5.0
Pros: I appreciated that it was a direct train to the station, the seats were comfortable recliners with tray options for work/food, and it felt spacious compared to a plane or bus. The Emeryville station was easy to navigate with helpful staff members, and they let us know on the train that the Paso Robles stop was very quick so that we could be ready. Cons: The seats weren't super clean. When I was transferring from bus to train in San Jose on the way back, things were a bit confusing (the staff member I eventually found was helpful in identifying where i should go, but on the platform, I had to ask other passengers, and I wasn't entirely sure I was boarding the right train). Tips: The train is totally worth it. Also, I highly recommend wearing a good mask--on parts of my journey back, there were people coughing, and some of them were unmasked.