Amtrak Guest Rewards - Relative Merits of Acela vs. Business Class on Northeast Regional

I have taken many trips from BOS to NYP and back, in various combinations
of Acela and Northeast Regional (upgraded to business class).
Here's what I have noticed, and I'm curious about any other BTDTs:

1. Acela is [obviously] a quicker ride, and sometimes has more convenient
scheduling.
2. Acela is often cheaper than business class (full-paid) on the regular train
3. Acela earns many more AGR points than the regular train, I think it is
500 per one-way trip vs. cost of the ticket (not counting whatever bonuses)

BUT:

4. Acela doesn't allow AAA discounts.
5. Acela is often much more crowded than business class on the Regional
6. Acela (in regular "business class") doesn't have as many frills i.e. things
like free drinks and nicer bathrooms.



Because of #5 above, on my most recent trip I just went ahead and got
the Regional tickets. Then I was kicking myself because it was totally
crowded and I should have at least gotten the better cost/time/points
for that. I'm not prepared to pay to upgrade to First on Acela, which I
suspect would solve all the problems....

What I mean by "crowded" is that you have to share your set of 2 seats
with a stranger. (I know, that 's a bit spoiled of me....)


What do people think?

--LG

3. Acela earns many more AGR points than the regular train, I think it is
500 per one-way trip vs. cost of the ticket (not counting whatever bonuses)

That is the case for certain city pairs
that can be checked and verified right here (https://www.amtrakguestrewards.com/index.cfm?loc=amtrakbaseearningdetail.html&category=earn&rsdone2=%253A8%2520M%252AW%255BGE%255FLG%253E%255D %2540%252F%253D%2525M3B%252E%253DH%2528%2529%253AU %252F7%253D%2527%2527S%2540%2524%2520%250A).
Acela rides between all other stops
earn only twice the cost that you have paid--
the same that you would earn on Regional.

I fail to comprehend why some insist
on pressing "enter" after every line.
It makes it hard to read, at least to me--
There is a reason why my screen is wide!

That is the case for certain city pairs
that can be checked and verified right here (https://www.amtrakguestrewards.com/index.cfm?loc=amtrakbaseearningdetail.html&category=earn&rsdone2=%253A8%2520M%252AW%255BGE%255FLG%253E%255D %2540%252F%253D%2525M3B%252E%253DH%2528%2529%253AU %252F7%253D%2527%2527S%2540%2524%2520%250A).
Acela rides between all other stops
earn only twice the cost that you have paid--
the same that you would earn on Regional.

Ah, well the vast majority of my trips are BOS <-> NYP, which is in that category.


I fail to comprehend why some insist
on pressing "enter" after every line.
It makes it hard to read, at least to me--
There is a reason why my screen is wide!

That was beautiful poetry. ;) The reason I use CRs (and isn't "carriage return"
a lovely archaic thing to call it) is that on my device, it is easier to type that way. But I'm sorry for disturbing your reading, particularly when you are the only one who replied.

--LG

That was beautiful poetry. ;) The reason I use CRs (and isn't "carriage return"
a lovely archaic thing to call it) is that on my device, it is easier to type that way. But I'm sorry for disturbing your reading, particularly when you are the only one who replied.

--LG

No worries--it's becoming (or, rather, I'm making it :p) something of an ongoing joke (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards/984455-fare-questions.html) around here. Not singling you out! :D

No worries--it's becoming (or, rather, I'm making it :p) something of an ongoing joke around here. Not singling you out! :D

Do some people perhaps read on devices that don't wrap lines well? I know that
on some yahoo sites you have to scroll way way over if the person doesn't CR
well. Anyway, I think you have an amazing talent for kvetchy blank verse. :)

Back on my question - would you ever choose to ride Business on Regional
instead of Acela? Why/why not? I'm thinking that next time I'm going to just
do the Acela since Regional Business was just as crowded and lacked any of the other benefits. I'm also wondering about Amtrak's perspective, and how they view Acela, as a whole new product or another "Business" option.

--LG

Do some people perhaps read on devices that don't wrap lines well? I know that
on some yahoo sites you have to scroll way way over if the person doesn't CR
well.

I come across some sites on my iPhone
that don't text-wrap and are indeed a fuss.
It's mostly not a problem for me, though,
and long lines on my screen I find a plus.

Anyway, I think you have an amazing talent for kvetchy blank verse. :)

Finally! My genius is noticed! :p

I've got to develop my rhyme scheme talents, though, if I want to TRULY impress my old English teacher. 14-line sonnets in ABABCDCDEFEFGG...here I come! ;)

Back on my question - would you ever choose to ride Business on Regional
instead of Acela? Why/why not? I'm thinking that next time I'm going to just
do the Acela since Regional Business was just as crowded and lacked any of the other benefits. I'm also wondering about Amtrak's perspective, and how they view Acela, as a whole new product or another "Business" option.

--LG

I've only ever taken Acela First, never Acela Business and never a Regional in any class. But then again, I don't live anywhere remotely near it and only take it as a novelty, not as functional transportation. I'll leave this question for others to answer. :)

I come across some sites on my iPhone
that don't text-wrap and are indeed a fuss.
It's mostly not a problem for me, though,
and long lines on my screen I find a plus.

Nice.



Finally! My genius is noticed! :p

I've got to develop my rhyme scheme talents, though, if I want to TRULY impress my old English teacher. 14-line sonnets in ABABCDCDEFEFGG...here I come! ;)

Eh, I think the curmudgeonly preachy tone of FT is much more suited to
dactylic hexameter. If you have more than 5000 posts you are permitted
a spondee substitution occasionally. ;)



I've only ever taken Acela First, never Acela Business and never a Regional in any class. But then again, I don't live anywhere remotely near it and only take it as a novelty, not as functional transportation. I'll leave this question for others to answer. :)

Doesn't Acela First cost an arm and a leg? Is there some high status
that lets you upgrade for free? And also, does it get crowded on the
northeast routes?

--LG

Doesn't Acela First cost an arm and a leg? Is there some high status
that lets you upgrade for free? And also, does it get crowded on the
northeast routes?

--LG

Putting aside the feet for the moment:

No, it only costs an arm. Legs [and feet ;)] are left intact. :p

If you earn 5,000 rail points (ONLY points earned by traveling on a train) in a year, you earn AGR Select status. If you earn 10,000 rail points in a year, you earn AGR Select Plus status. When you receive your Select Plus packet, you get--I believe--two coupons good for space-available (IIRC, one hour before departure) upgrades to First Class on Acela. I forget the exact number of coupons and the terms of their use, but the point is, the benefits are limited.

In my [admittedly very few] experiences, First Class was FAR from full. I've read here and on other Amtrak boards that it occasionally fills up, though. But with 2x1 seating, it doesn't feel as full even when there are no open seats.

When you receive your Select Plus, you get--I believe--two coupons good for space-available (IIRC, one hour before departure) upgrades to First Class on Acela. I forget the exact number of coupons and the terms of their use, but the point is, the benefits are limited.


For Select Plus you get 4 upgrade coupons and 2 companion coupons. The S+ upgrade coupons can be used within 24 hr of trip... the S coupons are the ones that can only be used within 1 hr.

Good pt re: regionals being less crowded. BUt, I just find the Acela on-time track record to be infinitely better than the regional and getting to my meetings on time is my #1 priority.

For Select Plus you get 4 upgrade coupons and 2 companion coupons. The S+ upgrade coupons can be used within 24 hr of trip... the S coupons are the ones that can only be used within 1 hr.

Actually the Select+ coupons are 48 hour coupons, not 24.

Putting aside the feet for the moment:
In my [admittedly very few] experiences, First Class was FAR from full. I've read here and on other Amtrak boards that it occasionally fills up, though. But with 2x1 seating, it doesn't feel as full even when there are no open seats.

If one is riding NYP-WAS, one is far more likely to find first class sold out, especially on rush hour trains and especially between NYP and PHL. South of Philly it may or may not be sold out.

Going north/east of NYP to Boston, some rush hour trains used to sell out in FC before the current fiscal crisis hit. I'm not so sure that they are selling out now.

Back on my question - would you ever choose to ride Business on Regional
instead of Acela? Why/why not? I'm thinking that next time I'm going to just
do the Acela since Regional Business was just as crowded and lacked any of the other benefits. I'm also wondering about Amtrak's perspective, and how they view Acela, as a whole new product or another "Business" option.

--LG

About the only time that I'm not riding the NEC in Acela FC is when I'm either in a long distance train or connecting to a long distance train in DC. Otherwise I would normally never choose a regional for my transportation.

I take Acela FC because I prefer to sit and relax and enjoy my journey. In FC I don't have to worry about getting food or drink, it comes to me. Additionally if I'm traveling solo, I not only get a window seat, but I have no one sitting next to me.

4. Acela doesn't allow AAA discounts.


Weekend Acela runs do allow AAA discounts.

FC between BOS-NYP are rarely sold out nowadays, unless there is weather, and you get all the shuttle escapees. That's when the 48-hours-in-advance upgrade coupons come in handy, because you'll be ahead of those people.

I take the NEC Acela FC from NHV to PHL a bit. I have always gone the FC route. Early morning FC is a bit crowded until NYP but clears out there. The food/drink service and the seating (typically easy to get is fine) and the car is typically pretty quiet. Even if I have to pick it up on my own dime the upgrade is worth it.

I'm trying to maximize points, so I go with the Acela.

I think the OP is a fair assessment of the differences between Acela Business and Regional Business.
Since I am usually traveling between PHL and NWK or NYP, I have found the Regional business class to be a good choice since it is usually not crowded at all and if the train is on time there isn't a significant travel time difference between the Regional and the Acela for these city pairs.
I recently took the Acela FC between PHL and BOS and it was totally sold out between NYP and BOS. In fact, there had been some kind of ticketing snafu and it was oversold by 1 person. FC on the Acela is very nice though.

By the way, Select members receive three upgrade coupons (1 hour) and three club passes.

:) Thanks!

I think the lack-of-crowding is my defining amenity. I will give up almost
any other frill for that. However, I was so annoyed on my last trip, when
I did that BUT then Business Regional was crowded. Clearly the solution is to
ramp up my train-ing enough to get higher status, and then go for the
FC on Acela! Probably this strategy will require more Acela trips, since those
accumulate points/status faster.

--LG

p.s. LOL re your Johnnie Walker Gold status

3. Acela earns many more AGR points than the regular train, I think it is 500 per one-way trip vs. cost of the ticket (not counting whatever bonuses)
The 500 points is only for select city pairs on Acela, isn't it? So unless your city pairs are included, you're only getting the cost of the ticket (plus bonuses).

You are right, but my city pairs are BOS-NYP so they are included.
--LG

The 500 points is only for select city pairs on Acela, isn't it? So unless your city pairs are included, you're only getting the cost of the ticket (plus bonuses).

:)
p.s. LOL re your Johnnie Walker Gold status

Thanks! ;) I can't always afford the upgrade from Red or Black! They should have some type of "frequent drinker program!" :D

Thanks! ;) I can't always afford the upgrade from Red or Black! They should have some type of "frequent drinker program!" :D

And I'm not even a drinker; I just liked the subversive thing. You know, not
taking yourself too seroiusly. :)

--LG

The 500 points is only for select city pairs on Acela, isn't it? So unless your city pairs are included, you're only getting the cost of the ticket (plus bonuses).

OT - I was reminded of this the hard way recently when, after years of riding Acela between various combinations of WAS/BAL/BWI/NWK/NYP/NHV/RTE/BOS, I did a WIL-BOS run in FC and got many fewer points than expected!

Silver lining - used an H108 for the upgrade but TA didn't collect it!

ivk5

For mid-day trains, I'll take the Regional Business class over Acela.....not only does it look good on expense report, but RegBiz is generally quite empty, so get the extra space and quiet (figure those who are not looking for lowest fare go to Acela, which leaves the mid-priced Regional Biusness seats empty)......If I'm taking the train, it's because I do want the extra time to work or snooze, so the relative slowness of Regional is desirable.

On the topic of trains.....on the EWR AirTrain, ran into an international traveler who had flown into EWR, but his connection was out of JFK! I overheard him asking agents who couldn't advise him on transportation, so I suggested NJTrans from EWR to NYPenn, then LIRR to Jamaica station for the JFK AirTrain. Was that right? I was just going by memory of transit maps---what would be better?

On the topic of trains.....on the EWR AirTrain, ran into an international traveler who had flown into EWR, but his connection was out of JFK! I overheard him asking agents who couldn't advise him on transportation, so I suggested NJTrans from EWR to NYPenn, then LIRR to Jamaica station for the JFK AirTrain. Was that right? I was just going by memory of transit maps---what would be better?

Good advice, IMHO. I think one saves a few $$$ by doing (1) EWR to NWK on NJTransit, (2) PATH to WTC, (3) NYCT E train to Jamaica, and (4) AirTrain. But it's slower and more complicated for a first timer, and less luggage-friendly.

On another note, I suspect there is *gasp* bus service directly from EWR to JFK.

For mid-day trains, I'll take the Regional Business class over Acela.....not only does it look good on expense report, but RegBiz is generally quite empty, so get the extra space and quiet (figure those who are not looking for lowest fare go to Acela, which leaves the mid-priced Regional Biusness seats empty)......If I'm taking the train, it's because I do want the extra time to work or snooze, so the relative slowness of Regional is desirable.



:)
What an honor that your 2009 post (since you do one per year on average!)
was in this thread! Yes, this is kind of what I was thinking. I don't mind the
slowness (except that time I was stuck outside New London in a broken
train for three hours in the middle of the night). But I got really annoyed
when it was not less crowded recently, after I had sacrificed price, miles,
and time by avoiding Acela. I think you're right that mid-day is a better
bet for this plan.

--LG

It seems like even with Select Plus that you only receive a very limited number of upgrades relative to most airline programs which I use as a base line to compare. For example, in northeast routes, a flyer on CO, DL, or US would essentially receive unlimited upgrades to first class.

I also noticed recently that Amtrak has no draft beer in the cafe car on Acela which they had at launch. I rode Acela on 8/20 (for points) from BOS-PVD and PVD-BOS. The first class meals seemed nice, but the business class cafe car did not at least appear to have much if any upgraded food/beverage items over most trains?

As one who usually flys the shuttle I might take FC for the better food/beverage/ambiance but I'm not sure Acela business is really any better than Regional business or coach. Essentially business on the Acela is like coach, is it just marketing that they call it business class?

It is surely mor eexpensive BOS-NYP first class than the shuttle so really it would have to offer really good food etc.

If you are an Amtrak road warrier, can the agents just upgrade you unoficially even if you don't have a coupon? I know all the airlines can and do this although they won't admit it publically, but say if someone traveled 1-2 times a week would they get some kind of undocumented perks?

Is being a Select Plus, eg does it feel, like say being Platinum on an airline? Do you know if that info is displayed when ticket agents access your PNR/reservation? Is it noted on the paperwork that the conducter has? Do they treat Select Plus any better during irregular operations? Are Club Acela Amtrak agents more empowered to waive and fix things?

Just give me reasons why this is good, or should I just stay on the shuttle as Gold/Platinum?

Also I'm intrigued how Amtrak handles no shows since they I guess don't overbook, and pax don't really check in per se and they don't scan your ticket when you board the train so I just wonder how they manage that process logisticlaly when trains are full?

And one last question how many pax does the Acela hold in first/business?

It seems like even with Select Plus that you only receive a very limited number of upgrades relative to most airline programs which I use as a base line to compare. For example, in northeast routes, a flyer on CO, DL, or US would essentially receive unlimited upgrades to first class.

I also noticed recently that Amtrak has no draft beer in the cafe car on Acela which they had at launch. I rode Acela on 8/20 (for points) from BOS-PVD and PVD-BOS. The first class meals seemed nice, but the business class cafe car did not at least appear to have much if any upgraded food/beverage items over most trains?

As one who usually flys the shuttle I might take FC for the better food/beverage/ambiance but I'm not sure Acela business is really any better than Regional business or coach. Essentially business on the Acela is like coach, is it just marketing that they call it business class?

It is surely mor eexpensive BOS-NYP first class than the shuttle so really it would have to offer really good food etc.

If you are an Amtrak road warrier, can the agents just upgrade you unoficially even if you don't have a coupon? I know all the airlines can and do this although they won't admit it publically, but say if someone traveled 1-2 times a week would they get some kind of undocumented perks?

Is being a Select Plus, eg does it feel, like say being Platinum on an airline? Do you know if that info is displayed when ticket agents access your PNR/reservation? Is it noted on the paperwork that the conducter has? Do they treat Select Plus any better during irregular operations? Are Club Acela Amtrak agents more empowered to waive and fix things?

Just give me reasons why this is good, or should I just stay on the shuttle as Gold/Platinum?

Also I'm intrigued how Amtrak handles no shows since they I guess don't overbook, and pax don't really check in per se and they don't scan your ticket when you board the train so I just wonder how they manage that process logisticlaly when trains are full?

And one last question how many pax does the Acela hold in first/business?

All good questions! But the train_world and air_world are very different when it comes to loyalty programs.

On Amtrak, the ticket agents and conductors do not know your status unless you show them your card. Conductors have no paperwork about individual reservations/riders. They (and the FC car servers) have a printout with the number of people boarding/departing at each station, but it's rarely accurate since it's printed out hours before train time and things change until the last minute. There are no names given to crews at all, even in FC.

I've been Select Plus on Amtrak every year since the program started, and I have never received a free "op-up" nor have I heard of someone getting one by virtue of status, unless they personally knew the conductor (in which case status doesn't matter). Every now and then there's story of someone whose upgrade coupon was not taken, but I think that's very, very rare.

Your ticket is not scanned when you board the train. It is visually inspected by the conductor to make sure you are on the right train and in the right class car.

If you are in Club Acela, you are there because you are either S+ or riding FC. The agents there are good and efficient, but don't bend the rules. For example, recently I had one of the one-hour upgrade certificates. I know the agent well, and she's terrific. She told me there was plenty of room to upgrade, but had to wait until exactly one hour before departure before the computer would take it.

I recollect the Acela FC car has 43 seats, compared to the BC with roughly 65.

A friend of mine (who might chime in here) "flys" Acela two to three times per month BOS-EWR-BOS, and wishes there was an S++ for people like him, with unlimited space-available upgrades. And yes, he deserves it! Sadly, Amtrak doesn't do this.

You should not decide on train vs. plane because of the loyalty program. The differentiators include (for the train) -- easier access from downtown (i.e. no schlep to the airport), no TSA security, few weather delays, ability to use cell phones and other electronic devices when you want, ability to get up and walk around, etc. That all being said, I've been PLAT on CO and clearing to F BOS/EWR is very difficult during peak times. You get what you pay for!

A few weeks ago I was on an Acela train that was overbooked in both FC and BC out of NYP northbound. There were standees until New Haven. It's not supposed to happen, but it does.

Agree with wxguy.

Don't choose Amtrak for S+. S+ really does not measure up relative to airline programs. You get almost zero preferential treatment, just a few coupons and access to Club Acela which is not worth all that much.

But, despite that and all the endless CS problems I've had (some documented here) Amtrak does have its upside:

1) Its locations are usually more convenient than airport.
2) You don't have to go thru the hassles of going thru security and can literally get to station 2 mins before departure
3) It's more reliable and predictable in bad weather than shuttle
4) Almost everything is refundable, cancellable,

As one who usually flys the shuttle I might take FC for the better food/beverage/ambiance but I'm not sure Acela business is really any better than Regional business or coach. Essentially business on the Acela is like coach, is it just marketing that they call it business class?

From another thread, here are the figures for seat size/pitch on Acela:

Here are the Acela demensions:

First Class:

Seat Height 31"
Seat Width 23"
Seat Pitch 42"

Business Class:

Seat Height 31"
Seat Width 21"
Seat Pitch 42"

The Acela numbers, as well as pictures and other info can be found in this (http://http://www.amtrak.com/acela/acelaFlash/whyAcelaDemo.html) interactive at Amtrak's website.

Based on those figures, Acela Business Class's seat pitch most decidedly outdoes Y on the shuttle and is generous even compared to F on the shuttle.

F on Acela offers a slightly wider seat and 2x1 seating but no additional pitch, although 42" (especially if you are alone and get one of the single seats) is plenty roomy enough. But aside from the wider (and single) seat and better food, Acela Business isn't any worse than Acela F (although it's generally a lot more crowded and feels like it).

First and Business on Acela are both roomier than Regional coach. Regional business cars are a crapshoot: you can get a Regional coach car with the word "Business" taped over the word "Coach" plus a free warm soda (though I think people have successfully gotten Amtrak to refund the accommodation upgrade charge when that happens), or you can get one of the Club-Dinette cars with 2x1 pseudo-leather seating with seat pitch more generous than Acela. So depending on what you get in Regional Business, your assumption about Acela Business being no better than Regional Business can swing from accurate to inaccurate.

or you can get one of the Club-Dinette cars with 2x1 pseudo-leather seating with seat pitch more generous than Acela.

Other than on the overnight trains, 66/67, Amtrak has stopped using the Club-Dinette cars for business class seating on the NEC.

If you want a Club-Dinette car these days you have to venture off the NEC or ride the overnight run.

... access to Club Acela which is not worth all that much. If you are in DC, though, the upside to having Club access is that you get to board the Acela trains before everyone else standing outside in the gate area. That could mean the difference between sitting facing front in a seat pair vs. sitting backwards up against the window at a table. Other stations may have a similar benefit. But in general, the Club is just a way to get away from the masses.

If you are in DC, though, the upside to having Club access is that you get to board the Acela trains before everyone else standing outside in the gate area. That could mean the difference between sitting facing front in a seat pair vs. sitting backwards up against the window at a table. Other stations may have a similar benefit. But in general, the Club is just a way to get away from the masses.

Agree on that, but it is really the only perk I really care about for S+.

Others have mentioned the bathroom in the clubs, I rarely use the bathroom at the train station so I guess I have been missing out.

Agree on that, but it is really the only perk I really care about for S+.

Others have mentioned the bathroom in the clubs, I rarely use the bathroom at the train station so I guess I have been missing out.

I pass through Boston South Station and New York Penn Station often for reasons other than riding Amtrak. As an S+ I can use the Club Acela at any time, and access the bathroom if needed. It has come in very handy!

I pass through Boston South Station and New York Penn Station often for reasons other than riding Amtrak. As an S+ I can use the Club Acela at any time, and access the bathroom if needed. It has come in very handy!

Actually, do the rules allow folks in only w/ S+ card, ie w/o a same day amtrak tix? Curious, and haven't seen the fine print on this. If so, maybe another benefit is I can pick up a daily paper every morning :)

I pass through Boston South Station and New York Penn Station often for reasons other than riding Amtrak. As an S+ I can use the Club Acela at any time, and access the bathroom if needed. It has come in very handy!

Actually, do the rules allow folks in only w/ S+ card, ie w/o a same day amtrak tix? Curious, and haven't seen the fine print on this. If so, maybe another benefit is I can pick up a daily paper every morning :)

As an S+ I routinely visit Club Acelas (mostly NYP) when not traveling, like wxguy. I have never been challenged. Don't know what the "fine print" says but certainly the Select Plus benefits don't say anything about same-day travel being a requirement.

Benefits include the aforementioned newspapers and bathrooms, as well as soft drinks, light snacks, etc. I've also occasionally found it convenient to just have a place to camp out and work for a few hours in Midtown away from the office.

From AGR Select Plus Benefits page (https://www.amtrakguestrewards.com/index.cfm?category=info&loc=selectPlusinfo.html&rsdone2=%253A8%2520M%252AW%255BGE%255FLG%253E%255D %2540%252F%253C%2525M%253BD%252E%253DH%252C%2529%2 53AI%252F7%253D%253B%252ES%2540%2524%2520%250A):


Unlimited access to all ClubAcela®, Amtrak's Metropolitan Lounge® and First class lounges in the Amtrak system when you present your Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus membership card to an attendant (luggage tags are not valid forms of admittance). Your ClubAcela access allows admittance for immediate family members traveling with you or one non-family guest.

As an S+ I routinely visit Club Acelas (mostly NYP) when not traveling, like wxguy. I have never been challenged. Don't know what the "fine print" says but certainly the Select Plus benefits don't say anything about same-day travel being a requirement.


Great info! I'll have to test that in Boston. And try whether guest privileges work for this as well. I can use the paper in the morning :).

Great info! I'll have to test that in Boston. And try whether guest privileges work for this as well. I can use the paper in the morning :).

I've done it many times in Boston, both with and without a guest.

If one is riding NYP-WAS, one is far more likely to find first class sold out, especially on rush hour trains and especially between NYP and PHL. South of Philly it may or may not be sold out.

Going north/east of NYP to Boston, some rush hour trains used to sell out in FC before the current fiscal crisis hit. I'm not so sure that they are selling out now.

As was seen tonight... :D

A certain FTer held a BOS-NYP Acela trip, and it was $70 for the upgrade...

Considering its less then five hours from departure, and there is still space in F :D

The previous post makes no sense to me. Was FC sold out BOS-NYP? Or wasn't it? Did someone actually upgrade to FC? Or not? What does the 5 hours before departure have to do with anything? :confused: :confused:

I've not seen a FC car that was more than half-full between NYP and BOS this year, on the 7-8 times I've taken one.

The previous post makes no sense to me. Was FC sold out BOS-NYP? Or wasn't it? Did someone actually upgrade to FC? Or not? What does the 5 hours before departure have to do with anything? :confused: :confused:

I've not seen a FC car that was more than half-full between NYP and BOS this year, on the 7-8 times I've taken one.

Was saying that yes, FC is not full as the FTer changed their ticket at less then 5 hours out, and the cheapest fare was still avail... so agreeing with the consensus on this route...

Was saying that yes, FC is not full as the FTer changed their ticket at less then 5 hours out, and the cheapest fare was still avail... so agreeing with the consensus on this route...

Are you doing this weird 3rd-person self-referential thing? Are you really trying to say something like: "I traveled BOS-NYP, and was able to upgrade to FC less than 5 hours before departure, so it wasn't sold out"?

Are you doing this weird 3rd-person self-referential thing? Are you really trying to say something like: "I traveled BOS-NYP, and was able to upgrade to FC less than 5 hours before departure, so it wasn't sold out"?

Wish I could try this out sometime... just for the novelty of it, as the trains in Alaska are sooo slllooowwww...

But this is another FTer who was traveling on the East Coast I was talking about, sharing his experience, as I was helping them look up the options...

Are you doing this weird 3rd-person self-referential thing? Are you really trying to say something like: "I traveled BOS-NYP, and was able to upgrade to FC less than 5 hours before departure, so it wasn't sold out"?

Not sure who beckoa's referring to with a weird third-person self-referential thing, :p but I was also on a BOS-NYP Acela train on 9/11 and booked in F less than five hours before departure. As I was only traveling with my (nearly dead) iPhone, I called a certain ANC-based FTer, who helped me look up the options. (How's that for weird third-person self-referential things? :p)

I had no problem changing my reservation multiple times. At first, I had held a 9/10 10pm WAS-NYP Regional in coach, since business was sold out. But when I couldn't make the SEA-DCA flight, I changed my flight to SEA-BOS and my Amtrak reservation to the 9/11 5:10am BOS-NYP Acela in F and then finally to the 6:10am BOS-NYP Acela (in order to have the majority of my trip in daylight and to gain use of the BOS Club Acela). F was wide open and at the lowest bucket on both trains--not sure if it was the day of the week (Thursday) or the hour of the day (early morning), but the trains were exceedingly empty. At no point along the run did I see more than 10 people in the first class car. The NYP Club Acela was similarly empty--maybe 10 people in it (and I was the only person in the BOS Club Acela).

Not sure who beckoa's referring to with a weird third-person self-referential thing, :p

I've determined the underlying issue...

Lack thereof of sonnet usage :rolleyes: ;)

[written in free-verse :D]

Great info! I'll have to test that in Boston. And try whether guest privileges work for this as well. I can use the paper in the morning :).

Ok, my findings:

- works in Penn, just flashing S+ card gets me in
- does not work in S. Station, need ticket

does not work in S. Station, need ticket

Contrary to my experience, so it appears this is a YMMV.

I spend enough time at the BOS lounge that the attendants recognize me & are used to seeing me though so maybe that helps.

Contrary to my experience, so it appears this is a YMMV.

I spend enough time at the BOS lounge that the attendants recognize me & are used to seeing me though so maybe that helps.

Yah, sounds like I need to get to know them :-\ joy.

Ok, my findings:

- works in Penn, just flashing S+ card gets me in
- does not work in S. Station, need ticket

If you couldn't get into the CA in Boston with just your Select + card, then you should have taken that agent's name as they were wrong.

And I've flashed just my card many times in Boston, so you must have hit someone who doesn't know the rules. I've even taken guests into the lounge in Boston with just my card. And while Manny might recognize me, he's about the only agent that I actually know and have seen with any regularity.

If you couldn't get into the CA in Boston with just your Select + card, then you should have taken that agent's name as they were wrong.

And I've flashed just my card many times in Boston, so you must have hit someone who doesn't know the rules. I've even taken guests into the lounge in Boston with just my card. And while Manny might recognize me, he's about the only agent that I actually know and have seen with any regularity.

Ok... I didn't push the issue. I tried when I had a ticket... handed over the s+ card and she asked for the ticket. I'll take down name and hunt for Manny next time :)

Well many agents, regardless of which club, will either still ask you for a ticket or at least ask you what train you're on. They'll do that so that they can be sure to alert/announce that train for you. Sometimes I'll just tell them I'm not catching an Amtrak train, or occasionally I'll tell them that I just came off X train.

But regardless of what you are or are not doing with trains that day, you are entitled to use the lounge. I just used the NY one today, and didn't ride a single Amtrak train. I arrived via the LIRR and left on NJT. And I've gone into the CA in Boston, even though the only train that I was riding that day was an MBTA train.

I just used the NY one today, and didn't ride a single Amtrak train.

Ha, maybe I bumped you, was just there around 5:30pm :)

Ha, maybe I bumped you, was just there around 5:30pm :)

As Maxwell Smart would have said; "missed it by just that much". I caught a 5:05 NJT train out of Penn.

But I'm guessing that you got to see William, one of the best agents in NYC's CA IMHO. Always has a smile, usualy addresses people by name, and knows his way around the reservations system. :)

As Maxwell Smart would have said; "missed it by just that much". I caught a 5:05 NJT train out of Penn.

I don't know what's wrong with me today! Actually, I was there at _4_:30 for the 5pm back to BOS. I also told my wife to pick me up at S. Station at 7:40pm and of course it should be 8:40pm. Off by 1 hr all over the place.

So, nice to have shared the CA space w/ you.

But I'm guessing that you got to see William, one of the best agents in NYC's CA IMHO. Always has a smile, usualy addresses people by name, and knows his way around the reservations system. :)

And he must've been the one that waved me through just flashing my S+ card ^

I don't know what's wrong with me today! Actually, I was there at _4_:30 for the 5pm back to BOS. I also told my wife to pick me up at S. Station at 7:40pm and of course it should be 8:40pm. Off by 1 hr all over the place.

So, nice to have shared the CA space w/ you.


Yup, then we would have been there at the same time, as I arrived around 4:15 and left at 4:50. Any chance that when you came in you walked past the desk, turned left, went up the small step to the slightly raised area? There was a guy that came in and sat down in that area right around 4:30 and got on his phone to call someone.

If you did, then we were just feet away, as I was sitting on the other side of the small round table sipping my soda.

Yup, then we would have been there at the same time, as I arrived around 4:15 and left at 4:50. Any chance that when you came in you walked past the desk, turned left, went up the small step to the slightly raised area? There was a guy that came in and sat down in that area right around 4:30 and got on his phone to call someone.

If you did, then we were just feet away, as I was sitting on the other side of the small round table sipping my soda.

Ah, not me... I got my soda and went straight to the end and sat down without turning left to go behind the wall.

Next time :)

If you couldn't get into the CA in Boston with just your Select + card, then you should have taken that agent's name as they were wrong.

And I've flashed just my card many times in Boston, so you must have hit someone who doesn't know the rules. I've even taken guests into the lounge in Boston with just my card. And while Manny might recognize me, he's about the only agent that I actually know and have seen with any regularity.

AlanB... my understanding is that Manny retired about two months ago. Have you seen him since? I've never had a problem using the CA with my S+ card, but without a ticket - and that's every year since S+ started. It's a terrific hide-away if you are waiting for an MBTA train.

At NYP, Veronica is terrific. William is nice too.

AlanB... my understanding is that Manny retired about two months ago. Have you seen him since?


Alas, I haven't been to Boston in about 5 months now, so not only have I not seen Manny, I wasn't even aware that he was retiring.

Alas, I haven't been to Boston in about 5 months now, so not only have I not seen Manny, I wasn't even aware that he was retiring.

I think Manny left Boston and is playing for the Dodgers now. Maybe he moonlighted as a BOS CA agent during his imposed "vacation" earlier this year. :p

Alas, I haven't been to Boston in about 5 months now, so not only have I not seen Manny, I wasn't even aware that he was retiring.

I'll double check when I go into South Station (by MBTA Commuter Rail) early in the week, but that's what one of the agents told me.

I apologize for not having read this entire thread before posting, but here's my take:

I travel roundtrip BOS-NYP every week. (Look for me on 2167 later today.) I almost always travel Acela business, but on occasion will pay or use one of my coupons to upgrade to first. I also on occasion ride a regional train, sometimes in coach, although usually in business.

Of all of the options, I prefer riding the quiet car on the Acela. My optimal ride is doing so with no one sitting next to me, and I would say my success rate doing this is about 60-75%.

Most of the time I've upgraded to Acela first, I've been sorry I did so. There are too few of the truly solo seats, so often I get stuck with someone facing me (and their knees knocking into me) or sharing one of the four seaters. This is less of an issue when boarding at BOS or NYP, but it's always an issue if boarding at BBY or RTE, and it can be an issue at BOS and NYP if you don't board early. (Of course, getting a seat with no one next to you in the quiet car can also be an issue if you board at BBY or RTE, or board late at BOS or NYP.) But on top of that, my experience in first is that there always are people talking loudly on their cell phones in first. Always. No amount of free bad food can make up for that!

And I don't really care about the food in any event. After all, when I get on the train, I'm starting in Boston or NYC, and when I get off, I'll be in Boston or NYC, where the food options are infinitely better than on the train! (For Boston-originating lunch-time trips, a sandwich from Chacarero or Al's State Street does the trick quite nicely. For NY-originating trips, I'm a fan of Pret-a-Manger for simple and delicious sandwiches and salads. I also make sure always to pick up a large bottle of water on the way to the train.)

As for the regional trains, I just find them slow, unreliable, and depressing. There are times when my schedule requires a trip on a regional, and I'll usually go for business on those trips, but I find the Acela trains nicer enough, and the downsides minimal enough, that I can't get myself to choose a regional over an Acela.

AlanB... my understanding is that Manny retired about two months ago.

Confirmed today with the CA attendant in BOS - Manny has retired...

ivk5

Confirmed today with the CA attendant in BOS - Manny has retired...

ivk5

Thanks for the update. :)

Sad to hear that he's gone, but happy for him.

Traveling in Acela F for the first time tomorrow. Noon departure from WAS to NYP. Returning Friday from NYP at 1100. Should I expect F to be crowded on these trips? Is there seatguru for Acela F? :) I assume I should make a beeline for the single seats, correct?

I would make a beeline for one of the single seats. Make sure that you're in the Club Acela Lounge and don't board from the regular gates or you may find that all the singles are gone.

I would expect a moderate crowd, maybe half full till you hit Philly. Then expect a bit more after that.

Of course one can never predict things with any certainty either.

I would make a beeline for one of the single seats.
The only caveat with this is that the single seats don't really leave enough room for a tray AND a laptop or newspaper. That's when the doubles are better (avoid the conference tables at all costs unless traveling in a group of three or four...just too tight on leg room). But AlanB's advice is good...go for the singles.