Re: Dreaming :

Randall Hess Wrote:
=======================================================
> I'm not a marketing expert; as far as I know, none
> of us here is. It doesn't take an expert to
> recognize a problem (just as it doesn't take a
> weatherman to tell which direction the wind is
> coming from). I, and others, have "spit-wadded"
> ideas on how to update the service, which is
> largely unchanged since Scenic established the
> schedule 40 years ago. Mr. Bush and other experts
> have rejected many of them. I remain hopeful that
> improvements will be made, before the states get
> tired of supporting this treasure.

The only thing I'm really thinking they should implement is fixing the website!!! If they've done GOOD research and not "tooting our own horn, we don't want to change" tye research, then they can keep it the way it is. But, like Russo Loco has said, a shorter train was PROFITABLE.

The Cumbres Express might be a shorter train but it is horribly advertised. It doesn't use "drooling words" to promote. Right now it just looks like a lot shorter train for not much less money.

SOmething like "Enjoy the ride on the Cumbres Express as you work your way up the hill while taking in the scenery including traveling across the 100' high Lobato Trestle. Be sure to look out your window as you progress up Windy Point, you'll be able to see the mountains for miles. After reaching your stop, a air conditioned bus will take you back to your car"
--IMHO, this trip should be $30. Figuring the entire trip is $12.75 per hour of enjoyment (I subtracted $12 for food), then the two hours of this trip should equal $25.50. But, since Cumbres is the most expensive part of the line, add another $5. If they must, $40-$45