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It's been twelve years since I've traveled on Auto Train, and I have a few questions. First, now that they serve meals in a real dining car (rather than the old "buffet line" that they used to use before they switched to Superliner equipment) is tipping expected, since meals are included in the ticket price? If so, what's the appropriate amount, since there are no prices on the menu to gauge a percentage? Also, does anyone have any insight as to how any of the recent cuts in services have impacted Auto Train, if at all? Finally, anyone know how their on-time performance has been? I'm a veteran of the Lake Shore Limited and Silver Meteor (our usual way of getting to FL) but on Auto Train, I recall the customs are different. (I fully expect to tip the sleeping car attendant as appropriate.) Thanks in advance for any help!
Amtrak207 Member # 1307
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No prices on the menus? Tipping is customary and expected of any service industry such as Dining Car service. Individuals who do not tip for service are depriving the servers of income that is expected to be there (somewhere around 8%?) that they still have to pay taxes on, whether or not it actually happens. You're eating in a restaurant. The only difference there is that the scenery is moving.
------------------ F40PH #757099-8 March 29, 1976-November 18, 2001 P42DC #53063 November 18, 2001-???
IronPirate Member # 1476
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There are no prices on the menu because there is no cost. All service on Auto Train is considered First Class. On time service, with a very few exceptions, has been excellent. Arrivals have usually been in advance of shown times. You can expect to ssit in Florence, S.C. at least 20 minutes every trip. It's built into the schedule. This is where the locomotives are fueled, cars watered, and train and engine crews swap out. There have been no real cutbacks to Auto Train service. Like I said, Amtrak considers it to be first class service. Also, you may expect up to 45 minute wait, if your car is the last off the train. There are waiting areas to relax in. Just sit back and wait to hear your car #. Most crowd up at one area and wait until they see their car come off.
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