Hello Reader,

This week: more Gold Runner service and a booking tip that can save you money.

The Gold Runner returns to seven daily trips.

The Gold Runner resumed its seventh daily departure on December 8, restoring service that was paused during the pandemic. The extra trip runs between Modesto and Sacramento with more stops along the route.

This expansion is part of the Valley Rail Project, which aims to improve rail connections between Sacramento and the San Joaquin Valley. My Gold Runner post reflects the new schedule.

Amtrak booking tip: double-check before declining an upgrade

Here's something I've noticed after booking hundreds of Amtrak trips. If your itinerary includes a sleeper train and a regional train that offers Business Class, the initial price often includes Business Class on those connecting segments, whether you wanted it or not.

For example, I recently booked a trip from Milwaukee Airport to Mobile, AL, with connections through Chicago and New Orleans. When I checked the fare, Amtrak had automatically selected Business Class on the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service along with my City of New Orleans roomette.

Amtrak assumes that if you're booking a sleeper, you want Business Class or sleepers on your other trains. Sometimes it's worth it, sometimes it's not.

Here's a tip: if the price looks higher than expected, click through and review the class of service for each segment. You can often switch regional trains from Business Class to Coach while keeping your sleeper accommodations. This simple change can significantly lower the overall costs.

What has Kev been up to?

Last Friday, I visited a local brewery for bingo night and won a four-pack!

It's been a busy week beyond that. If your other job is as a church organist, December is intense, but this year I'm adding something extra: playing organ for two silent films this Saturday. They're coming together nicely, and I'm excited to show that the organ can do more than just church work!

Bringing things to a close

Thank you for your ongoing support. Your messages and other kinds of encouragement mean a lot to me and help keep the website and newsletter running. I couldn't do it without you!

Interested in supporting this work? Check out my Patreon or other support options, or hit the green button below. Can't contribute right now? No problem; just sharing this with fellow travelers helps more than you know!

Until Next Week…Happy Holidays!

Safe travels & Happy Planning,
Kev Monteith