I like using the train. Yes there are sometimes problems and it can be frustrating when you are unsure how they will be resolved (as often are the platform staff). It can of course means that Delay/Repay means you travel for free - but of course thats not a great consolation if you really want to get somewhere for a particular time. I have inn the past travelled for free and been put in a taxi to ensure I got home when the delay meant the last train was missed.
As to cost I do have the advantage of a Senior Railcard reducing fares by 30% and living near enough to a station to make it an option. Often it's a cost/benefit analysis - do I want to drive? Do I want a drink? Do I want to navigate a busy city? Do I want to find parking? and in my case, where can I find a suitable charger? If I can get where I am going with minimum changes by train then I will look to use it. Sometimes I intentionally use the train so that I will slow down and enjoy the experience - rather than rushing to be somewhere. I like that a train puts me in the middle of a city. When I try to compare costs with travelling by car I often found it similar if I'm on my own - but of course as soon as there are two or more of you then the cost of car travel comes down in proportion - trains become more expensive!
But, I do also want us to have a good rail network and that means that sometimes I'm prepared to use and pay to use it to ensure it survives and to encourage more investment - because a good rail and bus network has to be better than putting more and more pressure on roads.
As to cost I do have the advantage of a Senior Railcard reducing fares by 30% and living near enough to a station to make it an option. Often it's a cost/benefit analysis - do I want to drive? Do I want a drink? Do I want to navigate a busy city? Do I want to find parking? and in my case, where can I find a suitable charger? If I can get where I am going with minimum changes by train then I will look to use it. Sometimes I intentionally use the train so that I will slow down and enjoy the experience - rather than rushing to be somewhere. I like that a train puts me in the middle of a city. When I try to compare costs with travelling by car I often found it similar if I'm on my own - but of course as soon as there are two or more of you then the cost of car travel comes down in proportion - trains become more expensive!
But, I do also want us to have a good rail network and that means that sometimes I'm prepared to use and pay to use it to ensure it survives and to encourage more investment - because a good rail and bus network has to be better than putting more and more pressure on roads.