kevin_standlee: (Beware of Trains)
[personal profile] kevin_standlee
This morning I found that I could sign in to the Best Western hotel website. The problem I was having yesterday appears to have been a transient problem with my VPN software. (I'm using my work computer because the personal machine is broken, and the Day Jobbe requires running that VPN for security.) I found a room in the SureStay Reno Airport for less than $120/night plus tax and I booked it.

I took my final COVID test today: all clear. Not that I've had any symptoms, but I saw no reason to take any of the tests I brought with me home.

Having put in extra hours this week, I clocked out after the "morning" meeting (1530 BST) and packed up the computers. I'd packed my luggage this morning. It's a good thing I have that extra checked bag, because not only is my main bag running 22.1 kg, but the smaller bag (my WFC 2021 duffle) is stuffed full as well. How I managed to pick up so much more stuff during this trip, I do not know.

Class 800 IET

We drove to Swansea and caught this GWR train (an Intercity Express Train/Class 800) to Cardiff.

Class 800 Standard Interior

It may not look it in this picture of the standard class coach in which we were riding, but the train was very full.

Class 800 at Cardiff

I had to fight my way out of the train, as people were pushing their way in while I was trying to get out with my heavy luggage. Why they thought they'd get there faster with passengers still coming out of the train, I don't know.

Cardiff Central

The trip should have taken about an hour, but due to what appears to have been an issue with level crossing signals, we were about 25 minutes late. I'd put in for the Delay Repay credit, but that's less than £3 and doesn't seem worth doing.

Having now ridden the IET, I see what people have been writing about how hard the seats are and how the seats don't line up with the windows that well. I know that Amtrak's trains are mostly worn out, but the seats are usually comfortable and you can look out the windows.

We're spending tonight at the Cardiff Hilton (a pretty nice room) and will have a look around Cardiff tomorrow before taking the train (probably the same kind of equipment as we rode today) down to London.
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