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- I’ve purchased Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass 3 times. Most rides are slow and uncomfortable, but I can’t wait to buy it again. (businessinsider.com)
All aboard for adventure! Amtrak’s $500 USA Rail Pass offers 10 trips across the country, and one travel enthusiast says it’s a must-try.
This writer, a Washington, DC resident, has already used the pass three times to explore the US. From the deserts of the Southwest, reminiscent of childhood cowboy movies, to the vast skies of New Mexico and the majestic Rockies, the rail pass has provided unforgettable journeys.
While the pass covers coach seats only, meaning no private rooms or showers, the writer emphasizes the affordability. A round-trip from DC to New Orleans alone can cost nearly the same as the entire 10-ride pass. The 30-day validity from the first ride allows ample time to explore over 500 destinations.
Comfort-wise, the seats recline, and dimmed lights on night rides offer a chance to rest. While the Wi-Fi can be unreliable, the writer sees this as an opportunity to disconnect and engage with the surroundings and fellow passengers. Conversations with diverse individuals, from New York City restaurant workers to Belgian newlyweds, have enriched the travel experience.
The unique vantage point of the train tracks, often traversing areas inaccessible by road, offers breathtaking views of nature and wildlife. For this writer, the USA Rail Pass has opened up affordable access to far-flung regions like the Pacific Northwest and the deserts between California and Texas, journeys they might not have otherwise undertaken.
While not luxurious, the USA Rail Pass offers a charming and cost-effective way to experience America’s diverse landscapes and connect with fellow travelers. For about $50 per ride, the chance to explore vast distances and meet people from all walks of life makes this pass a winner.