This popped into my inbox:
That service has been affected by a-service-disruption. You will now be traveling on alternate transportation over part or all of your trip. To speak to any Amtrak representative about alternate travel options call us at 8772319448 at your earliest convenience.
We apologize for any inconvenience and want to thank you for being a valued Amtrak customer.
Sincerely,
Amtrak
Service disruption. Call a number for alternative options. Great. And then I get a phone call, from that exact number, which proceeds to repeat the message I just got in my inbox. How’s that for automation?
Not helpful.
A tweet from @Amtrak_Cascades was a little more informative:
Amtrak Cascades service disrupted Seattle to Vancouver, BC by mudslide.Alternate transportation will be provided.
— Amtrak Cascades (@Amtrak_Cascades) November 20, 2012
Mudslides. OK. I don’t know that such an event wasn’t predictable but moving on.
I’m still left with calling the automated number to find out what “alternate transportation” means. The Amtrak website is not helpful, and even looking up my reservation says nothing about “alternate transportation” or “service disruption.” Airlines are far better at customer service during “service disruption” than Amtrak. I can see now why Amtrak gets such a bad rap. Pity.
So, the plot thickens for this new experience of not being home for Thanksgiving.