Subject: Amtrak
Date: Thu, 05 Nov 1998 19:09:23 -0800
From: oblagon@worldnet.att.net
To: steve@trainweb.com
I have just completed a cross country trip onboard AMTRAK's train no.1, the sunset limited. The trip was anticipated as an adventure, and we had a delux bedroom, the most expensive accommodations ($900.00) available. The trip was truly an adventure. We boarded in Orlando...at the decrepit station in an isolated, transient infested area. We had to taxi to the renovated Church Street area for restaurant service, then taxi back to the station for our train. Oddly, the train runs right past the Church street area on its way out of Orlando. Why not board in a nice area, rather than the derelict station 'down the tracks?' Typical AMTRAK stupidity. The coaches are new, and nice. The service personal, on average, are indolent, snotty and 'service' is completely foreign to their state of mind. Food service is not bad, but dumb gaps abound. The last night out of L.A. the dinner menu choice was CATFISH(!) or steak. For breakfast that morning, we were told there was no bread for toast. Mysteriously, there were sandwiches available for lunch. I have written a vitriolic letter to AMTRAK, and will actively advise friends and acquaintences to AVOID this fraudulent pretense of 'luxury' travel at sll costs. Although air travel isn't such a delight either, at least it's over much quicker. AMTRAK deserves to die.
SYD MEAD
