And, we thought we knew it all . . . .

Of course, Bob and I expected to learn a few tricks to ensure our train ride was as comfortable and enjoyable as posssible. We just did not expect that the learning curve would extend throughout the entire trip. Here are a few tidbits that we found useful and interesting:





1. Always check baggage: Even though our largest suitcase of the two we took weighed a mere 30 lbs. and the other 15 lbs., lugging those two up stairs and into compartments builds muscles. We even checked a small duffel bag and only carried on a small tote, even for night rides. Nothing over 50 lbs. are allowed - no way, no how - we saw people throwing stuff out of their suitcases to reach the under 50 lb. limit.





LESS IS BETTER . . . Take 1/4 of what you think you need. I cut ours in half and we could have been just as styling with half of that.



Unless you are into learning the art of folding clothes. I'd rather learn oragami.



And, now knowing that Bob was perfectly happy wearing his special blue shirt for the entire trip. (I just found a picture from our trip to Florida years ago wearing the same shirt.)





2. Women's Lounge/ Dressing Area: Biggest and best secret. The area is roomy and the toilets stay cleaner. Not all trains have this special area. Ask the conductor or attendant





3. Freight companies own the rails: Since the freight trains rule, Amtrak is obliged to move over and allow the freight trains to pass. So, depending on the freight schedules and delays Amtrak follows their orders.





4. Security is not a concern: There are no screenings. But, on the commuter run from Seattle to Portland, a law enforcement officer and a K-9 labrador walked the aisles. Coincidentally, as they passed our seats, I was reading an article in USA Today about security checks on that particular run.



5. The attendant's job is to attend: The conductor's job is to supervise and collect passenger tickets. If you reserve sleeping rooms, you are privileged to be welcomed on board by your attendant. He or she will ATTEND to all your needs, i.e. dinner reservations, water, coffee, newspaper, preparing the beds, and answering all your questions. They will also 'go get' whatever you want, including meals. The attendants also attend to cleaning toilets, dumping trash, and whatever attending needs to be done.



We did not ask for a demo of what the roomette had to offer, but on our last ride, PJ gave us one. It would have been helpful on night one, but we thought we knew it all . . . and, Charlie was very busy. These attendants tend to run a lot. Those with smiles, goodies, and a 'can do' attitude collect well-earned tips that supplement their 6 days on (that's 24 hours a day) and 8 days off wages.



6. Overnight train trips are not like home: If you want home, stay put, or travel in a recreational vehicle. The train's job is to get from one point to another sometime. Just like the track isn't always smooth, the amenities of train travel are a bit bumpy, too. Maybe that's just like home, too.



Although, we heard throughout our trip that the Canadian Railroad experience - not the expensive tour train - but the one for ordinary folks- was A+. Four star food, cloth tablecloths, candy, fruit, drinks available throughout the train, movies and games for the passengers, etc. The beds were just as narrow and the shower was down the hall for all sleepers.



7. Community Dining was a delight: If given a choice, I always choose to eat by myself or with people I know in a communal setting like a cafeteria. I've learned to change my ways. Seating meals on a train is always community seating. For every meal in the dining car we met other couples, and one single, to share conversation and break bread together.



Since most of train travel is quiet and alone with whoever you boarded with, the chance to be social comes with meals - or hanging out in the bar car. Bob and I found ourselves looking forward to eating time not only because the food was good - and it was, but wondering who we would meet and learn from for the next hour or so.



We didn't meet any grumps. Most were older couples visiting kids, taking an extended holiday, or just loved trains.



For example, during our last dinner on the train from Reno to Salt Lake we met a couple from Ohio. The man's father had worked for the railroad his entire life and John had literally been born on a train. He hated flying, loved train travel and could sleep like a baby while riding the tracks.



Their trip would end in 30 days, they only had a week or so left. Here's what they had done: Road the Canadian Railroad from Toronto, ON, to Vancouver, BC, hopped off and enjoyed an Alaskan cruise through the inland passage. Rented a car in Seattle and drove down the coast and over to Yosemite (they were very impressed). They were on their way to Vail, CO, for a few days and then getting back on the train for home. They had stories, we had stories, and so did everyone we sat across from.

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I asked Bob for some input on what he had learned on this 45 day trek:
"I learned that the railroad tracks need to be smoother."

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I also learned again that Bob is happiest when he is moving on down the road. My one big surprise of the trip was how he was able to keep his mojo on track. He is, too. I have always known that to say no to fun is a mistake and that belief has been reaffirmed one more time on the Train Ride of 2010 with Bobby.