I've been planning a trip in November to New Orleans for the annual meetings of the American Anthropological Association. The Sunset Limited from LA to New Orleans will take two days. I'm fine with that on the way to the conference, since that's probably when I'll be writing about my LA bike research for my talk. I definitely appreciate the fact that as a grad student engaged in fieldwork, my time is not so scheduled and I don't mind a long train ride. And coach tickets on Amtrak are cheap city. It will cost $136 to do that trip in mid-November. There's a big jump in price, though, if you want something more than basic coach. If I wanted a sleeping accommodation and meals, I'd have to add $324.
How come there's no middle ground? The Canadian rail system, VIA, has semi-private bunks and other combinations available. Amtrak only gives you a seat and no meals or a private room and all meals. I'd be happy to pay extra for a little bunk, but traveling alone it makes no sense to pay more than double the cost.
I wonder what led them to decide to offer only coach or roomettes and above on long distance trains.
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Perhaps it is motivated by the desire for money!!
ReplyDeleteI think what you're referring to is what were called "sections" in the pre-Amtrak days. Even in the later years of Pullman service, they were becoming rare. For a look at these accomodations, a visit to a railway museum or viewing an old movie such as "Some Like It Hot". If you're in Southern California, Orange Empire Ry. Museum in Perris has a classic heavyweight Pullman car on display, with one of the sections made up for overnight sleeping. For more information, you may refer to "oerm.org".
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