Considering that non-stop train service between Portland and Vancouver didn't even exist a year ago, and we only got it because of the Olympics, we should be thankful for what we have.

I would settle for an overnight train between Portland and Vancouver. There's no reason why we should waste nine hours of a perfectly good day going in either direction. Ideally, we should be able to leave Portland Friday night, spend the weekend in Vancouver, and arrive back home Monday morning.

I spent three months in Europe last year and took an overnight train every day or two to a new city; even when there were high-speed options available. You save on lodging and waste zero hours of the day traveling.

Thank you, Andy!

Your comments - all of them - are right on spot!

A logical approach to rail-based passenger service planning REQUIRES an intimate knowledge of passenger railroading...which, especially in North America, includes things like cold drink and hot food, comfortable (and varied) seating, and, yes, OVERNIGHT TRAINS with SLEEPING CARS!

Time efficiency when traveling is worth FAR more than most people understand.

Garl B. Latham
Dallas, Texas