Traveling to Boston? The capital of Massachusetts counts more than 4.5M citizens if you also include the metropolitan area. It is a huge city that can confuse any traveler out there. It makes no difference if you travel for business or leisure purposes. Some people reach their families only to enjoy a vacation away from their everyday stress and hassle. Some others do it with business requirements. After all, Boston is a global city and rated among the 30 most financially powerful centers in the world. No matter why you get there, getting used to the transportation is a must. It makes no difference where you want to go or how flexible you should be – chances are you need to know how to get around Boston.
The bad news is that Boston is known in the USA for the traffic gridlocks. As if all these were not enough, you will be surprised to run into a series of temperamental drivers. Some of them look like they have forgotten what it takes to be nice and polite in traffic. To make things even worse, parking is a real challenge in Boston. The necessity of a car might be obvious, but you will be surprised to pay a fortune for the good parking spaces. At this point, it is easy to realize that you thoroughly have to analyze transportation in Boston if you truly want flexibility or efficiency. Otherwise, you risk getting stuck in a huge place where no one cares about you. Sooner or later, frustration inevitably kicks in. Then, what kind of options do you have?
Public Transportation – any Worth?
Public transportation can embrace several forms in Boston. The T is the subway. You have three lines – Silver, Blue, and Orange, as well as two trolley lines. Generally speaking, this type of transportation is quite efficient, yet the subway is limited on weekends. Make sure that you get a map, though. The worst part is that the T does not work on a fixed schedule, so you risk facing surprises. It can also take you to the airport, but it is imperative to become familiar with the stations and line colors once again. This is what most citizens identify lines by.
If you want to travel on the surface, city buses can go pretty much everywhere. However, figuring the bus system is even more challenging. Luckily, you got some schedules in every station. Buses actually run on schedule, yet the hectic traffic causes a series of delays, so you better arm yourself with patience. Not sure whether you have taken the right bus? Ask the driver. They are quite helpful. The Silver Line is one of the least common bus lines. It goes from downtown to South Boston and Roxbury. It also takes travelers to the Boston Logan Airport.
The commuter rail is another good choice for public transportation, but it is mostly indicated to those who live outside Boston.
Getting a Taxi – Is It Better?
Taxi services are available all around Boston. Many of them will be waiting for you at the Boston Logan Airport, not to mention popular spots in Boston and Cambridge. Finding a taxi should never be a problem if you need emergency transportation. However, never plan your trip in the smallest detail because the traffic might cause some problems too. Simultaneously, a taxi from Boston Logan Airport may not be the cheapest option, yet it is certainly more comfortable than getting a bus. Taxi services are split into two categories, though – the classic cabs and transportation services.
Hiring a Transportation Service – how about a Limo?
A limo to Logan Airport is probably the right choice to get around Boston and reach to and from the airport. If you travel to relax, there are no reasons to go cheap and overlook your comfort. Your family will love it. After all, no one likes to ride with a bus to the destination. Plus, the bus is less likely to leave you right in front of the hotel. Instead, you still have to walk a little. If you travel for business purposes, you better ride in style. Maintain the quality standards high and show up with a decent level of self-respect and confidence.
Another good news is that no one can “take” your limo. This is not the average taxi service. It does not work on the classic principle – first come, first served. The driver will wait for you and even hold a sign with your name. Drivers tend to help with luggage as well but do not forget the etiquette for such gestures. The average tip for limo drivers is about 10%.