Well, this week has been the week to get a move on things. I am not sure what it is, but I don't get a move on things until I am in crunch time. That crunch time starts now.
Taking the train to the city that starts with a "CH", ends in an "O", and goes like "Chicago":
Monday, I went into town to purchase my train ticket to Chicago, leaving next Friday (Just two days shy of being two week in advance). When I went online this past weekend, the price was $54, which is very reasonable for a five hour train ride from Winona, MN to downtown Chicago. I like to mix up my modes of transportation from time to time. AND, not only was it cheaper, but it was also more convenient for my parents.
So, I tell the woman at the ticket booth I would like to buy a one way to Chicago next Friday. She goes to the computer and does a little typing and...they were sold out! Seriously! In no more than two days, all the seats to Chicago were sold out! My only option was to buy a private room for a total of $269.00. Whoa! Who would have thought!? I know I sure wouldn't have. I guess the lesson there is...just because I don't use it, doesn't mean other people don't use it! That and, maybe another lesson in why people plan in advance.
I put the ticket on hold and thought about it on my way home. A plane ticket to Chicago via Rochester, MN or LaCrosse, WI would be between $400-$999. Maybe someone would cancel their regular fare train ticket, I thought. Finally, I just decided I needed to buy the private room ticket. Last time I putzed on it, it cost me just over $200. The private room ticket was still cheaper than the air plane ticket. If I look on the bright side, it includes lunch. :)
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3 comments:
I'm glad your keeping a blog. I'm going to enjoy traveling with you. So write lots!
I like the view of America that trains. Used to be, when people traveled mainly by train, the towns would be built up to the a beautiful train terminal. But when cars and planes began to carry people and trains began to carry their food, cars, coal, etc. the towns started facing main street and the track would pass though the back yards. There was laundry, abandoned cars, people's pets and, in general, stuff of a lot more interest than what was in the front yard!
Enjoy your train trip!
"I like the view of America FROM trains". Had to make that correction before Laura, the English teacher, sees it!
I agree, Jeff. There is something nostalgic about the days of trains...I wouldn´t mind taking a longer train trip...ahh...nice!
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