AMTRAK Coastal Starlight from Portland to Eugene, OR - full BUSINESS class train report (+lounge)

[@Islandicus]

At first, I wondered why the train was so empty. By the time you reached Eugene, I sort of figured out why! As a train lover, I would have loved this journey, delays and all. Thanks for showing us a part of the US we rarely get to see.

[@PlanetPatrick]

Thanks, Eoin. I had nowhere to be, to be fair, but this network is notorious for delays (some much worse than I encountered). But yes, it’s a landscape I’ve only ever flown over or scooted past and the train gives a gentle way to be in it and sense the scale of the great State of Oregon. As Chicken Lady said, the rolling stock is a little worn out, but I do love the observation car… next time maybe I’ll do the sleeping car and go the whole way to Los Angeles!

[@Islandicus]

@@PlanetPatrick That sounds like fun!

[@chickenlady3155]

Speaking as an armchair expert, whose entire expertise on the subject comes from consuming KZbin videos, the difference between the age and quality of rolling stock in the U.S. and comparable countries in East Asia and continental Europe seems quite marked. Also, great background music for a train journey!

[@PlanetPatrick]

Nice to see you here, Chicken Lady 🐓! Some European trains do still have a wonky business / first class offering but mostly things are a bit brighter and fresher than what I’ve seen from Amtrak so far. I’m glad you noticed the music… I tried reallly hard to make good choices!

[@krystalbowen16]

I don’t know how fast you drive but when I drive to Portland to Eugene it takes about 2 hours to 2 and a half. Thanks for the video I’m trying to figure out if I want to take a bus or train!

[@PlanetPatrick]

It was SO slow by train but really because of that delay. I have heard that delays are common due to a lack of alternative tracks. Good luck with your decisions!