Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
business class where you will get a somewhat more comfortable
seat and complimentary beverages (more about this later). There
is, of course, a surcharge for these extras.
The information and suggestions in the following pages will
help you plan a rail trip that's best suited to your individual pref-
erences and budget. While most of the examples discussed refer to
longer and more detailed itineraries, shorter rail trips deserve no
less attention. Whether you're considering a three-day excursion
through New England to admire the fall colors or a three-week
rail tour of the West, the planning process should be the same: as
thorough, as unhurried, and as far in advance as possible. After
all, any vacation requires an investment of your leisure time and
money, neither of which should be wasted.
Consider a Package Tour
This chapter is about planning your own train trip—it's fun to do,
and you can design it exactly the way you want. You should be
aware, however, that Amtrak offers a nice variety of rail tours of
varying lengths, which include train fare, hotels, and some sight-
seeing. These trips can usually be scheduled at your convenience,
and the cost could be a bit lower than if you had booked the
identical itinerary yourself. You are limited to the preplanned itin-
eraries, however. For information and a detailed brochure, call
Amtrak Vacations at 1-800-AMTRAK-2, or 1-800-268-7252.
You can also go to their Web site at www.amtrakvacations.com.
Amtrak's Frequent Rider Program
Just about everyone is familiar with the frequent-flier programs
initiated more than 25 years ago by the airlines. Amtrak has
something similar that they call their Guest Rewards program,
and it works pretty much the same way. You earn points for trav-
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