Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
into the details as you like, even selecting the specific trains you
want to take.
When the time comes to make the actual reservations, you
can work directly with an Amtrak reservations agent by calling
1-800-USA-RAIL. But don't just rattle off the trains you want—
ask the agents if they have any suggestions. Their tips can make
things go more smoothly all along the way. You'll find them very
helpful.
You should also consider turning your preliminary itinerary
over to a rail-savvy travel agent and letting him or her double-
check all the details, make suggestions, and then handle the actual
reservations. A good one can sometimes work out a lower fare
and will also know some tricks of the trade that could avoid some
hassles. For instance, he or she will probably be able to wait-list
you for a sleeping-car space on a sold-out train. Or make sure
you're booked into a sleeping car that's right next to the diner so
you won't have to walk through several cars on a moving train
three times a day for your meals.
In the good old days, the services of a travel agent came at
little or no cost to the traveler. Not anymore. Nowadays, you
can expect to pay a fee to the travel agent that's based on the
total cost of the booking. However, if your rail itinerary is at all
complicated, a rail-savvy travel agent can be a big help and will
probably be worth the money.
To learn how to find a train-smart travel agent—and, believe
me, not all of them are—and for a list of a few travel agencies
that specialize in train travel, see appendix D on page 341.
Customizing Your Train Trip
Can you do it yourself? Sure you can! Take a look at a map of
Amtrak's coast-to-coast system and start with the two basic ques-
tions: Where do you want to go, and how long can you be gone?
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