Why Brightline is the Way to Travel

There are so many amazing places to explore in South Florida – Miami is one of our favorites.  Driving to and from can get exhausting.  Traffic, not being a huge fan of driving (me!), and unforeseen accidents are just some of the culprits.

When I was invited to experience the Select car on the Brightline, I jumped at the opportunity.  R and I love to spend time in Miami.  Whether it is checking out a great place to eat or perusing the street art or museum, we look forward to our dates.

BRIGHTLINE STATION IN WEST PALM BEACH

We arrived about 20 minutes before our scheduled departure to Miami.  There was ample parking in the covered parking garage.

NOTE: If you travel the Brightline Select service, parking is complimentary.  Otherwise, it is only $6 for the day.

We worked our way up to the Select Lounge, passing through security and then super fast ticket redemption area.  I don’t believe I passed one Brightline employee that didn’t smile and say “Good Morning”.

Once inside the lounge, we were able to unwind a bit with some complimentary coffee.  They also offer tea, bottled water, wine, beer, and snacks.

ALL ABOARD – THE TRAVELING EXPERIENCE

The fact that we were going to go to Miami and didn’t have to drive was exciting, but to be traveling in luxury was even more exciting!

Once the train departed West Palm Beach, we were given wet towels to wipe our hands (nice touch!) and then offered complimentary beverages – coffee (hot or Starbucks Frappuccino), tea, water (still or sparkling), amongst a handful other options.  It was a bit early for wine or beer so I opted for a sparkling water and OJ.  Snacks were next – a croissant for me, KIND bar for the Mr.

NOTE: If you travel in the SMART class/car, food and beverages are available for purchase.  SmartPLUS offers everything that SMART does, with one complimentary beverage and snack.

With a push of a button, you can stretch out a bit more to enjoy complimentary magazines and newspapers available.  I had to get some work done, so I took advantage of the free WiFi and desk/table right in front of me.

Pop up electrical outlets are at each seat which is super important when you’re on the go and need to charge up your phone or laptop!

First stop was Fort Lauderdale – just minutes walking from the Museum of Discovery and Science and IMAX theater!

DESTINATION MIAMI

We dedicated the day to enjoying the Perez Art Museum and lunch at Pubbelly – both within walking distance from the Miami station.  There is actually so much to do within walking distance.

The American Airlines Arena is literally 5 minutes away – we are definitely taking the Brightline to the next AAA event we go to!  The fact that we would avoid the traffic and costly parking makes it a no-brainer!

THE RIDE HOME

After a fulfilling day of art and sushi, it was time to head home.

The hour ride was the perfect amount of time for me to get back to my clients’ emails and check some items off my to-do list!

NOTE: The bathrooms are SO cool and SO clean.  Everything is hands-free which I love!

I also then allowed myself a glass of wine and a cheese platter to relax and unwind.

BRIGHTLINE IS THE WAY TO TRAVEL

The ease of jumping on a train that delivers me, without stress, to Fort Lauderdale or Miami is phenomenal.  As we were traveling along, I thought of all the things we could do together, as a family or date night.

My boys love going to sporting events.  One of the downfalls of living far from the sports arenas is how far we have to drive to get there – the traffic, looking for parking, etc.

Date nights are not only planned in our local area.  We can hop on the Brightline and check out the amazing restaurants that Ft. Lauderdale and Miami have to offer without stressing about driving home late.

Local hot spots offer great discounts if you show your Brightline ticket.

The more tickets you purchase, the more you save!  Brightline also has a partnership with Lyft, so if your final destination is a bit further than walking distance you will soon have the option of purchasing Lyft credits in addition to your train pass!

Wait until the Orlando station is open…amusement parks here we come! Have you ever traveled on the Brightline?