For several years now, Amtrak has been in a cost-cutting mode. Any of us who ride regularly, especially in a sleeper on long-distance trains, are well aware of the lengths to which Amtrak has gone in order to save money. A classic example—one of many, I regret to say—is the complimentary hot coffee for…
Everyone knows that Amtrak has been in a cost-cutting mode for years now. I am of two minds about that. There is no doubt that the railroad is underfunded, but with the cold-hearted ideologues in Congress looking for every opportunity to criticize, Amtrak has had to show they’re doing everything possible to save money and…
There are a number of frustrating aspects to Amtrak’s dogged determination to eliminate ticket agents in x-number of railway stations across the country. I’m told that the main argument in defense of this policy is that “everyone buys their tickets on line now” . . . hence no need for a ticket agent. Sorry,…
I have always enjoyed Amtrak’s Coast Starlight, which runs daily in both directions between Los Angeles and Seattle. It’s a very scenic ride, but the main reason is the Pacific Parlour Car that’s part of the consist. But the Coast Starlight has become Exhibit A for examples of little perks and gestures that once…