- Joined
- Feb 17, 2022
- Messages
- 2
I just returned home (Louisville, KY) this afternoon from Chicago. I flew to Seattle on Monday and stayed overnight. The #8 Empire Builder was supposed to leave Seattle Union Station. We learned our train was delayed until 8 pm. We didn't board the train until 10:00 pm. So, #8 remained 7 hours behind the entire trip. This was my first time and I benefitted greatly from the advice I got on this forum. I was a single in a roomette and quickly realized I could use the top bunk to store my backpack and small suitcase (they would never have fit in the room) I slept very well both nights. I enjoyed the dining car and particularly chatting with people around me, not to mention both servers who were there at every one of the six meals. I was surprised by how wonderful it was just sitting in my chair in my roomette and watching the scenery go by. I had read many comments about this but thought to myself I will get bored with that. I never did! We had fewer stretch breaks because of the delay but I took advantage of them. I wouldn't have bothered with the breaks if I had not read so much about them on here. My attendant was courteous, helpful, and always willing to engage me when he walked by and asked when I would like my seats made into the lower bed. Because of the advice on here, I made sure I boarded the train with cash in the correct denominations so that I could tip at meals and tip the attendant at the end of the journey. I settled on $20 per day in the dining car and $50 for the trip with the attendant. Again, I would not have known what was appropriate without the advice from here. This forum really helps new passengers feel more comfortable and aware of the particularities of sleeper train travel. A few final thoughts: 1. I thought I would be able to buy snacks near the train station. My search was fruitless. I had been warned on here that there were no services in the station. 2. I bought a regular razor with me. Next time it will be a cordless one. This was nerve-rattling on a moving train. 3. Taking a shower on a moving, lurching train was a surreal experience. Even with the difficult beginning (ten hours in that Seattle station), it was a great trip and a great experience. I next will want to try the CZ. Thanks again for the advice. I hope I can help with new travelers soon.
