About Jim Loomis

Aloha! And thanks for stopping by. I started this site so I could write about train travel, which is, in my opinion, the only civilized way that’s left for us ordinary folks to see this or any other country. Over the past 25 years, I’ve traveled almost every long-distance train ride in North America — many of them multiple times — as well as numerous international routes. But since I’ve also visited more than 30 countries in Europe, Asia and the Pacific, I also write about travel in general, which is my very favorite thing to do.

I’ve been living in Hawaii for more than 50 years and during that time I’ve worked in public relations, was general manager of Honolulu’s minor league baseball team, was in charge of the Complaint Department for the City of Honolulu, and owned and ran an advertising agency that specialized in media for political campaigns. I sometimes write about what it’s like to live here because people are fascinated by this magnificent place. (I still am… even after half a century.) And, once in a while, when something outrageous happens in the world of government or politics, I’ll inflict my personal views on you. But mostly, it will be about trains and travel.

Since leaving Honolulu and retiring to Maui, I’ve spent more time at my freelance writing, and much of that has been about rail travel. My articles and columns have appeared in publications such as the Dallas Morning News, the Columbus Dispatch, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, and International Living and Family Motorcoach magazines.

I’m the author of “All Aboard! The Complete North American Train Travel Guide ” (Chicago Review Press), which is now in its 4th edition. You’ll find it in bookstores and in electronic editions as well. It can be ordered online directly from Chicago Review Press, which I encourage you to do, although you’ll also find it at the usual giant online bookseller sites.

More recently, I’ve had another book published. Its title is Fascinating Facts about Hawaii and you can order it directly from the publisher and, if you use the magic word, he’ll pay the shipping. There’s something about the book and how to get it on the blog.

I’m a member of the Rail Passengers Association and served on the board of directors. RPA, formerly NARP, has been around for 50 years and, with some 28,000 members, is the only active national organization advocating more and better and faster passenger trains.

Finally, I’m happy to respond to your questions about train travel. Just use this online contact form or email me at jim@trainsandtravel.com.