On July 23rd I called Great Rail Jouneys to book a trip from Seattle to Glacier National Park and return. The man said he would check on availability. As the trip was to commence on August 24th, less than 90 days from then, I had to pay the full amount then. On July 23rd I gave Great Rail Journeys a credit card for the full amount: $3990. I was told I would get confirmation via email within 7 days.I didn’t receive that confirmation, but I did get an email that said I shouldn’t book any surrounding travel before I receive the confirmation. So, I didn’t book anything.On July 30th, I called and asked why I hadn’t received a confirmation yet. I was told up until that day, they were waiting on Glacier National Park to confirm that rooms were available. My reservation now showed a room was available at Glacier Lodge and they had to change the date on a tour within the Park, which shouldn’t be a problem. I should receive that confirmation email soon. After being told the room was confirmed, I started making bookings for the supporting travel. I called again on August 1st, 4th and 7th asking for confirmation, but none came.On the August 7th call, I was informed that a room was not available and the trip could be cancelled. Ashanti from Great Rail Journeys told me I would receive a refund of the $3990 within 5-7 days. As the $3,990 hasn’t been refunded as of August 20th, I called again. The staff person had to check with operations to see where my refund was. They said they were working on it, and it would be processed in 3-5 days. When I asked why it would take another 3-5 days, the answer was “I don’t know.”As a result of this, I lost money on plans made after being told the reservation was secured: $157 on pre-flight hotel and parking and $200 on flights. (I was given a credit by the airline for future travel, after the $200 change fee.)This booking with Great Rails was a total scam. They sold me something they couldn’t deliver and still haven’t refunded the cost of the trip. Great Rail will certainly not be given a positive review by me.

We enjoy traveling. We've traveled by train several times in the past, via Amtrak. It's true what they say about train travel in the U.S. The railbeds are not great, but for the most part passable. But traveling on an old, archaic, Pullman train is like putting lip stick on a pig. They gave these old trains a new paint job...but the 'guts' are the same old nuts and bolts. It is close to impossible to walk the corridors or climb the eight or ten steps up to the dining room. Unless you're an athlete in your 20s...do not travel in a Pullman Train. The ride is so horrible you can't even climb the ladder to the upper bunk bed. Sleeping is impossible. However, the food is excellent. We traveled from Chicago to New Orleans. If they gave me a free ticket, I'd throw it away.

for one of our 80th birthdays, a journey was arranged involving me, my brother and my son and it exceeded expectations in every way... accommodating check-in, crew which will do almost anything and the most extraordinary meals and drinks we ever have enjoyed at any price... all aboard for this, although the passenger load for our train suggested this, too, might join the disappearing railroad blues... a word, too, for the folk-singers assigned to the lounge car, so fetching that one of us, at least, dared not even strike up conversation with them... what a trip!

Our relationship with Pullman Rail Journeys began last February when we were booked in a Master Bedroom from Chicago to New Orleans, but as it was one of the coldest days of the season, the water in the car was frozen. However, we had space reserved on Amtrak to Memphis on the overnight portion just in case, and the Pullman folks allowed us back on their cars for the remainder of the journey while the pipes were thawing. We were the only couple in the Adirondack Club car, and were waited on hand and foot, making it a most memorable experience. Then, a few days later, we were told we could select another date in the future for a make-up trip, which we took on October 22. Everything was wonderful and as advertised. The food was excellent, and our waiter (Daniel) was the best waiter ever! The on-board entertainers were pretty good as well, and sang and played guitar for an hour or more both after dinner and after breakfast. As a bonus, the owner of Iowa Pacific and Pullman Rail Journeys, Ed Ellis, was on the train from Chicago to Memphis, and I was able to chat with him for a few moments about his ventures, wishing him continued success. The scenery is not great in Mississippi (not the railroad's fault), but interesting nonetheless. The ride may not be quite as smooth as in the heavier Amtrak cars, but the space and the full-size bed in the Master Bedroom is a real treat for anyone used to Amtrak bedrooms. The private shower and bathroom were the best we've experienced in many years of rail travel. And the timing was just right for a waxing moon to be shining in our picture window, making for a romantic evening. It all added up for a wonderful journey that I would recommend to anyone with the means to afford it!

I've done a number of long distance train trips in various parts of the world and really enjoy the experiences. My wife found this trip and booked the northbound journey. We booked the Master Suite (go big or go home!). Information during the lead up to the trip was very good although they could provide even more info.Check in at Union Terminal, New Orleans, was a bit confused until a Pullman Porter in full white uniform turned up, when everything was organized. We were escorted to the train and to our compartment, and then shown the rest of the Pullman cars. Only two on our trip as there were only 18 passengers - a sleeping car, and the kitchen/diner/Club Car/Observation Lounge which also contained our Master Suite.Pre lunch drinks were served prior to departure, and lunch served promptly after leaving New Orleans.The service and food on board are both very good. The dining car steward, a Jack, was exceptional.Two things to be aware of, particularly if you have done other long distance trains. First, this isn't the Orient Express or the Blue Train! It's a different experience. This is US rail of the '50s, not 1930's Agatha Christie! None the worse for that though. It's elegant and stylish.Second point is that New Orleans to Chicago line is no high speed billiard table. It's a working freight line and the track can be quite bumpy at times. Remember also that these are 60 year old restored Pullman cars so be prepared for a lively ride.After a relaxing afternoon, dinner was served as night fell and again a great service and excellent meal with a good wine and drinks selection.During dinner the sleeping berths (full double bed in the master suite) were prepared. Together with the double bed, the master suite has a private shower and toilet. Well appointed and clean and spotless.Breakfast was served (again a great meal with good service) approaching Chicago, which we reached nearly an hour early.It's a really good experience, to be recommended.