[space-on-s]

I'm looking at transit between Seattle and Portland. I see that the Amtrak Cascade line runs between the two cities. Has anyone ever ridden either the Coast Starlight or the Cascade line in this region? I am considering riding the starlight down to Portland and then riding the business class cascade train back up to Seattle. Heading down the Portland will be somewhat of a "vacation" and I hear that the starlight offers some great views. If time isn't a big issue is riding the train to soak in the view worth it? The trip back to Seattle will be more about timliness. Do Amtrak trains really attract unsavory people like everyone says or is it a legit means of transportation?

[WumibBesowe]

I haven't ridden it in the Northwest but I've ridden the Coast Starlight between LA and Oakland. So obviously it is true about it attracting unsavory people.

Seriously though I'm not sure what you mean about unsavory people. I didn't see any unsavory characters. I was actually really impressed with the ride. The price beat anything I would have paid in the UK and the seats were practically luxury compared to anything you'd get in a British train. They were also roomier than anything you get in business class on a plane as well, minus the in flight entertainment. There was a lot of nice views and they have a special viewing car. The food on the other hand was mediocre and over priced so I just ate cereal the whole time.