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Trains: travel with creature comforts

Need to get away from the stress and strain of everyday life? Why not experience the pleasure of a train ride to your next destination?

Whether you're going solo or bonding with the family, traveling by train can be a luxurious ride where dining and sleeping are the least of your worries. When journeying a long distance, either by coach or first-class, passengers can enjoy the dining experience of a restaurant and the comforts of home, all while in transit.

Most long-distance trains have a full-service dining car, which serves hot meals prepared onboard for breakfast, lunch and dinner to both coach and first class. Meals for those traveling first class are included in the train's ticket price; however, for an extra fee, coach passengers may choose to dine in this area.

For a more informal feast, patrons can find beverages, sandwiches and snacks in the lounge area, dinette or cafe cars.

According to Amtrak, the country's top passenger train company, all patrons are welcomed to bring food and beverages onboard.

If you know that you will be riding on the train overnight, book your reservations a few weeks in advance for the best possible seating.

In the coach area passengers can stretch out and enjoy a snooze in their adjustable reclining seats. If you're looking for something a little more comfortable, you can pay extra to upgrade to first-class status for more of a hotel experience.

Families with four to six members can stay in the "family bedroom," while singles or couples can sleep in "bedrooms," all equipped with reclining seats that convert to a bed, along with a shower, a toilet and a vanity/sink.

Smaller rooms or "roomettes" are also available to Amtrak passengers, but you should be aware that the restroom facilities for a roomette are not private; these facilities must be shared with other passengers.

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