The Road Linds Travels

Train travel has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the early 19th century when Richard Trevithick, an English engineer, built the first steam-powered locomotive called the “Penydarren.” It successfully hauled iron and passengers in Wales. This was followed by George Stephenson’s “Locomotion No. 1” in 1825, which became the first steam locomotive to carry passengers on the Stockton and Darlington Railway in England.

The railway network expanded rapidly across Europe, North America, and other parts of the world during the 1830s-1860s. In the United States, the “Golden Spike” ceremony marked the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad in 1869, connecting the East and West coasts. This period also saw technological advancements, such as improvements in steam locomotives, construction techniques, and signaling systems.

The late 19th century witnessed the introduction of luxurious and opulent passenger trains, such as the Orient Express, providing comfortable and extravagant travel experiences that you can still enjoy today. The advent of electric and diesel locomotives in the early 20th century brought greater efficiency, reliability, and speed to train travel.

THE RISE OF THE AUTOMOBILE

However, the rise of automobiles and airplanes in the mid-20th century led to a decline in train travel’s popularity in many regions. In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in train travel due to its environmental advantages, high-speed rail projects, and scenic railway journeys.

High-speed rail systems have been developed in various countries, with Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet train) inaugurated in 1964 as the first successful high-speed rail system. I had the pleasure of experiencing Japan’s Shinkansen in late 2017. My mind was blown as to how America hasn’t fully hopped on the bullet train movement (pun intended).

High-speed rail networks now exist in several countries, including France, Germany, China, and Spain, offering rapid and efficient transportation over long distances. Maybe, one day, America will get on board. Ok, I’ll stop.

Today, train travel continues to be an important mode of transportation, offering convenience, sustainability, and an enjoyable way to explore the world. Advances in technology, infrastructure, and comfort continue to shape the future of train travel.

AMTRAK TRAIN TRAVEL

Amtrak is the national intercity passenger rail service in the US, established in 1970 to address the decline of passenger rail travel. The corporation faced challenges in its early years but made improvements to modernize and revitalize its brand. Amtrak has since undergone route cuts, financial reform, and modernization efforts to provide more attractive and efficient train travel options for passengers.

It was right before the pandemic that I began taking Amtrak more often. The freedom train travel allowed was wonderful. A quick trip halfway to San Diego and back sans car? Yes, please. Not to mention the affordability, especially with the continuously rising gas prices. And if you live in Southern California, gas prices are particularly deterring.

Today, Amtrak connects communities, promotes sustainable travel, and allows passengers to explore destinations throughout the country.

PRO TIPS FOR AMTRAK TRAIN TRAVEL

I’d like to share a few insider tips for the next time you decide to opt for the locomotive instead of the automobile or airplane! First, let it be known that I have absolutely no partnership with Amtrak. I’m simply happy to share tips to make your first or next train trip as smooth as possible. After all, this is The Road Linds Travels! What kind of blog would I be if I only shared links and tips because I got some sort of commission for it? Not a good one, in my opinion.

Ok, let’s get into it:

• • The sooner you book, the cheaper. However, sometimes, you can find even cheaper seats right before the trip because they’re trying to fill otherwise empty seats.
• • The odder the hour, the cheaper it may be, as well.
• • Sometimes, business class is even cheaper than coach. You get more room and comfort for less $$. Coach seats are plenty comfy, though!
• • Find out which direction the train is traveling, and be sure to face forward if you easily get motion sickness. Some of the seats will have passengers seated with their backs toward the direction in which the train is traveling.
• • Sit in your assigned seat class unless you enjoy being publicly humiliated by train conductors tired of telling people nicely that they’re in the business class car when they should be in the coach.
• • Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) to enjoy on the train. Save some money, and eat/drink better than what’s served in the snack car. It also means you don’t have to get up from your seat and wait in line to fetch stale pretzels and beer.
    • • • • Note that I can’t speak to the dining service that you receive when booking a roomette on Amtrak. I will be sure to amend and add a separate blog when I finally do reserve a room.

• • I’ve never seen anything remotely close to the security in airports at Amtrak train stations. This doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen, but in all of my train rides, I’ve never witnessed drug-sniffing dogs or metal detectors. However, Amtrak does have a list of prohibited items, so be sure to review them prior to your trip.
• • Take advantage of the Observation Car – these cars typically have panoramic windows for stellar viewing, and they’re open to everyone. I’ve even seen people sit in the Observation Car for the entire trip rather than their assigned seat.
• • If you’re going to check your baggage or leave it unattended, invest in some good locks to deter potential thieves. Better yet, don’t leave your baggage unattended. Most cars have substantial overhead baggage storage so long as you’re not bringing your entire closet.
• • • Bring a great book or other form of entertainment, particularly for nighttime journeys. After all, hands-free travel is the best kind of travel, am I right? And no, I’m not talking about autonomous cars.

PRIME PEOPLE-WATCHING EXPERIENCE

If you’re anything like me, you enjoy people-watching. In fact, it’s one of my favorite pastimes, especially when I’m traveling by myself. Train travel allows for the optimal people-watching experience. Just think about it. If you’re on a particularly long route, you will most likely make several stops along the way. Think different cities, states, rural areas, and big cities.

I’ve seen things that piss me off (though I’m happy to report that those sightings are rare), and I’ve seen things that make me sad. I’ve seen things that make me smile, and I’ve seen things that make me curious. Below was one of my favorite snapshots I got while traveling through Japan. I was at a train station in Kyoto when I noticed this young couple playing a game of “I see you” on either side of a pole. It was endearing. I mean, c’mon, who doesn’t appreciate young love?

Need I say much more about train travel? It’s such a magical experience that everyone should put it on their bucket list or make it their routine choice of transportation, if possible. Because, well, it’s better for the planet, and we’ve only got one of those! Until next time, feel free to hit me up with any Qs or train travel tips of your own. All aboard, and thank you for choosing The Road Linds Travels.