Generally speaking, getting around America is very easy and shouldn’t be a problem for any visitor. In a country where traveling by road is cheaper than journeying by train, often car rental is an attractive option. On the other hand, for journeys between cities that are further than a few hours drive, flying quickly becomes a viable option. A still cheaper option is the bus and is still used by many Americans to travel huge distances but how do you know if this is the best method.
Getting around America by bus.
and many consider line run bus service to offer the most basic level of service. In truth there is a wide range of service offered, from luxury to budget, depending on the bus carrier. Of course everyone has heard of Greyhound buses as they are a national service (the only one) and they pretty much dominate the US market. Companies like Trailways and Coach USA are conglomeration of several smaller independent bus operators who share the same marketing functions as well as work under the same brand. Additionally the country also has several other reputed and popular regional operators who may seek the assistance of Greyhound on certain routes.
A newer development in the bus industry is the “Chinatown bus” which is a term used to describe low priced bus companies that operate pared down service on selected routes and charge much less than traditional bus companies. Originally these carriers tended to operate in, and cater to, the Chinese immigrant community but now the phenomenon appeals to a much wider group of customers. Another new development in the bus industry is the introduction of luxury coaches which is a direct competitor to flights. If you are someone who is no further than about 6 hours from your destination, this option may appeal as this type of bus service offer and excellent 1st class service so you will not feel as if you are traveling ‘budget class’.
So, how should you decide when the bus is your best option? Here are a few questions that might help you make your decision: If, when you travel, you do so on a budget then using a bus will beat all other forms of transportation. S.
When you get to where you are going, will you really need to hire a car? Certain US cities are really car-unfriendly (New York for one) and usually it is easier to travel around without burdening yourself with one.
How far are you planning to travel? If it takes less than 5 to 6 hours, you might as well take the bus as it reaches your destination faster than a plan, considering the time you spend waiting at the airport. Additionally a bus would reach you right up to the downtown area which makes it so much easier to find your way about in the city.
If you are traveling to a more remote are of America then you are less likely to have an airport close by which means a bus may be the best method to get you where you want to go. How much time do you have? If your trip is not rushed, you might enjoy the more leisurely pace of bus travel. If you are rushed then taking the bus may not be a good idea as the journey could include traffic jams and the bus in any case travels less fast than other methods of travel. Overall, the bus is a great option for visitors to the US who are looking for transportation between major US cities and more remote destinations alike. The recent rises in fuel costs have done nothing but help the bus companies and that is likely to continue as more an more people take to the bus as their preferred form of travel when going longer distances.