I figured I would write a review sooner rather than later. Being someome that has been on many metrorail trains in her lifetime, from taking the metro in Miami and DC to the subway in NYC and Chicago, I have to say that this was by far the most pleasant experience I have had. I mean the DC metrolines were pretty darn clean, like they must have workers cleaning up debris non stop. What made this experience extra special were the people I met beforehand that greeted me. There was an older gentleman at the main door talking to them and then two other gentlemen whom I assume had been conductors because they had the uniform and garb on. One even had a really nice American flag style bow tie that I complimented him on. They were both really helpful and I shared a little bit about my story of how I got to Saint Albans, VT and where I was from oeiginally as one had inquired. It's a long story Anyhow, the one conductor with the nice bow tie took the time to guide me atep by step on how to purchase a ticket. I almost missed the ticket buying timeframe window as he kindly informed me that somwtimes the system won't allow guests to purchase a ticket within 15 minutes of departure time, but he told me the train wasn't that packed so I should be ok. It was very easy. I downloaded the app, inputted some minor details about myself, and then added a credit card, and purchased a single rider ticket. I had no clue you could bring pets onboard so I found that pretty neat:) A QR code populated upon reservation confirmation which he then scanned and then I hopped on and choose my seat freely. He encouraged me to sit by the door all the way down towards the restrooms as he told me that is the door that open for the next stop which was Essex Junction. I was on my way heading to Burlington to pick up a rental car for my next move.
Once aboard, I felt like a brand new baby out of the womb LoL because I really was cooped up in my home in Saint Albans, VT as I didn't have a car (so silly me I should have researched the area better prior to moving, but the duplex I was in sufficed and I got a small taste of Vermont life. I do wish I could have tried Woodstock, VT or Jeffersonville, VT or even visited Winnoski but I am happy I got to try creemes and go to Burlington once or twice either while dating or just sight seeing.
The ride itself was very smooth. The air itself was almewhat chilly but not unbareable. They had track lightinf down the aisle. The seats were so big and comfy and cushiony. I felt like I was in the VIP section:) not the Coach. If Coach was that nice, I can only imagine what business class is like^_^ I got to get a glimpse pf the Vermont countryside while in my window seat (hence the video I took) and see some farms and agricultural land and Vermont homes. It felt like I was on a plane actually and being someome who hasn't flown in AWHILE and I meam awhile...i think since 2022 when I moved from Miami to Philly in October, so it was strange for me to be out in civilization on an Amtrak train. I can't recall if the train I took in Philly to Willow Grove, PA was Amtrak when I lived there in 2022-2023, but I definitely would have remembered because this experience was mothing like that one. This ride was ten times better. If they added like nice background music or maybe like a news broadcast, it would be grade A perfection:p I feel grateful this train ride was available last minute because I was pressed for time since I was kind of in a pickle trying to find rental cars for my move to the Midwest.
If I were ever in the area again, I would be sure to use the train. I will say that once off the train after reaching the Essex Junction stop, I was a bit confused as to where I was located. I tried to follow along the train's route/path on my Google Maps because as it would move along the mal as we were moving but I did get a bit confused once off the train, because it was the transfer point to be picked up by the bus. I had to kind of scout around for the bus stop that would take me to Burlington but I eventually did. I ended up taking a Lyft which arrived rather quickly, but I definitely recommend the Amtrak train. The staff was stellar as well and offered great customer service. I feel bad though that they wiuld have stand long hours outside greeting guests and scanning tickets (maybe someone can give them a stool or a chair to help relieve their knees) but either way, it was a wonderful experience and a service I wish I utilized sooner read more