The EuroStars are pleasant; and this is one time, if I wanted a nifty train trip, where I'd plump for 1st class, since the difference with 2d is very noticeable: wide plush seats, like La-Z-Boys.

Except 10% of the time, when they're not. They're totally enclosed, therefore air-conditioned. When the air-conditioning gives out, you can't open any windows. I usually take EuroStars only when I couldn't make a schedule otherwise; I've sweltered on them twice. (Nominally, you get a percentage back if this happens, processed and mailed to you, but the layers of bureaucracy pretty much ensure that the quick visitor to Italy, without fixed address or bank, only in the country for a coupla weeks, will be shafted, so don't bother with the refund.)

Still, it's 4 hours of nothing -- any food by the way is not great, and very expensive -- to say nothing of getting to and from train stations and being constricted by schedules.
   Over dinner my partner maintained it was reasonable (while adding he'd never do it); he says many Americans are used to getting up at 4 to drive across the country when it's cooler and there's less traffic), and so what, the day will be kinda full, and boy are they going to be tired driving that last bit in the dark thru the Raccordo Annulare, but otherwise, why not? We've been fighting like cats and dogs for 3 days, but I just report what I hear. Actually the Dog and the cats get along fine, what an odd expression.