Seat Belts Not Required

February, 2007

Did you know that the creation of 'modern' railways began with the opening of the Stockton & Darlington line in 1825, and the Liverpool & Manchester in 1829?

Though England was its birthplace, railroads quickly took hold in North America. The vastness of the United States and Canada provided an ideal environment for this new transportation mode. By 1900 there were 193,346 miles of track. Did you also know today's standard rail track gauge of 4 feet 8 1/2 inches is derived from the width of early horse-worked railways, approximate to the space needed for two horses working side by side.

Now that you are a 'rail aficionado' take your next trip VIA TRAIN. And, seat belts are not required. I recently took a friend of mine on his first train outing - Amtrak's Train #14, 'The Coast Starlight,' from Los Angeles to Seattle. As we were seated in the 1414 car by an attractive train attendant I observed him looking for what appeared to be something he lost. When I asked him what he was looking for, he replied 'where's the seat belt?' I explained to him that there are NO seat belts on trains. So, if you have never experienced rail travel this is one of the many advantages. And, high on the list of epic rail journeys is 'The Coast Starlight.' I heartily recommend. It's a fantastic experience. One more suggestion.......if you are a coach passenger be sure and be seated on the left side northbound. Why? The scenery along the Pacific Coast is totally breathtaking and awesome. Trust me. Take a rail trip. You need it NOW.

-Doug