Post #236776 by thejab on Thu, Jun 8, 2006 1:17 PM

Generally, the train is more expensive then flying, even if you go coach. There are exceptions: sometimes of the year special fares are avialable, and you can get rail passes as well. A room adds quite a bit to the cost. The lowest cost private rooms are small and cost almost as much as a hotel each night in addition to the coach fare. Only go by train if you are not in a hurry, and are willing to pay for the experience of classic rail travel (as close as it gets these days). I've taken Amtrak across the country a few times. The last trip was Oakland to New Orleans in the late 90s. The train is fast in some parts (like the desert) but slow-going in and out of cities and in mountains, and sometimes it stops for long times to let freights pass. This can be annoying for some people. I don't mind, I just bring a good book, my travel bar, and relax. The food is fair to good, if there is a dining car where meals are prepared from scratch on the spot, but much better then airline food, and dining in the diner can be a unique pleasure. Also, meals are included with a room purchase, and you can have the meals served to you in your room if you wish. And the lounge car is a great place to meet other people.