Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
On Amtrak trains without racks, bikes must be put in a box ($15 at most staffed termin-
als) and checked as luggage (fee $10). Not all stations or trains offer checked-baggage
service.
Before flying, you'll need to disassemble your bike and box it as checked baggage.
Contact airlines directly for details, including surcharges ($75 to $150 or more).
Boat
Boats won't get you around coastal California, although there are a few offshore routes,
notably to Catalina Island from LA and Orange County and to Channel Islands National
Park from Ventura or Oxnard, north of LA. On San Francisco Bay, regular ferry routes oper-
ate between San Francisco and Sausalito, Larkspur, Tiburon, Angel Island, Oakland,
Alameda and Vallejo.
Bus
Greyhound
buses are an economical way to travel between major cities and to points along
the coast, but won't get you off the beaten path or to national parks or small towns. Fre-
quency of service varies from 'rarely' to 'constantly,' but the main routes have service sev-
eral times daily.
Greyhound buses are usually clean, comfortable and reliable. The best seats are typic-
ally near the front away from the bathroom. Limited amenities include freezing aircon (bring
a sweater) and slightly reclining seats; select buses have electrical outlets and wi-fi.
Smoking onboard is prohibited. Long-distance buses stop for meal breaks and driver
changes.
Bus stations are typically dreary, often in dodgy areas; if you arrive at night, take a taxi in-
to town or to your lodgings. In small towns where there is no bus station, know exactly
where and when the bus arrives, be obvious as you flag it down and pay the driver with ex-
act change.
Costs
You may save money by purchasing tickets at least seven days in advance and by traveling
between Monday and Thursday.
Discounts (on unrestricted fares only) are offered to seniors over 62 (5% off), students
with a Student Advantage Card (20%) and children aged two to 11 (25%). Tots under two
years old ride for free.
