posted
I've been trying to make an online reservation SEA/PDX without much success. (See the Website Problem post.) When I am successful I've decided to spring for the extra $12.00 for Business Class. What can I expect? Are the seat 2x2 or 1x2? Snacks?
I'll be on the 7:30AM departure from SEA so expect to eat breakfast on board. What's the food like?
Frank in SBA
moxeetwo Member # 3326
posted
Frank,
The seats are configured singles on one side doubles on the other. There is a cafe car located behind the business class cars. The food is good. They have pizza, soup, breakfast sandwiches, pop, coffee, etc. You receive a $3.00 off coupon for purchases in the cafe car, when your seat assignment is given.
How long are you going to be in PDX?
Todd
sbalax Member # 2801
posted
Can I get a seat assignment in advance? I'd really prefer one of the single seats.
I'll arrive at 11:00AM on Friday and leave the next afternoon on the Starlight. This was sort of a last minute addition to a trip to Seattle to check on an elderly aunt. I've booked a room at the Mark Spencer based on comments found here. I'm a walker, so I suspect that's how I'll get to and from Union Station. Rain might change that plan.
Any suggestions on how to occupy my time are appreciated.
Frank in dark and cool SBA
Kostroma Member # 2243
posted
Seats are assigned at the Cascades kiosk in King Street Station about 30 minutes prior to boarding, but you should have no trouble getting a single seat. I've never taken the Portland train, but I've seen the lineup and the Business Class line is usually short.
In my experience with the Cascades to Vancouver, they usually assign single travellers to the single seats and those travelling in groups to the double seats.
notelvis Member # 3071
posted
My wife and I rode Business Class on the Talgo from Seattle to Vancouver in April. The 2-1 seating was quite posh. I most remember that those of us in Business Class were invited to take seats in the dining area for breakfast before the train departed and before those passengers in coach were given the opportunity to have a sit-down breakfast.
Regardless, I think you will enjoy riding the Talgo. There is nothing like it operating anywhere else in North America.
------------------ David Pressley
[This message has been edited by notelvis (edited 11-18-2004).]
zephyr Member # 1651
posted
sbalax, if you're a "walker" in search of things to do in Portland, here's a book you might like: "Fugitives and Refugees: A Walk in Portland, Oregon" by Chuck Palahniuk. It's not your traditional travel book, focusing exclusively on the funky side of town.
posted