Thanks for all the replies on this thread.

I ended up taking Coach both to San Diego and back, and sat (as recommended), on the upper level - from LA to SD - on the right hand side, and from SD to LA - on the left hand side - to have a great way to see the view.

It wasn't excessively crowded, though it did fill up at various portions of the trip. I tried using the WiFi but it was spotty, at best, so I just using my cell phone instead.

Overall, taking the train was a lot of fun and I'd do it again -- the cars are clean, staff is friendly, and the trains were on time both directions.


Overall, a good experience, and I'd take the train again.