This week, Start the Year off on the Right Track!

Deal of the Week: See the U.S. by Train! (12/28/2001)

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Diana: I'm Diana Nyad and you're listening to The Savvy Traveler.
This week, we've been talking about how people use travel to start fresh and take on new challenges. Our Travel expert Rudy Maxa is here now with some ideas about how you can start the year fresh through travel -- a Deal of the Week to kick-start 2002. Hi, Rudy.

Rudy: Hi Diana.

Diana: So tell me about this week's Deal. What do you have this week to help travelers start the year off right?

Rudy: Well, I thought I'd find a Deal that will allow you to see the country. Maybe go somewhere very different from anyplace you've ever been before -- check out a desert or spa, perhaps, far away from home. But instead of flying, do something a little different...go by train.

Diana: Now that's my kind of resolution! I've always loved train travel.

Rudy: In January, Amtrak is offering two-for-one tickets on select trains around the country. That means you can board the "California Zephyr" that links Chicago with San Francisco and take a friend for no extra charge. Or how about the "Sunset Limited" from Orlando, through New Orleans all the way to Los Angeles?

Diana: I'm closing me eyes and imagining it now -- and I like what I see.

Rudy: "The Empire Builder" -- don't you love these names? -- begins in Chicago, crosses the Big Sky country of Montana, right through Glacier National Park, ending up under Mt. Hood in Portland, Ore. And as you cross North Dakota's plains, you traverse the spectacular Grassman Coulee Trestle.

Diana: I'm sold. Details?

Rudy: You can travel between January 9th and the last day of February. Buy your ticket beginning January 2nd by calling 800-USA-RAIL, or clicking on Amtrak.com. Promotion code is H207.

Diana: Are any of Amtrak's East Coast trains in on this offer?

Rudy: Yes, some of the Acela Regional trains along the Northeast Corridor are participating. And two children, up to age 15, can travel with each adult at half price. Oh, you must reserve 7 days before you want to travel.

Diana: Great deal, Rudy. Thanks! 2002 is gonna be a great year for travel -- I can feel it.

Rudy: I'll be back every week with a new Deal to make sure it is.

Diana: All right. Listen, you have a great New Year's, and don't forget to pack a lunch.

Rudy: My Superman lunch box is ready to go. See you next week.