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Finally! Empire Builder trip planned!


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#1 W951BER

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Posted 23 September 2016 - 06:46 PM

Picking it up in Milwaukee on 9/27, arriving 9/29, then returning 10/4, arriving 10/6.

 

This is the trip to Seattle we planned a few years ago, but due to "stuff", had to put off.  Now we're ready to go and all is planned!

 

Question for you seasoned EB travelers:  On the Southwest Chief to Albuquerque, in April, the sleepers were placed in the front, where the train's horn was very noticeable while trying to sleep. (Engine, Engine, Baggage, Sleeper1, Sleeper2, Dining car, Observation/Lounge car, and then coach cars).

 

Will it be that way on trains 7 & 8? I'll be bringing earplugs to sleep (worked wonders on the SW Chief), but I might not need them if the sleepers are at the end of the consist.

 

What's your thought?

 

 

BTW: We are very excited about the two-day trip (each way), and the convenience of hopping on in our hometown, instead of training to Chicago. The scanner has been programmed with the frequencies used on that route, already, too!

 

 

 

 



#2 KevinKorell

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Posted 23 September 2016 - 07:03 PM

Yes, you can expect the Seattle section of the Empire Builder to be configured in that manner.  On our July group Fest trip on #7 we had 2 engines, baggage, transition sleeper, 2 sleepers, diner, then coaches, and then the Portland section behind that.  The Sightseer Lounge is part of the Portland section.  There won't be a lounge car west of Spokane in the Seattle section.

 

The train horn is something seasoned travelers expect to hear, no matter where they are positioned on the train.  It is something you become accustomed to especially on a multi-night journey like the western trains.

 

Enjoy your trip, and do let us know of your experiences when you get back.



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#3 W951BER

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Posted 23 September 2016 - 07:44 PM

Thanks for the data.  I will be happy to post a report.  This time, I'm not going to be as over prepared as I was on my first ever sleeper experience to Albuquerque.  Much less baggage in the room, and just one interesting book, for evenings and unscheduled delays (instead of 6 magazines that I never opened due to beautiful scenery!). Also, going without a laptop (using the smartphone exclusively).

 

For sure: Small pillow, extension cord, earplugs, duct tape (needed it twice, last time!), plenty of tip money, tiny handheld scanner (preprogrammed) & charger, and extra battery. Headphones should be arriving by Amazon Prime by tomorrow!






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