AMTRAK: Newark NJ to Savannah (Atlanta, Palmetto: costs, train, area)

[lammius]

Hello everyone, I'm planning a Thanksgiving trip to the Savannah area to visit Grandma. I'm trying to decide whether to fly or take a train. I have flown down before, and it hasn't been too bad (usually take a US Airways flight with quick stop in Charlotte). I'm considering taking the train instead this time. The reasons? Well I just hate flying in general (security hassles, almost always delays at Newark).

According to amtrak.com, the train trip from Newark to Savannah would be about 13 hours each way and $300 round trip (most flights I'm finding now are closer to $600 r/t). It's certainly longer than flying, but fewer hassles, cheaper, and it might be kinda fun. Have any of you taken this trip before? Some of Amtrak's lines run horribly behind schedule. Does the Palmetto usually operate on-time? Am I being silly for even considering it? Should I just stick to flying down instead?

I'd appreciate your experiences and advice! Thank you!

[ellie]

Amtrak is often behind schedule. I recently took a trip from Savannah where the train was 3 hrs. late. The return trip was roughly an hour behind.

That being said, it was one of the most relaxing hassle-free trips I've taken in ages. Costs the same as paying for gas.

Essentially, all you have to do is sit there. Plenty of leg room. I actually enjoyed it and my trip was 10 hrs. Third time I've taken an extended trip up or down the east coast.

If you're a type-B personality, don't mind sitting near other people, can handle possible kid noise, and odd delays; why not?

Make your reservations early. With increased prices for everything, they're at capacity. Also carry snacks, reading material, a pillow and a blanket. Food's expensive and you may want to nap.

[WanderingImport]

I would say definitely! Go for it. I'd much rather take a train than fly. Much less of a hassle.

[blackrabbit]

I just took the amtrack from NYC to Atlanta and it was great.