- Joined
- Jun 17, 2010
- Messages
- 12
Hello!
I typically take the train from Providence to NYP a few times a year, and due to the experience, and now considering taking the train from Providence to HUN (Huntington, WV). At my age, it would be better for me to break it up in two days, as the schedule from Amtrak.com, would have me leave at 21:xx (9:xx pm), getting to DC, and then leaving early to HUN on the 51 Cardinal. Breaking it up in two days would be approximately 7 1/2 hrs to WAS, then 10 1/2 to HUN. If I drove, it would be 13 hours (broken in two days, as I would not want to drive that in one day), and does not account for traffic. For me, it is pretty much the same. So here are my questions if I may ask:
- Has anyone taken the Cardinal before? Any insight? This would be my first long train trip. Is it worth it?
- Are there meals onboard? I am not getting a sleeper car, and would be getting two coach tickets.
- Is it possible to pre-board in DC? My wife had medication that requires refrigeration (small cooler with ice), and it would be better for us to get on early, settle in if possible, and not disturb other passengers.
- Is one side better than the other for a view?
- Once in route, can we both leave our seats (is there a marker?), or do we have to alternate when we leave?
- Is there a place to store our luggage? We would have four bags. 2 regular size suitcases, 1 carry on, 1 backpack.
- How is the condition of the train? I understand Amtrak is operating in the red with federal subsidies, so I am curious if they are able to perform upkeep.
- Is it possible to hop out and take pics of the different stops, or is it quick and fast?
- Any other advice? (Oh, looking to go in September)
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!
I typically take the train from Providence to NYP a few times a year, and due to the experience, and now considering taking the train from Providence to HUN (Huntington, WV). At my age, it would be better for me to break it up in two days, as the schedule from Amtrak.com, would have me leave at 21:xx (9:xx pm), getting to DC, and then leaving early to HUN on the 51 Cardinal. Breaking it up in two days would be approximately 7 1/2 hrs to WAS, then 10 1/2 to HUN. If I drove, it would be 13 hours (broken in two days, as I would not want to drive that in one day), and does not account for traffic. For me, it is pretty much the same. So here are my questions if I may ask:
- Has anyone taken the Cardinal before? Any insight? This would be my first long train trip. Is it worth it?
- Are there meals onboard? I am not getting a sleeper car, and would be getting two coach tickets.
- Is it possible to pre-board in DC? My wife had medication that requires refrigeration (small cooler with ice), and it would be better for us to get on early, settle in if possible, and not disturb other passengers.
- Is one side better than the other for a view?
- Once in route, can we both leave our seats (is there a marker?), or do we have to alternate when we leave?
- Is there a place to store our luggage? We would have four bags. 2 regular size suitcases, 1 carry on, 1 backpack.
- How is the condition of the train? I understand Amtrak is operating in the red with federal subsidies, so I am curious if they are able to perform upkeep.
- Is it possible to hop out and take pics of the different stops, or is it quick and fast?
- Any other advice? (Oh, looking to go in September)
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!