My partner and I traveled to NYC via Amtrak train. We left from Lynchburg VA. The station attendant there was very rude in that when we asked him questions about where to park and about our baggage, he would roll his eyes and in a very condescending voice, tell us. He did not seem to enjoy his job or helping customers.
Once our train arrived, however, we were surrounded by friendly and helpful staff. The conductors made sure we found our reserved seats in coach and made us feel welcomed. Unfortunately, I did not get any names but it was the #20 train from Lynchburg, VA to Penn Station in NCY. Thanks for your great treatment!
Our trip back was another story! The Amtrak personnel at Penn Station were rude in that this was our first time taking Amtrak and had no idea where to go to await our train. The lady at the customer service desk (what a joke) was rude and told us we would just have to wait as we were too early. When we finally caught onto what we were supposed to do when our train arrived, we lined up to get on the track our train was on (#142, I think). The staff just yelled "keep moving" as my partner tried waiting for me to catch up. We were herded like cattle. Then no one was waiting outside the train to ensure we got in the right car. We had reserved tickets in coach but had to find our own seats. Those who got on later had to desperately find a seat on their own, as the train was fully booked and no conductor/staff even tried to help. Riders had to put their own luggage on the high racks (some were older and had great difficulty doing this). The staff was very rude when getting tickets and unfriendly.
Thankfully, once we stopped at D.C. To change engines/motors, the new staff was very helpful and friendly. Ricky, our conductor, informed us of upcoming stops and gave us ETA for each station. He kindly answered any questions and was cheerful.
Our first impression of Amtrak was very negative. Our biggest concern was with Amtrak waiting area/station in Penn Station, NYC.
We traveled to NYC from Lynchburg, VA Wed Nov. 23 to Penn Station and left on Amtrak from Penn Station (NYC) to Lynchburg, VA Sat. Nov. 27.
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