[Hidden-tech] Amtrak Wifif

[Edbride-PR]

As much as I like to be connected while en route, I'm not sure that Wi-Fi 
(free or not) would make much of a difference in my plans for a short-range 
trip. To me, Albany-to-NY or even Philadelphia qualifies as short-range. 
Washington, D.C., closer to 400 miles, that's a different matter. For a trip 
of that distance, time en-route is going to have a much bigger impact than 
Wi-Fi vs. disconnected. If I can't afford an entire business day en route, 
I'll fly, Wi-Fi or not.

Amtrak could probably offer Wi-Fi if it wanted, but I don't imagine they see 
it as a competitive advantage right now, and they're not in the habit of 
spending "needlessly" on customer conveniences. On the other hand, some 
expert in interstate commerce, rail subsidies, and other such matters may 
tell us that Amtrak is not permitted to offer Wi-Fi. Anybody on board with 
that (sorry)?

Ed

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Shel Horowitz" <shel at frugalfun.com>
To: "Dede Wilson" <dede at dedewilson.com>; 
<hidden-discuss at lists.hidden-tech.net>
Sent: Saturday, June 25, 2011 11:04 AM
Subject: Re: [Hidden-tech] Amtrak Wifif


>
> Several of the bigger stations, this trick works. I've done it in
> NYC. But I don't understand why if Peter Pan can offer wi-fi, and
> some of the NJ commuter trains, why can't Amtrak? It would be a major
> incentive for business travelers to switch off airplanes on trips
> under 500 miles or so, especially since they already have power
> outlets in every row.
>