On 11/4/00 I rode the Metroliner round trip between New Carrollton MD and Newark NJ. The northbound train had a pretty heavy load (10 am departure). The 3:15 southbound departure was not nearly as crowded. Timekeeping was punctual (in contrast to the long distance trains) and the speeds -- up to 125mph in New Jersey near Trenton -- are fantastic. The fall foliage was great too. This was an interesting contrast to the San Diego-LA-Santa Barbara Surfliner route (which is what I am used to). I recommend the NEC trip for anyone who wants to see Amtrak at its speediest. With the new Acela trains starting up (I saw at least two "test runs" through New Carrollton) there is an additional incentive to check it out. FYI -- Auto Club members -- you can get a 10% discount on some fares with the Auto Club card.
Posted by reggierail (Member # 26) on :
The new Acela trainsets will be popping up on the Metroliners from time to time prior to their regular service in December. You might just luck out & get to be one of the first to ride these new trains. The 10% AAA discount applies to rail fare only & is available from Amtrak & travel agencies. See www.amtrak.com for updates on special fares & promotions. Reggie
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[This message has been edited by reggierail (edited 11-23-2000).]