All aboard!

The end of this year has me taking three trips by train, specifically on Amtrak. The first was a few weeks ago for an overnight in Washington, DC to see family. The second is tomorrow, heading back to Union Station in Washington, then on to Rockville, MD by Metro for a week of work. The third is back to Rockville in January, also for work.

I had forgotten how nice it is to travel by train - the coach seats are comparable to business class on a plane, and you don't need to stay buckled in the whole time. The bathrooms are big and usually clean, you can buy food (although it's not that great), and there's free wifi. I almost wish it was a longer trip! From central NJ, it's a less than three hour trip - far less stressful than driving, and by the time you factor in parking costs, also way cheaper. I'ma also spoiled because I live 10 minutes from the closest Amtrak stop.

While Amtrak is nice, it could be far far better - take a look at European trains and you'll see we have a long way to go.  Regardless, I will still enjoy my upcoming trips.