31- Why American Trains Are Worth Your Time w/ Simply Railway

Thibault Constant, the creator behind the YouTube channel Simply Railway, talks about the reality of traveling by train across the U.S. In this episode of Travel Devil, host Clara Francken sits down with Thibault to talk about Amtrak, the national railway company in the United States.

Thibault has crisscrossed North America by rail, documenting night trains, scenic sleepers, and cross-country chaos. Together, we explore how Amtrak compares to European rail systems, what it’s like to sleep in a coach seat for two nights straight, and why the slow train might just be the most soul-nourishing form of travel out there.

In this episode:

• The surprising comfort of Amtrak long-distance trains
• Learn about the history of the American train system
• Who are the Amtrak passengers
• Most scenic train routes in the U.S.
• Which night trains to try in The States
• Tips for booking your first Amtrak trip and avoiding the pitfalls

If you're curious about sustainable travel in North America, the future of slow mobility, or just want to hear train stories from a true rail enthusiast, this episode is for you.

Connect with the man behind Simply Railway:

• Watch his videos on YouTube
• Connect on Instagram

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Chapters

• 1:14 Meet Thibault Constant from Simply Railway
• 10:17 History of Amtrak and U.S. Rail Decline
• 15:25 Who are the Amtrak passengers
• 18:17 Experience comparing the U.S. and EU trains
• 29:01 How to avoid conflict & how to tip your train attendant
• 44:11 This or That: Night Train Edition
• 57:24 What’s Next for Simply Railway