And it says you need to transfer? Does it say what the supposed connecting station is, or what routes you’re transferring between? And is this through Amtrak.com, or your work booking system which we know screwed up the train numbering?
The work system that screwed up the train numbering. They have a phone number I'll call tomorrow to confirm it's a screwup.
Let's put it this way: If you can only take a roomette one way, take it on the trip back. Otherwise you'll be kicking yourself the whole way back in coach. If you can afford to take it both ways but aren't sure, take it on the trip out. Seven to two you upgrade back to a roomette somewhere before Richmond on your southbound trip...if it's available; otherwise see above (they frequently sell out).
The Roomette is worth it because of everything. You get your own completely private room which contains two seats that convert into a bed, another bed that slides down from the ceiling (each have a big window for taking in the scenery), a large table that folds out from the wall, and your own sink and toilet. There is complimentary coffee and juice in your car, an attendant who will provide free room service if you wish, fresh linens, turn down service, and the list goes on. So those are the big reasons why it’s worth it over coach.
It comes out to about $60 extra or something to take the Meteor, and for that you get four full meals in the dining car. When you take into account the fact that that also includes sides, beverages, and in the case of lunch and dinner, dessert, I think it’s a pretty good deal, even putting aside the fact that you get the unique experience of dining on the train.Appreciate you (and everyone) taking the time to break it down for me. I'm going to see if I can use a gift card through AMEX rewards for a modification. If I can, it's a no-brainer.
I highly recommend you check Amtrak.com instead, to make sure you’re seeing what’s actually going on.
Since prices primarily stem the remaining availability and how many people are getting tickets, it really depends. If you see a particularly good fare, it’s best to just snag it as quickly as possible.
Thanks, I'll do that. The price I want is not too near the dates I want, so I'll have to keep on it. You guys have made the roomette sound so good that I don't even know if I want to deal w/ coach at this point. Haha.
It's kind of strange how it works. There are a whole lot of different things they try to balance on any particular long-distance Amtrak train. Reservations will be required, and that gives a pretty good idea of how many cars they need to put in service.No, don't mind being next to anyone for an hour, two, three, four, five, six. I would prefer not to be for 25 straight hours, that's all.
I’m pretty sure Paul shut down Fare Watch because of all the bugs.
Motion on a train is not bad, at all, but it's...well, it's different. Better safe than sorry if you're not sure.
Actually, the sleeper cancellation policy if is 80% back (it’s a 20% fee). And if you modify a reservation to a lower fare, you actually get the full price difference back as an e-voucher (no fee). Of course, many Amtrak agents don’t understand this concept and will try to charge you a fee if you modify, but the policy is an e-voucher back with no fee.
Agreed. I’ve personally never had even the slightest issue with motion sickness on the train, even when I’ve been in the upper bunk of an upper-level roomette speeding over rough trackage. Not the slightest issue. I recognize that this may be different for someone else, but since there really aren’t any sudden bumps or movements on the train, it’s nothing like a car, bus, or even plane, when it comes to motion sickness.
A note: There is (at least) one power outlet in each sleeping car room, but it may not be positioned perfectly for your needs. A power strip with a surge protector is highly recommended...train power is generated on board (obviously) and generator power in general is notorious for being "noisy" to electronics.
Each Viewliner Roomette has exactly two outlets. They are right between the sink and the wall, so you definitely may want an extension cord and/or splitter, depending on how long your chargers are and how much stuff you plan on plugging in.
And while you’re at it, consider signing up for the Bank of America Amtrak Guest Rewards World MasterCard. With it you get
By all means, upgrade to a roomette if you can. It is worth it and you will find the trip relaxing and enjoyable!
I had the pleasure of riding the Meteor from NYP to Winter Park FL (WPK) last month. I was assigned the aisle seat, and the one takeaway would have been to have an extension cord for my phone. My cord was only long enough to put in my seatmates area under his tray, or it would have stretched across his lap. Otherwise I was very comfortable with the aisle.
