Yes, I look like hell. FLL-LAX-SEA and now boarding to Vancouver!

Leg 1: Seattle to Vancouver

Today I am on the first leg of my journey on Amtrak  to Vancouver from Seattle (4 hours) and then an 8 hour return leg to Portland. This is the second time in so many months that I have taken Amtrak in the Northwest United States and I have thoroughly enjoyed a very civilized experience they’ve created for their passengers; with just an exception or two.

The Station Experience

The check in was a bit rough as the ticket agent had very basic customer service skills if any. No hello or smile was offered; just a request or grunt for my ID, which I find particularly irritating. I chose to exercise patience as I did not want to have my trip sabotaged by someone that I thought might be slightly unstable. I received my boarding pass and a roll of the eyes when I asked the location of the business class lounge. He just motioned to the exit leading to the street, adding that there was a bar across the way. Of course I located the tavern and was happily chugging a beer 5 minutes later, but really! I did not receive a ticket jacket or an offer to check my luggage. My friend Bobby had a completely different experience which was the antithesis of mine; totally pleasant and worthy of business class.

At the Gate

The staff at the gate was extremely pleasant and provided seat assignments as well as coupons for $3 off of beverages or snacks in the Bistro Car. I asked about checking one of my bags and was swiftly accommodated. These guys truly made up for the ticket agent at the main counter.

On Board

Something about Hefeweizen!

The conductors were very professional and courteous from the moment we boarded ; directing us toward our assigned car and also showed us space for our carry on bags.

The business class car of our Amtrak Cascades train was very comfortable. Outfitted in comfy leather seats with tray-tables in a 2-1 configuration, there were standard power-plugs (love those) and the speediest WiFi I have ever experienced on a train anywhere. I was able to instantly connect and maintain an uninterrupted connection on my iPhone and laptop (yes, I am addicted). Oh yes, it was complimentary in all compartments to each and every person. The condition of the cars was very good, much better than I expected these days.

And….the he fare was a deal at $56!

Leg 2: Vancouver to Portland (June 13th)

Related posts:

1. Jetiquette Tour Photo Gallery: Spring in Seattle Just a few shots of our time in gorgeous...
2. Japan’s newest, fastest train debuts Click to play video Japan’s latest bullet train, the...
3. Amtrak Acela This was my first chance to fly first class on...