I took a 52-hour Amtrak train ride from Chicago to California by myself. Here are 11 things that surprised me most.

I didn't know what to expect from such a long Amtrak ride, but it wasn't bad.

Sojourner White

Even as an avid air traveler, I didn't know what to expect when I embarked on this 52-hour cross-country train ride from Chicago to Emeryville, California.I'd booked a roomette for the trip aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr, which is said to take one of the most scenic routes in the US.My trip was filled with surprises — some more pleasant than others.My roomette felt smaller than I anticipated

The space felt quite cramped.

Sojourner White