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. Although, for longer journeys flying often becomes the more attractive option. Many people overlook the humble bus but they shouldn’t as this can be an excellent way to travel and below are some reason why.
Taking the bus option in the US.
Not everyone agrees this is the best way to get around America though and many feel it is at the basic end of travel. The truth of the matter however is that there is plenty of bus services to choose from like luxury or budget category, depending on the carrier. The bus industry in the United States is dominated by Greyhound, which is the only bus company with service nationwide. 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. Moreover there are many well-founded bus service companies who work at the regional level but have to take the help of Greyhound on some routes.
If you are traveling on a budget you may also have the option to use what is referred to as a ‘Chinatown Bus’ which operate at the budget end of the spectrum running routes that can be sustained through the large volume of travelers they have. Initially these companies used to cater to the commuting needs of Chinese immigrants but gradually its services are being taken to a wider range of customers as well. Competing head on with the airlines industry is the introduction of luxury bus services, yet another new introduction to the industry. 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: What kind of budget do you have? If it is tight, bus journey could be your best choice. and this is particularly true on heavily traveled routes in the Northeast where there is a lot of competition.
Would you be in need of a car, when you reach the destination? There is no need to lumber yourself with a car if it is not necessary and many US cities have, in recent years, become less accommodating to car users which can be a real problem.
How far are you going? If you are traveling less than a five or six hours it is probably faster to take the bus than to fly when you factor in waiting time at the airport. Moreover, the bus will likely drop you off in the downtown area so you do not have to find your way into the city once you arrive.
What is your destination? Remember most of the people in the US find traveling by bus more convenient even if it is to the remote area of the country as this is the only viable means of pub transport. Some people prefer the more sedate form of travel afforded by a bus especially when they are in no hurry. If you are under time pressure, the bus is probably not the best choice as it is subject to traffic delays and usually takes a little longer than other modes of transportation. Thus in totality, taking a bus to travel within US, whether it is from one major city to another or even to remote areas, is the right choice for visitors. As the gas prices soar and train services get curtailed, this could be one of the most viable options for traveling.
