Why Drive when You Can Take Amtrak?

I have been traveling on Amtrak trains for about 10 years. My route is from New Rochelle, NY to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania's 30^th Street Station. The trip takes just a little over two hours. I prefer taking the train rather than driving for a couple of reasons. First of all, I don't have to worry about traffic. I can just sit back, relax, sleep or read. To get to Philadelphia by car, I would have to take the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike which is always very congested. Another way to go by car would be to take the George Washington Bridge which leads you right to the New Jersey Turnpike. The traffic going that way is even worse. The other reason why I like taking the train is that I don't have to worry about car trouble and getting stuck on the road. The ride is very smooth and comfortable which makes it very easy for a passenger to read, eat or sleep.

Amtrak is very affordable especially for me, because I get so many free tickets though out the year. I have the Amtrak Guest Rewards Master Card. For every dollar that I spend I get a point. If I buy an Amtrak train ticket, each dollar is worth two points. I use my credit card for almost every purchase so I accumulate points very fast. Not too long ago, I had accumulated about 17,000 points which entitled me to about five free tickets one way. I need 3000 points for a one way ride from NY to Philadelphia or vice versa.

The train is equipped with a bathroom in each car and drinking water in which cups are provided. There is a food café on each train which makes it very convenient for those who are traveling for a few hours or more. I have always found the personnel or ticket collectors to be very friendly and helpful at all times.

Amtrak has routes all over the United States. You can travel to so many places and just sit back and enjoy the ride. You can check out their destinations and schedules on their website at www.amtrak.com.

I don't know what I would do without Amtrak. I probably wouldn't travel as much to see my family because I would have to drive, and I don't like driving long distances. If you have never been on an Amtrak train, treat yourself and take a ride. You may never want to drive again.