Just curious, from were to where will you travel, how long does it take and how much does it cost?
Anyone out there take Amtrak regularly / daily? Im starting a new job soon that will have me on Amtrak every day any tips? Things to look out for? Deals or reward credit cards I should be using? Am I going to hate my life?
Just an option, but if you're in the burbs, can you drive part way and take the regional rail in? Like say drive to Trenton?
Does a monthly pass guarantee you a seat?
All this info is second-hand from co-workers...
Amtrak has some type of frequent rider program (Guest Points maybe?) - once you've accumulated enough points you get access to the Acela lounges and on the NYC end if you have lounge access I think you get to board earlier than the hoi polloi.
AAA members get 10% off some Amtrak tickets. There's also a Chase credit card that gives you bonus points on Amtrak purchases. Don't know if it's worthwhile but might want to research.
I'm told the pass is only a bargain if you absolutely ride 20 days in a month. If you can wrangle one day a week work from home... Others say if you buy a series of 14-day advance tickets it's cheaper than the monthly pass, but you lose the flexibility of just getting on any train like you have with a monthly pass.
Some people do a SEPTA-NJT to NYC which is cheaper but longer and less reliable - but if money is key, it's an option.
Philly-NYC, 1:15 to 1:30 each way depending on the train, monthly pass is just under $1400. I'll be able to incorporate that commute into my work day and not actually be in the office a full day, so my full door-to-door day will be a little less than my last job (which was an hour drive commute + 9 hr day). And yes - where I live now + that Amtrak pass costs less than living in a comparable house anywhere near NYC.
I just came across this old thread and realized what a close call it was that you were not on the train that derailed in Philly. Glad you're OK.
Philly-NYC, 1:15 to 1:30 each way depending on the train, monthly pass is just under $1400. I'll be able to incorporate that commute into my work day and not actually be in the office a full day, so my full door-to-door day will be a little less than my last job (which was an hour drive commute + 9 hr day). And yes - where I live now + that Amtrak pass costs less than living in a comparable house anywhere near NYC.
I complain about $130/month to ride the bus into downtown where I am at...