It was great seeing you folks in the Metropolitan Lounge at the Moynihan Station. Both of you were extremely gracious and my wife was thrilled to see the pictures that you took with me - thank you. My train to DC was really delayed that day, but being escorted to the track for priority boarding was a new, and welcomed, feature of having select executive (and plus) status.
I really wish there was a roomette option on this route. I want to take my 5 year old to Niagara falls by train but I'm afraid without the private room to nap in and lounge around that it'll just be too long of a journey for her. thanks for sharing the beautiful ride!
I lived in upstate NY during 9/11 and a couple months before that I decided to ride to Toronto for fun. I boarded at Utica, which has a historic station... saw the Falls in the daytime, and when got to the border I recall we never got off for customs. The Mounties came onboard and checked our papers, I remember this because I thought it was just like the movies. This process you're showing here seems new(er). Anyway it was this trip that locked in a love for trains for life. It just takes one experience.
Very nice! I remember when Amtrak had 2 trains, one with sleeper car service between D.C. & Montreal (The Montrealer) that stopped at Penn Central Sta., & another all coach consist ( The Adirondack) between NY's Grand Central Station & Montreal during the '80's. There have been many cuts since then. I wish Amtrak would bring them back.
nice video. when traveling during the winter months the scenery is even 'cooler' when it is all covered in snow for most of the way. (especially true during xmas season when it's like being a kid traveling on the polar express)
Welcome to Toronto. I hope one day to make that journey in the other direction and then go to Washington, Chicago, Las Vegas NM (where I lived from 1962 to '65) then to Santa Fe (possibly by bus rather than train), Albuquerque, Los Angeles, and Seattle all by rail. Then by ferry to Victoria BC, where I also lived for a short time. Then to Vancouver and the Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper and the VIA rail train back to Toronto.
I enjoyed seeing this part of the country. My ancestors settled here and looking at the vegetation and the weather. I wonder how much different it is from then? I have read journals about train and boat trips around Niagra Falls and the Erie Canal in the 1830's and the 1850's
I recently took amtrak from Cleveland to Chicago. I would say that overall the experience was good . I had a roomette going there with coach coming back. I would say that I would do it again but not in coach. To me I would rate coach amtrak equal to greyhound. The service in any level above coach is worth it if you can afford it. If budget is your only concern then it wouldn't justify the bump in price. My roomette was quite beat up (well loved?) But it was what I was expecting. Your tips and videos helped me alot, and I thank you guys. I wish your channel the best of luck
@@GroundedLifeTravel I did the same on my last trip from Iowa to Chicago with the “bid up” feature and I decided I’ll do it the other way around on my trip next week since it’s nbd to sit next to someone on the way there especially with the 9am departure, but on the way back after a long trip, I just want to recline in peace and quiet, possibly with an alcoholic beverage from the cafe car lol.
I was born in Schenectady and have used Amtrak many times from that station but I’ve never gone north or west. I also haven’t seen it since they rebuilt it. I love your videos and I hope train travel continues to become safer and used more. Thank you for posting the music. Along with the view out the window it was mesmerizing. ❤
Thank you very much for the video. Reminded me of when I was boy, would that the train from Chicago to Buffalo on the north side of the lake, and other times riding the Montrealor from New Haven Ct to Montreal. Have a happy Christmas season!
Very interesting journey. I also took Amtrak from Vancouver to Seattle back in march 2017 and it was great. US customs was pre cleared at Vancouver pacific train station and continued on to Seattle
We took a train trip years ago . At that time we lived in Rochester ny. We took ametrac and in Niagara falls we crossed a trestle that you could look down into the gourg way below .by the time we got to Toronto a snow storm started. They had to stop the to clear the tracks .From Toronto we went to north bay , Quebec, Montreal and back Toronto...
We took this same trip in July from NYC to Niagara Falls, NY in coach, the seats were super comfy! We brought all this stuff (books, games, movies) to keep us occupied, and we ended up just watching the world go by! Would definitely do it again!
Interesting...I always believed you were Canadians. I'm getting the vibe this AMTRAK trip from NYC to Toronto (and vice versa) from your video and others is always 'interrupted'. Nice vistas of NYC and the state. You lucked-out and got a direct trip.
Great video Allie & Rob. It's too bad you only had 1/2 the window on the right side of the Maple Leaf. Regarding your crew the Onboard Amtrak Crew run between New York & Niagara Falls US. The solo Amtrak Engineer will take the train across the Border to Niagara Falls Ontario. At Niagara Falls Ontario Maple Leaf is crewed entirely by VIA Rail Crews, then vice versa on the way back. As for the snacks Amtrak will lock up their inventory & VIA Rail will bring their own snacks onboard. Look forward to seeing your VIA Rail Videos.
The direct Chicago / Toronto train was discontinued years ago, unfortunately. Take Amtrak to Detroit. Take a taxi across the border, or cheaper to use the public Tunnel Bus service (and need a local cab to Windsor VIA station. Then take train to Toronto.
We will be riding the Maple Leaf in March, but in the opposite direction. This is following a ride on The Canadian. We've done this before, and the US Customs clearance takes a bit longer.
You know, I'd taken the California Zephyr last Summer and received credit from Amtrak as a result of a delay during the last day (going through California). I have been contemplating taking a new trip more local to me, and being from Long Island this might be right up my alley. I haven't been to Niagra Falls in three decades since I went with my family as a child. I'm not overly keen on a 9+ hour trip with no sleeper car (of course I had a Roommette on the Zephyr) but I guess it's something akin to a long overseas flight on a plane. I'd taken a non-stop flight once from NYC to Tokyo, so I'm prepared.
Sorry you crossed over the Whirlpool at night at the border- the Niagara River below is quite an amazing sight. The Underground Railroad Museum at the Amtrak station is a must-see. The docents make the harrowing crossing of the escaped enslaved people into freedom and Canada come alive. You’ll have to return!
The Niagara State Park is the first State park in the nation. The trees and plantings are all native plants. It is an Olmstead park. There will be a new Visitor’s Center open for your next visit. The Canadian side has just opened the original Tesla Power Plant with explanations of how everything worked. There is a tunnel walkout to the base of the Horseshoe Falls. Exhilarating! Love your postings.
Dear Grounded Life Travel, this was a great video for me as I am thinking of taking this journey next June. However, I'm still unsure about the border crossing / customs portion. I intend to travel from NY Penn and get off at the Niagara Falls station on the Canadian side. How does the border crossing work, exactly? Thank you in advance!
I think Amtrak should standardize Business Class fleet wide with that type of 2:1 seating. Also, Albany-Rensselaer has a cafe with much better options than onboard cafe car and because of the engine change, the layover is long enough to pick up take-out.
I’ve always enjoyed the 2:1 layout even on narrow planes with regular seat widths because if you’re able to choose your seat, you can either have a little extra privacy as a solo traveler or if you’re traveling with someone you can still sit next to them if you want. Not that I mind sitting next to a stranger, but in my experience it seems like I always end up next to someone who I get along wonderfully with or they seemingly have no clue how to behave in public, rarely is there any in between, I guess maybe I should just be glad that, unlike with other modes, I can always escape to the observation lounge lol.
Yeah it's nice, but I doubt they ever would on the Northeast Corridor (outside of Acela 1st class) The ridership is too high and too much money is being made to ever give up those seats.
If there was a train line that would be great to upgrade would be the Maple Leaf line. I would go to Niagara Falls every year if they did Lol Great vid!
I am hoping the Amtrak from NYC to Montreal will return soon. It is a couple of hours less, also less expensive, and we don't change trains at the border.
Hello Guys, Nice video. I'm thinking about doing a few trips by Amtrak again cause of your videos. Been years since I last traveled by Amtrak. Thanks. BTW, what is incidental music title? Music really accommodates video. Thanks
I did this journey, in the opposite direction, from Toronto Union to New York Penn on the AMTRAK Maple Leaf (having done this train twice between Toronto and Niagara Falls, Ontario and back only). I think you sat on the wrong side, as the other side has superb views of the Hudson River, and Lake Erie. Personally, I prefer the Coach Class in Amfleet 1 coaches, as the seats are more comfortable and you avoid of the heat and disturbance of sitting with the café. Always good to alight in Albany, and watch the loco change. They would have swapped # 700 (the P32AC-DM) for a P42DC at Albany. There are restrooms on the train, you know ! The southbound train also sees Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls in the daylight.
@@GroundedLifeTravel That explains it. I often do the same, if I repeat rail journeys. I think my other comments are still valid though. Not ridden the Ethan Allen, but I can recommend the Vermonter to St Albans, VT. I have covered every rail line in Canada (except Churchill), including some remote ones like Schefferville and Moosonee. I have also done all FIVE railways in Alaska. I have done every railway in Britain, Ireland, Portugal, Norway, and most of the rest of Europe. Regards from London, England.
First, I am liking the incidental music selection on this one. Second, it seems very strange to me that the same train has different menu items in the US versus in Canada.
@@GroundedLifeTravel I'm going to keep Business Class in mind for when I do get the chance to get back up to Toronto. Thanks again your videos I find them very helpful. 👍👍👍👍
Been watching your videos before my upcoming trip. I sure hope the customer service on the train is better that what I have received from their online and phone contacts so far. Already the worst travel experience I’ve had
Were there Canadian Customs declaration forms given to both of you inside the train? I just wanted to ask because I watched a video of vloggers given U.S. Customs declaration forms for them to fill up inside the train when they were about to enter a U.S. Customs building.
We took the Maple Leaf from NYC to Niagara Falls, ON in October. I've been watching your vids for a while and was excited to try the train experience. This was our first train trip as I wanted to try a shorter route before trying a longer trip. While the fall foliage scenery was beautiful, I was less than impressed with the train experience. We were in business class. We waited in line for a long time. When it was time for us to board, a guy from the back of the line ran to get in front of everyone. Guess he was anxious to get a good seat. Except for getting complementary beverages, the food was awful, only one of the bathrooms worked and people from coach sat in business class just because they wanted to and no one made them move back. The best part was that conductor Bob cleaned the windows himself when we stopped in Albany, so the business class passengers could have a better view. That was definitely going above and beyond. I'm rethinking whether or not its worth it to try the train again.
@@GroundedLifeTravel According to You, sold ALL your things including home to Travel by Train, it supposed to be enjoyable, I went from NYP to Hamilton, Ontario by Amtrak Train, it's about 12 hours trip, Later & Enjoy your adventure.
My wife and I did a round trip from the City of Ottawa to New York City with the train many years ago and it is very scenic but slow. The view of the Hudson River and Lake Champlain are wonderful.
I am confused about the pricing. I have asked an Amtrak rep but I was more confused after our conversation than I was before. When I go to book a trip. I put in that it will be two seniors traveling. I can chose between coach or a sleeper. If I chose the sleeper, let's say the price is $800.00, is that the total cost for both passengers, and does this cover the cost if you have to change trains? I hope you understand what I am asking, and I thank you for any help you can provide me.
I took this trip soon after they started running again this fall. Running along the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains, the Mohawk River, and the Erie Canal is one of the world's best rail trips. So, why did you sit and film on the wrong side of the train?
The better views going north from NYC are actually found facing the Hudson River on the other side of the train. These views aren’t nearly as good of as interesting. This from someone that’s familiar with this train and takes it more frequently
How do you keep yourself occupied on a 12 hour train? Are you able to nap in those chairs? I have never considered taking the train to Toronto because it's so long. For me, the total time traveling by plane door to door from Newark to Billy Bishop is usually about 5 hours. I do love your channel though.
Maybe you wanted two seats together, but you missed showing mile after mile of Hudson River views and numerous bridges on the left side of the train. Instead, seats on the right get what one commenter called urban blight. Nonetheless, I enjoy your videos and look forward to the VIA rides.
@@GroundedLifeTravel I’m familiar with the issue with using credit cards from country to country, but was there an opportunity to obtain Canadian currency during the AMTRAK experience or at customs?
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks! Great news. I'll have to check out the connections. I think the Starlight goes to Vancouver BC, but I didn't know there was a connection to Amtrak in the east. Thence to Chicago, and the Zephyr back to Sacramento. I wish they'd bring back the Feather River route -- Western Pacific, I think.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Don't go to a bank or currency exchange as they burn you on the exchange rate. Just pay US$ at a merchant & you will get a better exchange rate. 99.9% of all Merchants up here in Canada will accept US Currency.
Always love your videos but the urban blight and industrial decay did not make me want to ride that train! I would prefer a more scenic ride. I hope the destination was more fun than getting there!
The other side of the train follows the Hudson River which is pretty scenic. I would take it later in the winter when there's snow or during spring/summer when it's very green. The end of fall/early winter can be too gloomy without the beauty of snow
The Hudson River side of the train between NYC and Albany is a beautiful ride- you can see gorgeous scenery, some impressive bridges, West Point, lots of bald eagles ( on the ice in the winter, visible sitting on their nests especially in the spring before tree leaf out, say March - four nests are visible just between the town of Hudson north to Albany!), other wildlife, and some charming lighthouses! But sit on the river side. Love your videos.
I’ll never understand why Amtrak wouldn’t just train drivers to be able to drive in Canada and the US and further expand service to Toronto and other Canadian cities from say Detroit or more regular service from buffalo. It’s such a waste if they spent money to make trains legal in Canada why not make drivers too. Or better yet have a driver base in Niagara Falls Canada so Via doesn’t have to do anything but allow the trains to run, Edit: I also feel like you guys should make a video on what your status gets you at Amtrak and the various levels. I’ve never seen a video on this before only airline status
There was a line that went to Montreal and there was another line from Detroit, but unfortunately there was not enough ridership and Amtrak eliminated the lines. The only other crossborder train is between Seattle and Vancouver
I wasn't that impressed with this video. I wish you had named the rivers/lakes the train was passing. I don't know if I'd want to take this trip by train.
Thanks for the video. It took 12 hours. So, you averaged about 40mph. You can drive it in around 8. We can’t have high speed rail. It’s more important to give 10’s of billions to Ukraine. Nice! I felt I was watching a slow motion tour of dilapidated US cities. So, what is the round trip cost for two with food without discounts?
It was great seeing you folks in the Metropolitan Lounge at the Moynihan Station. Both of you were extremely gracious and my wife was thrilled to see the pictures that you took with me - thank you.
My train to DC was really delayed that day, but being escorted to the track for priority boarding was a new, and welcomed, feature of having select executive (and plus) status.
It was great to talk to you too! Thanks and glad you had a good trip!
I really wish there was a roomette option on this route. I want to take my 5 year old to Niagara falls by train but I'm afraid without the private room to nap in and lounge around that it'll just be too long of a journey for her. thanks for sharing the beautiful ride!
Thanks! You could take the Lake Shore Limited to Buffalo, stay the night and then ride a short distance the next day. The Lake Shore has roomettes.
@@GroundedLifeTravel ahh! wonderful! I never would have thought of that. thank you so much!
I’m leaving for NYC this evening and Niagara Falls tomorrow morning. Solo traveler soaking up all of the info I can.
How was your trip?
I lived in upstate NY during 9/11 and a couple months before that I decided to ride to Toronto for fun. I boarded at Utica, which has a historic station... saw the Falls in the daytime, and when got to the border I recall we never got off for customs. The Mounties came onboard and checked our papers, I remember this because I thought it was just like the movies. This process you're showing here seems new(er). Anyway it was this trip that locked in a love for trains for life. It just takes one experience.
WOWWW! What a great way to start my morning & weekend watching one of your travel videos. Enjoy Toronto!
Thanks so much! Having a great time and heading to Montreal soon!
Wow, what a great trip. Thank you for taking us along.
Thanks for watching!
How cool! You went through my city in Rochester! Thank you for such awesome videos. I always look forward to watching them when they come out !
Thank you!
Very nice! I remember when Amtrak had 2 trains, one with sleeper car service between D.C. & Montreal (The Montrealer) that stopped at Penn Central Sta., & another all coach consist ( The Adirondack) between NY's Grand Central Station & Montreal during the '80's. There have been many cuts since then. I wish Amtrak would bring them back.
That is great! We are hoping at least the Adirondack comes back soon. Would have made our current trip easier!
@@GroundedLifeTravel It will be fully back by Spring 2023!!!
Love that you visited Canada!! 🎉 🎉 I watch your videos all the time and am learning so much about travelling by Amtrak.
Thanks! We are loving Canada so far!
Aww, thank you. I literally asked for this a couple of months ago and you guys provided. Forever subbed.😊
Hope you like it!
I've been curious about this route as its something on our bucket list! Thank you for sharing!
We thought it was very interesting! You'd be able to see the crossing better in the summer I think.
nice video. when traveling during the winter months the scenery is even 'cooler' when it is all covered in snow
for most of the way. (especially true during xmas season when it's like being a kid traveling on the polar express)
Yes, agreed!
Welcome to Toronto. I hope one day to make that journey in the other direction and then go to Washington, Chicago, Las Vegas NM (where I lived from 1962 to '65) then to Santa Fe (possibly by bus rather than train), Albuquerque, Los Angeles, and Seattle all by rail. Then by ferry to Victoria BC, where I also lived for a short time. Then to Vancouver and the Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper and the VIA rail train back to Toronto.
Thanks! Wow, that would be an incredible trip!
I enjoyed seeing this part of the country. My ancestors settled here and looking at the vegetation and the weather. I wonder how much different it is from then? I have read journals about train and boat trips around Niagra Falls and the Erie Canal in the 1830's and the 1850's
We wonder the same, thanks for watching!
I recently took amtrak from Cleveland to Chicago. I would say that overall the experience was good . I had a roomette going there with coach coming back. I would say that I would do it again but not in coach. To me I would rate coach amtrak equal to greyhound. The service in any level above coach is worth it if you can afford it. If budget is your only concern then it wouldn't justify the bump in price. My roomette was quite beat up (well loved?) But it was what I was expecting. Your tips and videos helped me alot, and I thank you guys. I wish your channel the best of luck
Thanks so much! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
@@GroundedLifeTravel I did the same on my last trip from Iowa to Chicago with the “bid up” feature and I decided I’ll do it the other way around on my trip next week since it’s nbd to sit next to someone on the way there especially with the 9am departure, but on the way back after a long trip, I just want to recline in peace and quiet, possibly with an alcoholic beverage from the cafe car lol.
I was born in Schenectady and have used Amtrak many times from that station but I’ve never gone north or west. I also haven’t seen it since they rebuilt it. I love your videos and I hope train travel continues to become safer and used more. Thank you for posting the music. Along with the view out the window it was mesmerizing. ❤
Thank you so much!
I did this trip Years ago. From Toronto to New York City Return.. Nice train Ride Great Staff on both sides.
Yes they are!
Thank you very much for the video. Reminded me of when I was boy, would that the train from Chicago to Buffalo on the north side of the lake, and other times riding the Montrealor from New Haven Ct to Montreal. Have a happy Christmas season!
Thank you!
Wow amazing video. Im doing this journey on the 27th but from Toronto to NYC. Im really excited as its my first train journey across the border.
Thanks, have a great trip!
With no roomette available Business Class is the next best thing. Good Video!
Thanks! Yes!
Very interesting journey. I also took Amtrak from Vancouver to Seattle back in march 2017 and it was great. US customs was pre cleared at Vancouver pacific train station and continued on to Seattle
Very cool!
We took a train trip years ago . At that time we lived in Rochester ny. We took ametrac and in Niagara falls we crossed a trestle that you could look down into the gourg way below .by the time we got to Toronto a snow storm started. They had to stop the to clear the tracks .From Toronto we went to north bay , Quebec, Montreal and back Toronto...
Great story, thanks for sharing!
My wife and I did this in October. Had a great trip to Niagara Falls
That's so cool, we have our eye on that one!
Hello take the train from Toronto to Penn Station in the 90 Teese and it was very lovely I enjoy every moment of my trip on the train good job guy's 👏
Thanks!
❤
Thanks
Have a wonderful trip
Thank you!
We took this same trip in July from NYC to Niagara Falls, NY in coach, the seats were super comfy! We brought all this stuff (books, games, movies) to keep us occupied, and we ended up just watching the world go by! Would definitely do it again!
Awesome!
Awesome! 🙌
Thank you!
yay you're in my city/country!! hope you love Toronto!
Thanks! We are loving it!
Always a pleasure traveling with you guys. Fun to see the start of your Canadian adventure. 👏👏👏
Thanks!
Interesting...I always believed you were Canadians. I'm getting the vibe this AMTRAK trip from NYC to Toronto (and vice versa) from your video and others is always 'interrupted'. Nice vistas of NYC and the state. You lucked-out and got a direct trip.
Welcome to 🇨🇦. Enjoy your stay and enjoy VIA Rail
Thanks! We are heading to Montreal now, it has been great so far!
@@GroundedLifeTravel So are you going on the via ocean to Halifax. I have done Moncton to Montreal on the ocean numerous times.
Always happy joint your Amtrak with exclusive train, thanks for This epic video, greetings from Indonesia. 25:45
You guys are awesome but wow you should've been on left side of train from the city to Albany.
Great video Allie & Rob. It's too bad you only had 1/2 the window on the right side of the Maple Leaf. Regarding your crew the Onboard Amtrak Crew run between New York & Niagara Falls US. The solo Amtrak Engineer will take the train across the Border to Niagara Falls Ontario. At Niagara Falls Ontario Maple Leaf is crewed entirely by VIA Rail Crews, then vice versa on the way back. As for the snacks Amtrak will lock up their inventory & VIA Rail will bring their own snacks onboard. Look forward to seeing your VIA Rail Videos.
Thanks! Really looking forward to being on VIA Rail!
I'm thinking of going from Chicago to Toronto; I wondered how the border crossing worked via the Maple Leaf. This was great to see.
The direct Chicago / Toronto train was discontinued years ago, unfortunately. Take Amtrak to Detroit. Take a taxi across the border, or cheaper to use the public Tunnel Bus service (and need a local cab to Windsor VIA station. Then take train to Toronto.
@@haweater1555 Yes, I know. I wasn’t planning to go direct. I will stop in NYC to see a friend, then go on to Canada.
Keep up the good 👍👍 work ☺️.
Thanks!
We will be riding the Maple Leaf in March, but in the opposite direction. This is following a ride on The Canadian. We've done this before, and the US Customs clearance takes a bit longer.
Thanks for the tips
Our pleasure
Nice. I'm gonna watch this in reverse, since I'm doing Toronto to NYC later this year.
You know, I'd taken the California Zephyr last Summer and received credit from Amtrak as a result of a delay during the last day (going through California). I have been contemplating taking a new trip more local to me, and being from Long Island this might be right up my alley. I haven't been to Niagra Falls in three decades since I went with my family as a child.
I'm not overly keen on a 9+ hour trip with no sleeper car (of course I had a Roommette on the Zephyr) but I guess it's something akin to a long overseas flight on a plane. I'd taken a non-stop flight once from NYC to Tokyo, so I'm prepared.
Sorry you crossed over the Whirlpool at night at the border- the Niagara River below is quite an amazing sight. The Underground Railroad Museum at the Amtrak station is a must-see. The docents make the harrowing crossing of the escaped enslaved people into freedom and Canada come alive. You’ll have to return!
Yes, we will! There is no way to get there in time to see in the winter, but, next time!
The Niagara State Park is the first State park in the nation. The trees and plantings are all native plants. It is an Olmstead park. There will be a new Visitor’s Center open for your next visit. The Canadian side has just opened the original Tesla Power Plant with explanations of how everything worked. There is a tunnel walkout to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
Exhilarating! Love your postings.
Another awesome video...thank you! You are the best! You are the only videos (of this type) that I watch! Suggestion: How about a trip across Canada?
We are about to do it soon! Thank you!
@@GroundedLifeTravel I'm looking forward to it. Thanks much!
Dear Grounded Life Travel, this was a great video for me as I am thinking of taking this journey next June. However, I'm still unsure about the border crossing / customs portion. I intend to travel from NY Penn and get off at the Niagara Falls station on the Canadian side. How does the border crossing work, exactly? Thank you in advance!
I think Amtrak should standardize Business Class fleet wide with that type of 2:1 seating. Also, Albany-Rensselaer has a cafe with much better options than onboard cafe car and because of the engine change, the layover is long enough to pick up take-out.
I’ve always enjoyed the 2:1 layout even on narrow planes with regular seat widths because if you’re able to choose your seat, you can either have a little extra privacy as a solo traveler or if you’re traveling with someone you can still sit next to them if you want. Not that I mind sitting next to a stranger, but in my experience it seems like I always end up next to someone who I get along wonderfully with or they seemingly have no clue how to behave in public, rarely is there any in between, I guess maybe I should just be glad that, unlike with other modes, I can always escape to the observation lounge lol.
Yeah it's nice, but I doubt they ever would on the Northeast Corridor (outside of Acela 1st class) The ridership is too high and too much money is being made to ever give up those seats.
If there was a train line that would be great to upgrade would be the Maple Leaf line. I would go to Niagara Falls every year if they did Lol Great vid!
Thanks!
I am hoping the Amtrak from NYC to Montreal will return soon. It is a couple of hours less, also less expensive, and we don't change trains at the border.
We are too, we think it will be back soon
Hello Guys, Nice video. I'm thinking about doing a few trips by Amtrak again cause of your videos. Been years since I last traveled by Amtrak. Thanks.
BTW, what is incidental music title? Music really accommodates video. Thanks
Thanks!
Welcome!
I did this journey, in the opposite direction, from Toronto Union to New York Penn on the AMTRAK Maple Leaf (having done this train twice between Toronto and Niagara Falls, Ontario and back only). I think you sat on the wrong side, as the other side has superb views of the Hudson River, and Lake Erie. Personally, I prefer the Coach Class in Amfleet 1 coaches, as the seats are more comfortable and you avoid of the heat and disturbance of sitting with the café. Always good to alight in Albany, and watch the loco change. They would have swapped # 700 (the P32AC-DM) for a P42DC at Albany. There are restrooms on the train, you know ! The southbound train also sees Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls in the daylight.
We rode the Ethan Allen earlier in the week and sat on that side so we wanted to mix it up, but we haven't posted that one yet.
@@GroundedLifeTravel That explains it. I often do the same, if I repeat rail journeys. I think my other comments are still valid though. Not ridden the Ethan Allen, but I can recommend the Vermonter to St Albans, VT. I have covered every rail line in Canada (except Churchill), including some remote ones like Schefferville and Moosonee. I have also done all FIVE railways in Alaska. I have done every railway in Britain, Ireland, Portugal, Norway, and most of the rest of Europe. Regards from London, England.
This looks as if it would be a great trip in Summer for the weather and light into Toronto
But still enjoyed it anyway
You would have more light and see more in the summer for sure.
Amtrak and Via rail is so much better than Greyhound!
Not better then the greyhound and mega bus from here in Cleveland to Toronto and the layover in Buffalo is nice got the Tim Hortons
It would be easyier If NY Pennsylvania Station had a preclearence check point to check baggage.
First, I am liking the incidental music selection on this one. Second, it seems very strange to me that the same train has different menu items in the US versus in Canada.
We weren't sure how they'd do the menu either, and we were a little surprised too!
And the staff is different, with VIA Rail uniforms!
Every time I visited Toronto I went by the Amtrak Maple Leaf - Via Rail. but I didn't know the had a Business Class.
It just one car and was in the very back, easy to miss!
@@GroundedLifeTravel I'm going to keep Business Class in mind for when I do get the chance to get back up to Toronto. Thanks again your videos I find them very helpful. 👍👍👍👍
Since you got there after dark, which hotel did you stay at?
Been watching your videos before my upcoming trip. I sure hope the customer service on the train is better that what I have received from their online and phone contacts so far. Already the worst travel experience I’ve had
Were there Canadian Customs declaration forms given to both of you inside the train? I just wanted to ask because I watched a video of vloggers given U.S. Customs declaration forms for them to fill up inside the train when they were about to enter a U.S. Customs building.
We took the Maple Leaf from NYC to Niagara Falls, ON in October. I've been watching your vids for a while and was excited to try the train experience. This was our first train trip as I wanted to try a shorter route before trying a longer trip. While the fall foliage scenery was beautiful, I was less than impressed with the train experience. We were in business class. We waited in line for a long time. When it was time for us to board, a guy from the back of the line ran to get in front of everyone. Guess he was anxious to get a good seat. Except for getting complementary beverages, the food was awful, only one of the bathrooms worked and people from coach sat in business class just because they wanted to and no one made them move back. The best part was that conductor Bob cleaned the windows himself when we stopped in Albany, so the business class passengers could have a better view. That was definitely going above and beyond. I'm rethinking whether or not its worth it to try the train again.
Thanks! Wow, I've never seen anyone clean the windows on a trip, he must have been good!
Quite a bit different snack wise from the Canada Rail trip Toronto to Vancouver
Very true
Surprised you didn’t sit on the more scenic Hudson River side of the train.
In Business Class the single seats are on that side, and we had just seen it on the Ethan Allen, but that video isn't uploaded yet.
i was just looking up Via Rail for summer \. Idk NY had trains that cross the border. I'm stuck crossing Detroit to Windsor then the train.
Yes you can go NY to Toronto and soon NY to Montreal!
Where did you stay after arriving in Toronto?
The seats look comfortable. Were plant based lunch options available on the train and at the Niagara Falls station?
There were some vegetarian options. We didn't have time for food at the Niagara Falls station and we didn't see any.
Is the window yellow / dirty enough for me to rather opt for a car rental to go to Niagara instead of the Amtrak? It costs the same.
I live in New York City I though you guys would have ended the to Toronto, I saw a trip yesterday from Toronto to Vancouver 5 days trips,
We started in NYC and it was a long trip!
@@GroundedLifeTravel I know, AFTER crossing the border few second that was the ended of the Video, I thought you guys would reach Toronto, Nice Trip.
@@GroundedLifeTravel According to You, sold ALL your things including home to Travel by Train, it supposed to be enjoyable, I went from NYP to Hamilton, Ontario by Amtrak Train, it's about 12 hours trip, Later & Enjoy your adventure.
How long from New York to Toronto ? Sounds like adventure trip for me! ❤
I think it was 12 hours
Have you ever taken Amtrak to Montreal? There are Montreal stations listed on the Amtrak site but I can never find a trip in the online scheduler.
The Adirondack to Montreal is currently listed as being suspended. There are issues with the condition of the track north of Albany
We've been told they are bringing back the service to Montreal soon, but not yet. It'll be great when they do!
My wife and I did a round trip from the City of Ottawa to New York City with the train many years ago and it is very scenic but slow. The view of the Hudson River and Lake Champlain are wonderful.
Im going alone how do i book a single seat? I dont want someone next to me because i need sleep thanks and good video
How do I get Canadian Card that's supposed to be filled out before the border
From newyork to toranto is it nessary to have Canadian visa??did they check any visa ?
I am confused about the pricing. I have asked an Amtrak rep but I was more confused after our conversation than I was before.
When I go to book a trip. I put in that it will be two seniors traveling. I can chose between coach or a sleeper. If I chose the sleeper, let's say the price is $800.00, is that the total cost for both passengers, and does this cover the cost if you have to change trains?
I hope you understand what I am asking, and I thank you for any help you can provide me.
hello, I want to know if the ask for pcr test or vaccinal pass before embarkation on train thanks
Where do you get the bag tags from ?
Hey guys, you are in my city nyc
I would like to take this trip, when is the best time? Thanks
Just a quick question , why is Toronto referred to "Toronto , Canada" instead of "Toronto , Ontario"?
I also wish it was a bit faster. 12 hours for ~800KM seems a bit slow. Some trains can make the same journey in 8hours
I took this trip soon after they started running again this fall. Running along the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains, the Mohawk River, and the Erie Canal is one of the world's best rail trips. So, why did you sit and film on the wrong side of the train?
We did the west side earlier in the week on the Ethan Allen.
How did you book this trip? I could not find any tickets to Toronto on their app.
New York to Toronto should show up
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks. I guess it’s just same-day booking that is unavailable or something.
The better views going north from NYC are actually found facing the Hudson River on the other side of the train. These views aren’t nearly as good of as interesting. This from someone that’s familiar with this train and takes it more frequently
We sat on that side on the Lake Shore Limited several times and the Ethan Allen, so we wanted to see the other side.
How do you keep yourself occupied on a 12 hour train? Are you able to nap in those chairs? I have never considered taking the train to Toronto because it's so long. For me, the total time traveling by plane door to door from Newark to Billy Bishop is usually about 5 hours.
I do love your channel though.
Thanks, yes we sleep some and watch a movie usually
Does the Wi-Fi work?
Maybe you wanted two seats together, but you missed showing mile after mile of Hudson River views and numerous bridges on the left side of the train. Instead, seats on the right get what one commenter called urban blight. Nonetheless, I enjoy your videos and look forward to the VIA rides.
Yes, we did. We did that side on the Ethan Allen earlier in the week. Video hasn't posted yet though.
Where do you stay in NYC? Is there a hotel convenient to Moynihan Train Hall?
Yes the Fairfield is right across the street
Perfect. Thank you. After a long trip from NC, and a late arrival, getting to my hotel was a hassle. I’ll try the Fairfield next time!
Do you switch trains to via rail once you cross the border or you stay on the same amtrak train?
It's the same train but a different crew
Question- Did the cafe switch currencies along with the menu choices?
It did!
@@GroundedLifeTravel I’m familiar with the issue with using credit cards from country to country, but was there an opportunity to obtain Canadian currency during the AMTRAK experience or at customs?
@@donhorvat1931, try not to exchange currency at travel stops. They’ll gouge you. Better to do it at your bank before you leave.
Well this is embarrassing...I didn't even know the route was back in service... 😳 🇨🇦
Just waiting on the Adirondack now!
If this train connects Toronto and NYC, is it actually possible to take the train from here, Sacramento CA, to NYC via Via?
Yes you can ride the Canadian across Canada and connect to the USA on both ends.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks! Great news. I'll have to check out the connections. I think the Starlight goes to Vancouver BC, but I didn't know there was a connection to Amtrak in the east. Thence to Chicago, and the Zephyr back to Sacramento. I wish they'd bring back the Feather River route -- Western Pacific, I think.
Where do you get the amtrak coupons at?
They just put them in your account for various things, usually qualifying for elite status does it.
What is the criteria for select executive status?
www.groundedlifetravel.com/complete-guide-to-amtrak-guest-rewards-points-and-upgrade-coupons/
Thank you!
Which river is this? Middle of the stream
Hudson River
Do you need a passport and if so, where do you show it at?
Yes you get off at the border and then get back
@@GroundedLifeTravelThanks !
Where would you do a currency exchange?
You would need to go to a bank in Toronto I think after arriving.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Don't go to a bank or currency exchange as they burn you on the exchange rate. Just pay US$ at a merchant & you will get a better exchange rate. 99.9% of all Merchants up here in Canada will accept US Currency.
Would I need a Passport to enter Canada via Amtrak? I would be coming from NYC.
Yes you would, a physical ticket, and labels for all your belongings, checked or not cheecked bags.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783can't you just use a nexus card or
Always love your videos but the urban blight and industrial decay did not make me want to ride that train! I would prefer a more scenic ride. I hope the destination was more fun than getting there!
Thanks! We are liking Toronto quite a bit so far, on to Montreal soon.
The other side of the train follows the Hudson River which is pretty scenic. I would take it later in the winter when there's snow or during spring/summer when it's very green. The end of fall/early winter can be too gloomy without the beauty of snow
The Hudson River side of the train between NYC and Albany is a beautiful ride- you can see gorgeous scenery, some impressive bridges, West Point, lots of bald eagles ( on the ice in the winter, visible sitting on their nests especially in the spring before tree leaf out, say March - four nests are visible just between the town of Hudson north to Albany!), other wildlife, and some charming lighthouses! But sit on the river side. Love your videos.
@@barbaraloucks5091 I rode the Adirondack to Montreal, the trip along the Hudson was indeed beautiful!
Looks pretty dreary, to me.
The weather wasn't the best that day
Business Class = No lounge access 😒
I’ll never understand why Amtrak wouldn’t just train drivers to be able to drive in Canada and the US and further expand service to Toronto and other Canadian cities from say Detroit or more regular service from buffalo. It’s such a waste if they spent money to make trains legal in Canada why not make drivers too. Or better yet have a driver base in Niagara Falls Canada so Via doesn’t have to do anything but allow the trains to run,
Edit: I also feel like you guys should make a video on what your status gets you at Amtrak and the various levels. I’ve never seen a video on this before only airline status
It has everything to do with the international border... I'm sure it had to do with different laws, different rules for railroad employees, etc...
There was a line that went to Montreal and there was another line from Detroit, but unfortunately there was not enough ridership and Amtrak eliminated the lines. The only other crossborder train is between Seattle and Vancouver
Unions would not permit foreign staff to operate in either country. Never going to happen.
@@garywagner2466 that logic is stupid. They are willingly giving their jobs to someone else lol
I wasn't that impressed with this video. I wish you had named the rivers/lakes the train was passing. I don't know if I'd want to take this trip by train.
Thanks for the video. It took 12 hours. So, you averaged about 40mph. You can drive it in around 8. We can’t have high speed rail. It’s more important to give 10’s of billions to Ukraine. Nice!
I felt I was watching a slow motion tour of dilapidated US cities.
So, what is the round trip cost for two with food without discounts?