by Debra Collins

Created on: December 31, 2006   Last Updated: February 07, 2010

You make the decision to head out on a vacation or any trip for what ever the reason. You have a starting point and a destination but what of the wonderful sights between. Traveling by rail gives that trip a different dimension then just boarding a plan. Even traveling by car or bus doesn't measure up the same because you're not confined to the interstates or major highways.

The pleasure of crossing the country affords you the luxury of seeing herds of wild horses running free along the tracks in Nebraska, buffalo grazing in the Bad Lands, the rich foliage and rolling hills of Pennsylvania or follow the winding greenbelt of Iowa and Missouri.

Train travel covers much of the same areas that the passenger trains of the past used to carry settlers and progress from one coast to the other.
Amtrak allows the traveler a relaxing, leisurely mode of transportation in a comfortable setting. Trains come with upper level seating and lower level accommodations as well. These cars have restrooms and drinking fountains throughout. Many trains also offer sleeper cars for longer trips. These sleeper cars have seats that fold down to make a bed and the cars offer an added luxury of showers and attendants along with restrooms and drinking fountains. I also noted there was fresh coffee brewing on the sleeper car.

With advance notice you can arrange for Red Cap Service to meet you as you pull into the terminal and this service provides a people mover to take you and your bags into the terminal to check your bags, go to meet another train or just to assist you in debarking from your trip.

Persons with disabilities may like to know that Amtrak can make your trip a comfortable one as well. Lower level seating can be arranged and there is also some areas for wheel chairs set aside. There are ramps and assistance available for the asking. Make sure you inquire about the companion rates for those traveling with someone to assist them. A 15% discount on companion tickets. Meal delivery to your seat can be requested of the car attendant at the time you purchase your ticket and upon boarding. To inquire about disability rates and arrangements you must call 1 800 872-7245, you can't arrange this on-line.

Meals are served from the Dining Car. Thee meals a day are served and they range from snack type foods, sandwiches and full meals from salad, main course to coffee and cheese cake. There is also a snack car in between times to offer up beverages, chips, cold sandwiches and an assortment

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