Anyone take the new Amtrak from DC to Orlando, where you can bring your car?

Yes I've taken the auto train twice, both times from Lorton to Sanford. What do you want to know?

It takes a long time.

It’s not new

New? It's like 50 years old. Costs a ton of money but it's a lot more relaxing than driving or flying. Get a private room, download a bunch of stuff from Netflix and bring a cooler of drinks and snacks.

We did it for the first time in November. Definitely better than driving, though it was more expensive.* We "splurged" and got two, two-person roomettes - tiny little spaces that during the day are two seats facing each other and then are made up into bunk beds. The kids (older teens) took one and my DH and I took another. My DH clambered into the top bunk. I thought having a bed would mean a decent night of sleep lulled by the rocking train motion. But somehow no, not a great night of sleep. (maybe I need better pillows? (though we brough onto the train with us from the car and Ikea bag with extra pillows and blankets).

*we did not book early enough for the cheapest prices Thanksgiving week.

*also, PLENTY of people don't book the room options and just spend the night in the slightly reclined open train. This option can be pretty cheap. I'm not sure I'm up for it, though I have a friend who swears by it, they bring a cooler with snacks and drinks and play cards and have a good time.

Another * this reminds me a funny story one of my college friends used to tell about taking the train. She'd go into all these little funny stories and then always end: "worst night of sleep in my life: and I camp with Girl Scouts!"

We did it over a summer for 3 and 5 year old and it was amazing. Our kids were into trains at the time, we could pack as much as we wants in the car. Food and drinks included with sleeping bunks. I worked out as about even with flying and car rental, but we enjoyed the experience

Longest night of my life.

Anonymous wrote:Longest night of my life.

Why? We are considering an overnight train in Europe this summer but reviews on this thread have me questioning that.