Thread by @EmilyFarina5

@JayBeeGooner Arriving at Ottawa station on the O-Train. LRT with design flair.

First glimpse: @VIA_Rail Train 26 the new Venture train and Charger locomotive await on Track 4.

All aboard!

And we’re rolling. 100% load factor in business class and mostly young professional women. 😊 With 2 coaches of the 5-car train devoted to business class, @VIA_Rail is hopefully eyeing to grow the more profitable premium travel market.

Packaged snacks and wet naps served on departure. The first round of alcohol (real glassware) just 5 minutes into the trip. Guest are addressed by name — a nice personal touch.

@JayBeeGooner Business class choices include a cold sliced chicken breast salad or cheese platter, selection of wine and warm breads, and packaged snack and desert. The attentive crew offered a 2nd glass of wine to wind down the more than satisfactory mid-afternoon meal.

Biggest most accessible washrooms I’ve seen on any European or North American train. You could have a party in here!

Wrapping up the meal service with chocolate and your choice of more wine (!!) or a hot beverage.

@Siemens ride and comfort vs. the refurbished HEP and LRC’s: Akin to a premium German SUV at today’s 152 kmh max observed speed with firm ergonomically correct seats for work and relaxation, superb sound insulation with muted road noise. and tight suspension to reduce sway.

Minimalist Nordic-inspired luxury which will age well. Marred by the practical but inelegant open overhead racks which degrade the otherwise authentic business class experience.

@VIA_Rail appreciative of your request for detailed customer feedback on your impressive new @SiemensMobility trains and accent on customer care. 4/5 stars. ❤️

On-time arrival at bustling Central Station #Montreal all decked out for Christmas.

@_NickMorrison according to my VIA train crew: No bikes allowed on the new trains. VIA won’t announce a new bike policy until 2024 and it will likely entail a fare surcharge. 😞