When I learned that taking a train leaves HALF the carbon footprint of flying/driving - I began using the train as my form of transportation for vacation.  I live in Atlanta, my family lives in Baton Rouge.  Is it slow?  Yes.  But, I prefer to think of it as leisurely rather than slow. 

The Benefits Of Train Travel I have noticed so far:

Taking the Amtrak is about 1/3 the cost of a plane ticket - and that's if I get a private "room" on the train; if I go coach - it's $85.  So it's budget friendly - even a private room - called a 'sleeper' - that rides 2 comfortably and has it's own toilet and sink - is only $45 more than coach!

Trains use less fuel and are more energy efficient than planes and cars. 

"Getting there" by train is a great part of the vacation.  You can go to the lounge car and meet really interesting people. Sometimes National Park Rangers ride and are ready with a wealth of information on the places you are passing and heading too and they give the kiddos a Jr. Park Ranger Badge!  You can read a book, knit, sleep and more while you leisurely await arrival to your destination.

You can check on 3 bags per person at no charge and you can carry on - well, as much as you can carry!  You can even bring your own cooler filled with healthy, nutritious food and stick to your PWA way of eating!

Nice views of landscape and scenery - although the views between Atlanta and New Orleans aren't what I'd call breathtaking, they say views on some of the more western and northern routes are phenomenal!

Other Useful Info On Train Travel:

I do find it preferable to have a sleeper rather than coach - that way you are the only person using the potty if that sort of thing kinda weirds you out (it kinda does me after 12 hours on a train with a hundred or so people).

Bring something to do for sure: a book, magazines, crossword puzzles - it is a long trip, you will find the need to keep your mind busy.

Definitely bring your own food - the food on a train is better than that on an airplane, BUT, it's still mystery food by and large.  Pack a cooler or you'll regret it.

Has anyone or Does anyone else on here ever take the train?  What do you think about it as a form of travel?  I LOVE it!