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We are going to Orlando from LA on Sunset #2 end of the month. We have two kids, one 3 year old and one 6 month old, and have never been on a train before.
I'm looking for some tips on what to bring on the train and what to do especially with the 6 month old. For instance, do they provide bottled water (for baby formula) or should I bring my own water? Any other tips?
BTW, we're in a family room.
Thanks in advance!
[This message has been edited by hate2fly (edited 10-16-2003).]
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What class of service do you plan to use; Coach or Sleeper?
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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I think the family room is the perfect choice for your needs. The beds will work well for you and your children and the room is large enough for your 3 year old to move around and play. You will be on the bottom level with windows on both sides. The restroom and showers are just steps away from your room. Meals (breakfast, lunch, & dinner) in the dining car are included in your fare and can usually be served in your room, if needed, if your car attendant is available. Your car will have a supply of complimentary bottled water, coffee, soda, etc., however, on a long trip these items often run out before you reach your destination. The lounge car will have these same items and many more available for purchase throughout your entire trip. Relax, enjoy, meet new people, have fun, & be sure to look out the window !
Posts: 218 | Registered: Mar 2001
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I have done this kind of trip - two days from Denver to NYC and back with infant and then small child. Bring some small plastic bags to be able to tie up dirty diapers and dispose outside your room. I used to dump them at station stop trash bins; bring several bottles of water; I have had room attendants who would clean the baby bottles in the dining car kitchen for me (alternatively take the older child walking thru the train and stop in the diner and ask); the seat in your can be pulled out into bed position easily for diaper changing and for naps (and they're will still be space in your room for sitting; bring games for the three year old - those woods puzzles and coloring books and stuff s/he can do at a table in the lounge car; the train stations typically do not have diapers and wipes so be sure to have your changing bag stocked; the train rocks a bit so I suggest holding your child's hand while walking the cars; the rocking seems conducive to naps for all ages (adult and child). Also I usually take a small collapsible (sp?) stroller for the walk thru the station and out to the train. The platforms can be crowded and dangerous and scary. My son used to find the stroller comforting in those circumstances. And a final thought - as a former waiter and cab driver I tip attendants etc. at the time of the service. This usually reinforces the desired behavior for the trip, but not always. I have not been on the route you are taking but other Amtrak trips with kids have been marvelous and relaxing. Hope this all helps. Feel free to email me off list if you have other questions.
Ira
Posts: 300 | From: Denver, CO USA | Registered: Aug 2000
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I don't remember my first long distance train trip as an infant (taken when I was just 6 months old). But I still have surprisingly vivid memories of traveling overnight on the old New York Central Railroad at age 3.
My advice? Try not to become so preoccupied with keeping your 3 year-old "busy" with books, games, and other diversions brought from home that you both spend very little time looking out the window.
After all, dining cars are nice. And sleeping compartments are fun. But the magical part of traveling by train is watching the world pass by -- small towns, big cities, farms, rivers, factories, and all.
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