Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
»
In an increasing number of states, it is illegal to talk (or text) on a handheld cell phone
while driving; use a hands-free device or pull over to take your call.
»
The blood-alcohol limit for drivers is 0.08%. Penalties are very severe for 'DUI' - Driving
Under the Influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
»
In some states it is illegal to carry 'open containers' of alcohol in a vehicle, even if they
are empty.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking in the USA is potentially dangerous and definitely not recommended. Indeed,
drivers have heard so many lurid reports they tend to be just as afraid of those with their
thumbs out. Hitchhiking on freeways is prohibited.
AMTRAK SAMPLE FARES
ONE-WAY FARE
($)
DURATION
(HR)
FREQUENCY (PER
DAY)
ROUTE
Chicago-New Or-
leans
127
20
1
New York-Chicago
101
19
1
Washington,
DC-Miami
179
23
2
Boston-New York
100
3½-4
11-19
Local Transportation
Except in large cities, public transportation is rarely the most convenient option for travel-
ers. However, it is usually cheap, safe and reliable. In addition, more than half the states
in the nation have adopted
511 as an all-purpose local-transportation help line.
Bicycle
Some cities are more friendly to bicycles than others, but most have at least a few dedic-
ated bike lanes and paths, and bikes usually can be carried on public transportation.
Many big cities - New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington, DC, among them - have
bike-share programs.
