Multiple questions about AMTRAK!!?

Question

Ok...Anyone who has used amtrak may answer...and i cheacked the website already so please don't tell me to go there...

1. Can you sit by yourself on the train? How?

2. Are there people stationed nearby to help if you have a problem? If not, where can you find them?

3. How do you know if you're booking for a "quiet car"?

4. Do you generally get cellphone service on the train?

5. How can you find out about fares and prices?

6. Do they announce which station they're pulling into?

7. Is first class really expensive?

8. How do you let the people know if you have special needs?

Thank you so much for answering my questions!

Answer 1

1. Yes you can sit by yourself on the train.  Get on early, and grab an empty seat with no one next to it.

2. No but people do come around to check your ticket.  You may ask them then or go to the car where they stay anytime during the ride.

3. You don't book the quiet car.  You simply get to the station and when you choose your seat : make sure it is in the quiet car.

4. Yes, unless you go under tunnels.

5. Sorry, I'm not sure on that one.

6. Yes they do, and it says it on a screen as well.

7. No, it's not too much more than coach.  It's about the same ratio as on a plane.

8. Um, sorry idk.

Sorry I could only answer 6/8 but I hope these help!

Have a good trip.

Answer 2

Hello, I am a regular Amtrak user and will try to adress your question in order. 1. Yes, you can but only if there is plenty of room available, as in not during the holidays. better be willing to make a new friend with your seat mate. 2.Yes, Amtrak is very helpful and attentive both onboard and in the stations. 3.Only the Northeast Coridor and a few routes on the west coast offer such a thing as a quiet car and it is on a first come first seved basis in most cases. 4.Yes, but just like in a car it all depends upon the area. Keep in mind that trains usually travel along rural areas where cell service may be limited. 5.I prefer the website, just take the time and type in your info and you will find it is really accurate. The automated phone system is rough to use unless you are patient so if calling in say "agent" in order to speak to a live person 6. Yes, announcements are generally made more than once but it is also your responsibility to be aware of your progress and location. 7.On Amtrak first class often just means a slightly bigger seat, a newspaper and a soft drink. I recommend the basic coach class which is still quite comfy and a better value. 8. Advise the station agent as they can help accomodate you with priority boarding, seating nearer to exits & restrooms etc. Good Luck!