Where to sit with a group on the NE Regional?

[Mark P]

Hello all,

I will be traveling with a group of 10 on train 134 this Friday, from WAS to NYP. I'm trying to figure out the best place we can all sit together, but I realize there aren't a lot of options. On past trips, I have seen seating layouts on the NE Regional that are 2 rows of seats facing each other (one set of 4 on each side). If my group could get those spots, I believe we will be able to get everyone together and make the train ride much more social. My question is, where are these seats usually found? Front of the train? Back? Does this seating configuration only appear once, or in every car? I don't think we want to sit in Cafe Car with the tables, in case anyone was thinking that. Thanks for any advice!

 

[NS]

The quad seats that face each other are found at one end of each car.

 

[the_traveler]

I live on the northern 1/2 of the NEC, so between NYP and WAS may be different. I find the area that has the most available seats are the chars farther back. (Most people want to be towards the front and/or don't wasn't to walk the whole platform to board.) My suggestion is to try the last couple of cars.

 

[AmtrakBlue]

Since you're boarding at the starting point (or is this train coming from the south?), get to the gate early to be near the front of the line and you should be fine. You may also get a Red Cap who may be able to take your group out slightly ahead of the crowd.

 

[Mark P]

Good idea with the redcap service. How far before the departure time should I seek a redcap out? The train leaves 3:30 pm. Also, do I have to ask in a certain way to get him to move our group to the front of the line? I figured I'll be tipping him, what's the going rate for something like this, $20?

 

[the_traveler]

In WAS, the Red Cap desk is directly opposite the information desk in the center of the gate area. (By the baggage claim.) I would request a Red Cap at least 1 hour prior to departure.

They may tell you a time and place to meet them. Or they may take you right to the train. You will not have to stand in line at the gate.

The amount to tip is up to you. If you have bags, consider a tip of $1-$2 per bag or more.

 

[Mark P]

Gonna try the redcap option. Is there any special language I need to use to get him/her to escort our group onto the train before the general population? Do I just say "I have a large group and we'd like your help getting us onto the train to ensure we can sit together" or "Can you help my group with our bags" or something else?

 

[the_traveler]

There is no secret language or secret words to use. If you have bags, just say something like "I'd like assistance with our bags to get out to the train". If you have no bags, say something like "We have a large group of # people and would like assistance getting to the train".