And yet, the prevailing atmosphere among the passengers was one of optimism, thanks to the short-term solidarity that sometimes accompanies long-distance travel.
The plans for HS2 project a 133% increase in demand for long-distance rail travel between now and 2033 over twice as big a rise as most other analyses, even though there is considerable evidence that demand for transport no longer rises with economic growth.
One reason for the scarcity of long-distance drivers is that air travel became affordable and convenient for many urban residents before car ownership began to grow.
Whether you're flying to visit your family, catching a train to meet up with a long-distance love or celebrating New Year's Eve on a warm-weather cruise with friends, ever present travel disruptions over the holiday season may leave you needing a place to stay at the last-minute.