We are going to be first time Amtrak users on Monday leaving from New Orleans to San Antonio on the Sunset. Can anyone give me any tips, as to good things to bring on the train? Is it normally very cool? Is food expensive? that sort of thing
Tks Bourbs
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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I think we could be of greater assistance if you share 1) the Class of service, Coach or Sleeper, you will be using and 2) who, relationszhips and ages of minors, are in your party.
'Dinner in the Diner" is about $25 per adult head, complimentary food if traveling Sleeper, other meals proportionately less. A snack is about $5 each. Only you can be the judge if you consider that expensive. In terms of value, i.e. getting what you pay for, the Diner is the far better deal.
Lastly, that Amtrak timetable or web page you reviewed; it's a piece of "funny paper". While there is reasonable possibly your departure from New Orleans will be at the scheduled time, it is all bets off on your San Antonio arrival. There is simply so much freight traffic on the Union Pacific Railroad, whose lines your train uses, that an on time arrival is "impossible". If you are being met at the San Antionio station, be sure your meeting party frequently reviews the amtrak website for train arrival information or uses their automoated telephone Train Status feature tradenamed "Julie" (which incidentally is the recordist's given name).
Enjoy.
CoastStarlight99 Member # 2734
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Glad you decided to take the train, you should bring whatever entertains you for the length of your journey, playing cards, laptop, DVD player, ipod etc. I am assuming you are traveling coach since you mentioned food prices, The trains A/C and heater controls are hopefully controlled by someone that knows "just right" for passengers. As for food, you can download some of the menu's used on board here: http://www.amtrak.com/pdf/Dining_Car_Menu.r5.pdf , the price is not that bad, it may be a few dollars more expenxive for dinner then a normal restaurant, but it comes with sides, and a drink, so its really worth it.
Enjoy your trip!
chrisg Member # 2488
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Go to my home page and hit "Tips for Trainriders"
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions. It is soooooo very much appreciated. I was most worried about how cool it is on the trains as I really feel the cold, so the blanket tip was great. If anyone has any extra info on how cool or warm most of the trains are that would be much appreciated.
Blessings 2 all, Bourbs
dilly Member # 1427
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I've responded to this type of question before, so on the assumption that you'll be traveling in coach, I'll take the opportunity to dust off "Dilly's Coach Travel Tips" here.
You can make your trip more comfortable by taking:
1) pillow 2) light blanket (some cars can get fairly chilly at night). 3) ear plugs (you might end up being on the train all night, and some passengers "forget" that others are sleeping) 4) sleep mask 5) sandwiches and soft drinks (optional, but some people find Amtrak's food prices steep)
Also note:
Some seat cushions are more comfortable than others. If there are many empty seats when you board the train, try several before settling in.
If possible, pick a seat toward the center of the car for a smoother ride.
Don't leave electronic stuff (cell phone, CD player, camera, etc.) in plain sight when you leave your seat or go to sleep.
The cleanliness of the toilets can deteriorate as the hours go by. If the passengers in your car are slobs, find a better toilet in a less slovenly car. The toilets designed for handicapped people are larger, get used less, and tend to stay cleaner.
Eat at least one meal in the dining car (breakfast and lunch are the least expensive).
Whenever the conductor allows, get off the train at various stations en route (even if only for three minutes) to stretch and take in some fresh air. But stay near the train. Don't wander away.
Take a stroll through the other cars periodically. It's a great way to "people watch" and make new acquaintances.
As long as you're flexible about departure and arrival times, you'll have a great trip. Just don't forget to look out the window. That's what it's all about.
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