This is a Trip Report from the Premium Economy cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
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Cabin Crew
We had mixed advice about using the Amtrak Pacific Coast Starlight but all I can say is in sleeper class it is an experience not to be missed. Sure the Amtrak needs investment and it shows in the age of the rolling stock, but what a pleasure to meander down to LA, snoozing in the sleeper car than relaxing in the parlour car watching California go by. If you get the chance - do it!
Any road up - our return flight - on Ruby Tuesday - was a paroxysm of efficiency and ease. On time, good crew, reasonable food. Why even Manchester airport managed to get the bags off in priority order. Thirty minutes from gate to car park is okay I think!
The gate manager at LAS was a gem. A tall chap with a wonderful way with managing the 440 souls around him. One classic line sticks in the mind (addressing the many who feel that milling around the gate is the best way to get everybody on board). "Folks, you gotta make like the Red Sea and Part". Imagine the voice of a a drill sergeant from Heartbreak Ridge but with humour and finesse!
So thank you VS and thank you good folks of the USA - everybody we met were simply welcoming and helpful (except for that dodgy looking fellow in the iPhone queue - you know who I mean!)
Stephen.