Hello Reader,

ALL ABOARD for this week’s newsletter!

New Amtrak cars are coming.

You may have heard that the new Amtrak Airo trains are set to launch in 2026, offering a modern and more comfortable experience for train travel across the U.S. These state-of-the-art trains will replace equipment on key routes, featuring larger windows, enhanced seating, faster acceleration, and improved fuel efficiency.

Passengers can also anticipate improved lighting, upgraded Wi-Fi, ample storage, and a sleeker, more modern design. The Airo trains will operate more quietly than current cars and be more environmentally friendly, utilizing energy-efficient technology to minimize fuel consumption and emissions.

According to Amtrak, these train sets will operate on routes throughout the country, including Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Amtrak Virginia Service, Keystone Service, Amtrak Downeaste, Amtrak Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven-Springfield-Greenfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, and Adirondack. These cars will free up older cars to be rebuilt and updated to extend Amtrak service or, in some cases, allow certain cars to be retired.

It’s an exciting time for train travel! Would you like to learn more? Check out the full details from Railway Supply and Amtrak’s official announcement.

Conceptual photos of the coach cab and coach car and a view inside showcasing the coach seats. Photo courtesy of Amtrak.

Take Amtrak (or Brightline) to the Magic of Disney World!

Did you know you can take a train to the Walt Disney World Resort?

Amtrak provides a convenient way to travel to the most magical place on Earth without the stress of driving or flying. Unless you choose the Auto Train, then some driving will be necessary.

My latest guide outlines the best routes, station options, and tips to ensure your smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family with kids, or a Disney fan seeking a new way to arrive, this article has everything you need!

🎟️ Ready to plan your train trip to Disney? Read more here!​

What has Kev been doing?

Recently, I have been focused on preparing for the upcoming silent film I will accompany on the organ. It’s going well, but—like anything worth doing—it requires time, patience, and a lot of practice. With just a few weeks to refine everything, I’m balancing excitement with the reality of even more rehearsals.

This week, I decided to refresh some of my travel gear and upgrade to a new iPad. My goal? To dive back into video and audio podcasting! I’m looking forward to twice the memory, improved cameras, and a much smoother experience overall.

The downside? Upgrading means updating all the accessories—cases, cables, and more. Fortunately, I began the process when I got my new phone, so I’m already on the right track. If you’re interested in helping, I’ve refreshed my wishlist, but no pressure—whether you contribute or not, you’re still awesome in my book!

Regarding travel, I’m still a few weeks away from taking a short train trip to Chicago before flying to my sister’s. In the meantime, I sense a Metra day trip on the horizon. There’s something about a brief train ride that clears my mind and gets me out of the house—plus, it helps me stay attuned to the rhythm of travel.

I sent out postcards this week. If you would like one, you can join Patreon.

Looking at the Markers 🚂

Thanks for reading this newsletter and for contacting me! I also want to thank those who support my work, ensuring it will be available when you and others need it.

To help keep things going, visit my support page, join Patreon, or use the green button at the bottom of the newsletter.

Together, we’re inspiring more people to explore the world—one train trip at a time! 🚆✨

Until Next Week…

Happy planning and safe travels,
Kev Monteith