The Atlanta Journal reported today that GrandLuxe Rail Journeys, (formerly American Orient Express), has ceased operations. An Amtrak spokesman stated that several million dollars in annual revenue for Amtrak will be lost. In a memo provided by GrandLuxe, reason for the closure was not stated, and it wasn't clear whether people would get their money back.

that is sad. my wife and i still consider our "national parks of the west" tour to be the trip of a lifetime!

That's unfortunate but the top end rail journeys only appealed to a small affluent segment of the population. It was about $10K or $15K per person if I recall, and you can take alot of first class train trips for that. Perhaps Grandlux rail journeys was better but not affordable for most.

it was worth the bucks.

Only if you can afford it. Now I have to come out of retirement to heat the house this winter.

well, it was the first real vacation without kids that we had taken in 28 years.

i am sorry to see them go under. it was expensive, but it had incredible value.

Amtrak should buy the equipment and initiate a "21st Century Limited" to run Grand Central to rotating West Coast destinations. They should contract food service to CIA or NECI, and use it as a test-bed for future long-haul routes.

Jon

quote:

Originally posted by KOOLjock1:
Amtrak should buy the equipment and initiate a "21st Century Limited" to run Grand Central to rotating West Coast destinations. They should contract food service to CIA or NECI, and use it as a test-bed for future long-haul routes.

Jon

Americans will be lucky if we have any rail passenger service in a few years.

Jon:

Your idea has much merit!

Looks like the equipment will be auctioned off this fall. Any takers?

http://www.luxuryrailcars.com/therailcars.html

--Reed

just sad.