Train, Train

The majority of time that I have spent on trains in my life has been on the Atlantic seaboard, which is not a very nice place to ride the train--it is a very utilitarian way to get from one urban center to another, and it is often very economical to do so (for instance, the Mark train between Washingron DC and Baltimore is just $6), but it is not an experience that moves many to wax elloquently about the experience. It is just not very nice as vacations go.

The train from London to Glasgow is a different story. Soon after pulling out of Euston Station one is in rural England, where the sheep outnumber the people in terms of the view. The train itself is civilized--in addition to the tables and the drinks cart and the food trolley, all providing far more service than anyone has seen on an airplane in more than a decade, they have modern conveniences as well. Wireless throughout the train, and plugs at your seat so that you can recharge while you travel. I loved the 4 hours spent in this way--being able to see the countryside at an affordable price that did not include having to drive was such a luxury in all ways except for the price.