Comparing Amtrak Train Travel to Flying

Imagine travel without jet lag, cramped seating with no leg room, turbulence, and the hassle of getting through airport security. Imagine being able to see the landscape roll by out the window rather than just looking down at featureless cloud tops from 35,000 feet or not being able to see anything at all. Train travel is America's lost form of transportation, but is still the ideal choice for travelers who want to experience their trip rather than merely just arrive at their destination.

Apparently, Americans sacrifice a lot to get to their destination faster. By being crammed in an airplane where most passengers don't have a view, travel becomes only about getting from origin to destination. The flight isn't a positive experience, but becomes just a hindrance in getting to the destination. The travel time by train is acceptable for those travelers who want to take more time to really experience their trip. It takes three days to get from Boston to Los Angeles.

When you step aboard an Amtrak train, the first thing you notice is that the train seats have significantly more legroom than airplane seats. And each pair of seats is next to its own large window. Additionally, each train has a lounge car with tables, so that families and friends can socialize and interact in a non restrictive atmosphere. The cross-country routes have viewing cars with floor to ceiling windows, so you can see the vast prairies, canyons, deserts, and mountains as you pass through them. Having the freedom to get up at will and socialize easily beats flying. Another deal breaker is that many train trips are half the cost of flights.

Next time you're planning a trip in the U.S, consider traveling by train, where you can experience the duration of the trip rather than just getting to your destination.