Thanks in advance for your help!
Erik
Personally, I've found that the upper level tends to sway more, which can make some people feel a bit queazy on rougher sections of track.
However, it's a far less likely catalyst for motion sickness than, for example, riding in a Greyhound bus or in the back seat of a car.
Nonetheless, the lower level of a Superliner sways far less. The ride is much steadier. Your mom will probably be more comfortable there. And the view is about the same.
If the train isn't sold out and she's feeling adventurous, you can always move upstairs later for a short spell, so you can both experience rail travel at a slightly higher altitude.
[This message has been edited by dilly (edited 07-10-2003).]
I remember one fellow from upstairs who begged and pleaded with the attendant to get a seat. The attendant finally allowed him stay, but only after he surrendered every molecule of his dignity to him and the rest of us with his pathetic whining.
Mom had a great time on the train and was very pleased with the spacious seats and the easy access to the large handicap bathrooms. I came well-equipped with a veritable medicine cabinet of antidotes for just about any contingency and she found the trip both exciting and rejuvinating. There is something rather private and exclusive about that lower level and I can see why it is in such demand.
The lower level ride is OK. Personally I prefer the view from the top because you can see more. And being much more mobile than Mom, I prefer the upper levels access to the observation car and the dining car. The upper level is also further away from the wheels of the train and, thinking back, I think the ride tends to be a little smoother and quieter.
For that reason, I tend to like the ancient Superliner trains like the Southwest Chief and the modern Surfliner more than the single level trains that are found back east, as well as the Talgo trainset. There is definitely something very solid about the ride that the Superliner provides.
Regardless, I'm sure your Mom will have a great time. Just be sure she has plenty of crossword puzzles to solve and mysteries to read during her idle hours.
As for the original question, I think the lower level sways significantly less, but still bounces about as much.
One more thing to consider. If mom has an urgent "problem" on the upper level, it is a relatively long way to the rest room downstairs. The lower level seats are just a few steps away from the rest rooms.
BTW, you can easily order a lower level coach seat on-line. Click "add accomodation" and select lower level coach seat.
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Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth.
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