COMMENTS * USA - 7 Reasons To Take The Bus

USA -Wisebread, by David DeFranza -March 16, 2008: -- In the deeply entrenched hierarchy of transportation options, flying has always been comfortable in its position above all others. Recently, air travel's superior convenience has been eroded by crowded routes, increasing delays, and long security lines. At the same time, increases in fuel prices have made budget fares difficult to find. By now, the glamor of flight has faded in the eyes of most travelers... Meanwhile, a once lowly mode of transportation, the bus, has been working hard to craft its niche in the budget market. More comfortable buses and cheaper fares are covering more routes than ever before...

Here are seven reasons to consider taking the bus:
1. Cost
2. Coverage
3. Time
4. Reliability
When you book a bus ticket you can be almost guaranteed that the bus will depart as scheduled.
5. Its More Green
When you look at the numbers, a full bus is much more gentle on the environment than a flight of the same distance. That said, the debate is ongoing.
6. Free Wi-Fi
A notable example is the BoltBus, which in addition to its $1 fares, offers free Wi-Fi access on all of its routes.
7. Flexibility
Many bus lines offer exceptional flexibility with their tickets. Greyhound, for one, allows you to use a ticket for the reserved route on any day or time for which there is availability, up to a year after the original departure date. Other companies, notably Megabus, allow you to change your reservation with 24 hours advance notice and only a $1 service charge. I have also found drivers to be very generous with the baggage allowances as long as the bus is not too full, something you will never experience flying...
The humble bus is coming back as a cheap and friendly alternative to flying. With the environmental controversy, security and scheduling hassles, and increasing prices andsafety concerns, why not give this old, budget travel standby, another chance?... (Photo: janetmck )