I booked a premium ticket on Florida's high-speed Brightline train for just $44. The first-class experience was fabulous.

• Brightline , a high-speed train operating in Florida, offers an alternative to road and air travel.
• The rail line has trips between Orlando and Miami, with stops in between.
• A premium ticket offers first-class amenities like snacks, drinks, and access to a special lounge.

Floridians and those visiting the state now have a competitive alternative to road and air travel.

Brightline, a high-speed train that runs between Orlando and Miami — with four stops in between and more in the works — offers a clean, cool, and comfortable way to travel within the Sunshine State.

The rail line began operating in 2018 with stops in South Florida, then expanded to Orlando in late 2023.

The Orlando to Miami journey from end to end takes about three hours and thirty minutes. According to Google Maps, driving the same route would take about four hours (or more if there's traffic).

On a sunny Saturday in March, I took a Brightline train from Fort Lauderdale to West Palm Beach. When I bought tickets, prices ranged from $10 to $44 for the 36-minute ride.

I decided to splurge on a premium ticket for $44 — $20 more than a regular ticket — and I'm glad I did.

The included snacks and drinks, extra space, and access to a special lounge before boarding made the trip feel like a first-class experience.

Here's what my Brightline trip was like from end to end.

A spacious lobby greets passengers at the Fort Lauderdale Brightline station.

Though this station has been open for a few years, the building looked very clean and seemed new. Large windows allowed the sunlight to flood the spacious lobby.

A digital board clearly displayed the arrival and departure times.

Trips can be booked via Brightline's app or website, or in person at an automated ticket kiosk.

It was also easy to view departure and arrival times for Brightline trains.

The artwork in the lobby was vibrant and fun.

Although the lobby had a rather minimalist design, I appreciated the vibrant maps lining the walls.

Going through security was a breeze.

Going through security was a quick and seamless experience.

During my visit, passengers had to pass through a metal detector and bags were scanned. Unlike the TSA line at the airport, I didn't have to remove my shoes.

Once I got past security, I found a bar area where eI could wait for my train.

The Mary Mary Bar at the Fort Lauderdale Brightline station has food and drinks, including signature cocktails, available for purchase.

The nearby shop selling drinks and snacks was also well stocked.

As a premium ticket holder, I was able to breeze by these options on my way to an exclusive lounge that my ticket granted me access to.

The premium lounge was airy and bright.

Although all tickets include access to complimentary WiFi, power outlets, and one free carry-on bag, those who upgrade to a premium ticket also enjoy a few extra amenities, including entry to the station's premium lounge before departure.

Hot and cold food options were available — and included in the cost of my ticket.

The breakfast buffet available during my visit exceeded my expectations. There were hot eggs, sausage, fruit salad, and potatoes up for grabs.

The display was pretty, too, and was even decorated with flowers.

I also found a high-tech coffee machine that served lattes and teas.

Coffee, tea, and other warm drinks could be had with the push of a button — all complimentary in the premium lounge.

Wine and beer were also on tap.

A variety of wines and beers were available via self-serve taps in the premium lounge.

Once I had some food, I grabbed a seat near one of the windows.

The premium lounge had many seating options, and wasn't too crowded during my visit. Overall, this first-class experience exceeded my expectations before we even boarded.

There was a separate set of stairs near the premium lounge for riders to board the train.

Eventually, it was time for me to board my train, which was set to depart at 11:30 a.m.

Some passengers were already settled when I boarded the train.

There were two seats on one side of the car and one seat on the other.

My train car was quite full but it didn't feel cramped since there was so much space to spread out.

The seats were comfortable and roomy.

Those with premium tickets have access to 21-inch leather seats. For comparison, the Smart Fare ( Brightline's business-class option ) has 19-inch seats.

All seats have access to complimentary WiFi and multiple power and USB Type-A or USB Type-C outlets.

My seat provided me with plenty of room to relax.

After boarding the train, I settled into my seat in the very first car.

I was quickly greeted by the Brightline employee who'd be taking care of the car.

The tray tables at each seat were large, which was helpful when the complimentary snacks arrived.

Free snacks and drinks were included with premium tickets .

Snacks included popcorn, a fruit bar, chocolate, and a cheese stick. A range of beverages were also available for me to order, and I chose a sparkling wine.

Those who don't book premium seats can purchase concessions on board.

The ride on Florida's Brightline was relaxing.

I enjoy train travel because I feel like it's relaxing and there's so much to see outside of the windows and this trip did not dissappoint.

The bathrooms on the train were spacious and clean, too.

The onboard bathroom near me was super spacious and seemed clean.

There was plenty of bag storage onboard.

I was impressed by how much space there was for passengers' luggage on the train. There were also bike racks available for those who want to travel with a set of wheels.

The ride was comfortable and the time passed quickly.

My train took just 36 minutes to cover the about 46-mile journey from Fort Lauderdale to West Palm Beach — which, according to Google Maps, can take from 45 minutes to over an hour via car, depending on traffic.

I was a little bummed to arrive at the West Palm Beach station because I'd been enjoying the ride so much.

When it was time to disembark, I quickly gathered my belongings and stepped off the train.

I only wish the journey wasn't so quick. I really enjoyed looking out the window and the ride felt like such a relaxing way to travel.

The West Palm Beach station was also clean and bright.

The West Palm Beach station looked similar in style to the Fort Lauderdale one where my journey started. There were signs clearly marking where travelers might need to go next.

I had a great ride, and I'd travel with Brightline again.

Although ticket prices vary depending on the length of the ride, the date, and the time of day riders choose, I think my ride was a great value at $44.

Paying $20 extra for the premium ticket was absolutely worth it based on the extra amenities I enjoyed.

Lastly, I loved how quickly I got to my destination — driving would've likely taken me longer and I wouldn't have been able to relax because I'd be focusing on the road.

Read the original article on Business Insider