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- I’m a frequent passenger on Amtrak and have traveled in business class and coach. The best seat isn’t where you’d expect. (businessinsider.com)
Local Traveler Shares Secret to Stress-Free Amtrak Journeys: The Café Car
A frequent Amtrak passenger has revealed a surprising preference for the café car, touting its spaciousness, comfortable seating, and convenient amenities as superior to both standard coach and even business-class accommodations.
For those who regularly navigate the bustling East Coast corridor, Amtrak offers a welcome alternative to road travel, especially when dodging urban rush hour traffic. While many opt for the quiet car or splurge on business class, one seasoned traveler, Andrea McHugh, champions an often-overlooked section of the train: the café car.
“When available, I always sit in the café car on Amtrak trains,” McHugh states, emphasizing her consistent choice. This open-to-all section, which doesn’t require a special ticket, provides a unique set of advantages that make it her preferred spot for work and relaxation.
More Than Just a Snack Stop: The Café Car’s Hidden Perks
McHugh highlights several key benefits of the café car experience:
- Spacious Seating: Unlike the often-cramped coach or business-class sections, the café car offers booth-style tables with ample room. This allows passengers to comfortably set up laptops and notebooks, making it an ideal environment for getting work done on the go.
- Flexibility and Freedom: As the café car is accessible to all ticketed passengers, travelers can come and go as they please, a freedom not always afforded in other designated seating areas.
- Social and Practical Advantages: The table seating, often accommodating up to four people, is perfect for groups traveling together, fostering easy conversation.
For solo travelers, sharing a table offers the convenience of having someone keep an eye on belongings during quick breaks.
- Extensive Menu: Beyond the comfort, the café car lives up to its name with a comprehensive menu.
Passengers can purchase breakfast sandwiches, pastries, salads, cheeseburgers, and a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, and alcoholic options. This provides a convenient solution for those who prefer to eat on board.
Minor Hurdles, Major Benefits
While McHugh acknowledges a few minor drawbacks, such as the potential for more lively conversations and limited seating availability, she quickly offers solutions. Noise-canceling headphones effectively mitigate any auditory distractions, and the overall benefits far outweigh these small inconveniences.
“Overall, though, I’ve found the café car to be the best spot on the train and would recommend it to anyone who likes a little extra space without the price of a premium seat,” McHugh concludes. Her insights offer a valuable tip for fellow Amtrak travelers looking to enhance their journey without breaking the bank.