Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
pers are put aboard the train at major stops early every morning.
For example, the eastbound California Zephyr (train 6),
stops in
Omaha, Nebraska, at about 6:00 A.M., so sleeping-car passen-
gers will usually find a copy of the
Omaha World-Herald
under
their doors upon waking. I enjoy looking through these unfamil-
iar newspapers, since I'm probably passing through some of the
towns and cities they're writing about. Sometimes, instead of the
local paper, it will be a
USA Today
that's put aboard. Either way,
you'll feel in touch with what's going on in the world.
Listen to or Watch Electronic Gizmos
All sorts of audio and video materials are now available and can
be watched or listened to using any number of devices—everything
from children's stories to classic literature to old radio shows
from the '40s and '50s. This can be the best of both worlds. I
once sat gazing out the window of the Empire Builder
as it rolled
through the farm country of Minnesota and I listened to an audio
tape of Garrison Keillor spinning some of his wonderful yarns
about Lake Wobegon. (Note: Amtrak requires that you use ear-
phones with these devices.)
Do Puzzles or Play Games
Bring along a book of crossword puzzles. Most also include
other games: anacrostics, cryptograms, and other diabolical
word games. Bring a deck of cards (or buy a souvenir deck in
the lounge car) for solitaire or other card games with your trav-
eling companion or the new friends you made in the lounge car.
If you're traveling with children, by all means pick up a book of
games for kids in your hometown bookstore before you leave.
There are many available, and all will give you lots of new ideas
for games and other diversions you'll all enjoy.
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