There are many ways to get from Point A to Point B, and
each one offers a different amount of speed, safety, comfort, cost, and
environmental impact. How could you begin to compare all these
different variables? Well, you don't have to, because we've done it for you.
Fastest: Bus or
train (short trips), Plane (long
trips)
Flying doesn't save you any time
when the trip is short. First
off, you're supposed to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before your flight,
and it will probably take you at least 30 minutes each way to drive, taxi, or
bus to the airport. That's 2 to 2.5 hours right there, not counting flight
time.
Overnight trains/buses are often
more convenient than flying.
That's because the time you spend sleeping on the train isn't wasted time. A
plane might take 3 hours while a train takes 11, but if you spend 8 hours of
that sleeping in a nice bed on the train or a sleeper coach, then the train is
a better option. You won't have to hassle with airport security, you might not
have to check your baggage, your mobile phone will likely work throughout the
trip, and you won't have the cost of a hotel room.
While airfare is relatively cheap,
you have to buy well in advance to get the best fare. A couple of years ago when I repeatedly checked the price
for a particular flight, gradually increasing the lead time on each search, the
fare got progressively cheaper up to 30 days -- at which point I stopped
checking. Anyway, the point is, while airfare can be cheap, you have to buy
well in advance to get the best fare. The penalty for buying at the last minute
on a train or bus is generally much lighter by comparison.
While Rail is the cheapest mode of transportation. Its always difficult to get a confirm seat in any tier. Rail travel especially during season is very difficult if you do not purchase the ticket well in advance. You need to book at least 2 months prior to the journey. Compare to Flights and Buses, Rail travel is cheaper and convenient as it allows the freedom of movement.
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