Apologies in advance for these "rookie" questions. I'm taking this train next week and had a fewe questions for your experienced folks:

1. We have a bedroom reserved -Is it customary to provide a gratuity for the Amtrak staff who help turn the bed down or provide other services? If so, what's the typical amount and is it provided right before we depart in RNO?

2. I've been told by many that the first couple hours of this trip are very scenic. Is the observation car typically packed with people? Is there a separate observation car for passengers with sleepers?

3. I understand you reserve meal time slots ahead of time. How does that work? Is it done prior to boarding?

Many thanks. The Amtrak threads here are always interesting and informative.