Additional Coverage:
- I paid $500 for a private room with 2 beds and a toilet on a 30-hour Amtrak ride. Take a look inside. (businessinsider.com)
From the Big Apple to the Sunshine State: A Look Inside Amtrak’s Coziest Private Cabin
Ever wondered what it’s like to traverse the East Coast by rail, all while enjoying the comforts of a private space? A recent 30-hour Amtrak journey from New York City to Miami offered just that experience, with a reporter opting for the most affordable private cabin available: a $500 roomette.
The reporter, who previously had no experience with overnight train travel, embarked on this extensive journey in October 2021. The goal was simple: a bed and a private space for the long haul.
Ingenious Design in a Compact Space
Measuring in at approximately 22.75 square feet, the roomette proved to be a masterclass in tiny living. It featured two beds, a toilet (in the initial cabin), and essential amenities, all cleverly integrated to maximize every inch. The cabin felt less like a train compartment and more like a miniature hotel room, thanks to its smart storage solutions.
Upon entering the private room, located after a stroll down a narrow corridor and through three sleeper cars, the reporter discovered a well-organized space. Two seats, a pull-down bed above them, and a table greeted them.
The seats themselves could also convert into a second bed. This setup offered a significant upgrade from standard coach seating, providing a dedicated private area.
Privacy was further enhanced by a sliding, lockable door and blinds on the windows. The room’s design incorporated clever features, reminiscent of tiny homes, such as a pull-out table between the chairs with two foldout leaves, ideal for working on a laptop.
Hidden Amenities and Unexpected Luxuries
Some roomettes, including the reporter’s first cabin, came equipped with a hidden toilet, discreetly tucked away behind a side table that swung open. Above this, a folding sink and mirror completed the private wash-up station. The lack of a privacy curtain around the toilet made solo travel a welcome convenience in this particular configuration.
Mid-journey, a cabin switch was necessary due to availability, leading to a roomette without a private toilet. For this portion of the trip, a shared bathroom at the rear of the sleeper car was utilized.
The cabin surprised the traveler with its diverse lighting options, surpassing what one might expect in an economy airplane seat. Even more unexpected was the ability to control the roomette’s temperature with a dial and air conditioning vents, allowing for a comfortable 66 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the journey.
Dining Car Delights and a Night’s Rest
Dinner was included with the ticket and served in the dining car. The reporter enjoyed braised short ribs, mashed potatoes, and a hard roll. While the meal as presented wasn’t a personal favorite, a creative transformation into a sandwich elevated the experience.
After dinner, it was time to prepare for the night. The roomette’s seats folded down to create a bottom bed, and a second bed descended from the ceiling. The reporter opted for the top bunk, finding the provided blankets, surprisingly soft and comfortable.
Despite some initial unsettledness from the train’s movement, a dim blue light on the wall proved to be a comforting feature, reminiscent of a favorite night light at home. This subtle glow, combined with the morning views from the top bunk, helped distract from the confined space and added to the overall travel experience.
A Journey Worth Repeating
As the 30-hour journey neared its end, the roomette, while small, continued to impress with its efficient use of space. The reporter concluded that despite the snug quarters, they would readily book this accommodation again. However, for those seeking more room to spread out, the larger Amtrak bedroom was recommended.