Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
»
The
Better World Club
( 866-238-1137;
www.betterworldclub.com
) provides emer-
gency roadside assistance for cyclists. Membership costs $40 per year, plus a $12 enroll-
ment fee, and entitles you to two free pick-ups.
»
The
League of American Bicyclists
(
www.bikeleague.org
)
offers general tips, plus lists
of local bike clubs and repair shops.
Transportation
If you're bringing your own wheels, call around to check oversize luggage prices and re-
strictions. Bikes are considered checked luggage on airplanes, but often must be boxed
and fees can be high (over $200). Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses will transport bikes
within the USA, typically for much less.
Rental
Outfitters renting bicycles exist in most tourist towns. Rentals typically cost between $20
and $30 per day, including a helmet and lock. Most companies require a credit-card se-
curity deposit of $200 or so.
Purchase
Buying a bike is easy, as is reselling it before you leave. Specialist bike shops have the
best selection and advice for new bikes, but general sporting-goods stores and big-box
retailers may have lower prices. Better yet, buy a used bike. To sniff out the best bargains,
scour flea markets, garage sales and thrift shops, or browse the free classified ads at
Craigslist
(
www.craigslist.org
).
Boat
Several ferry services provide efficient, scenic links in the East. Most transport cars too,
but you must make reservations well in advance. Popular services across the region:
Northeast
Bay State Cruise Company
( 877-783-3779;
www.boston-ptown.com
)
Ferries
between Boston and Provincetown.
Block Island Ferry
( 401-783-7996;
www.blockislandferry.com
) Ferries to Block Island
from Narragansett and Newport, RI.
Lake Champlain Ferries
( 802-864-9804;
www.ferries.com
) Ferries between Burling-
ton, VT, and Port Kent, NY.
Staten Island Ferry
( 718-876-8441;
www.siferry.com
)
Commuter boats between
Staten Island and Manhattan, NY.