Train Truths

Apparently I like to use alternative transportation to get to concerts. Or maybe I just like concerts and alternative transportation.

I recently used alternative transportation to get to the Goo Goo Dolls concert in Charlotte.

The week before the concert, I planned out how I was going to get to Charlotte. I calculated that it would cost me a tank and a half of gas, or $60, for a round trip to Charlotte. That made by bank account cringe.

Then I thought, “What about the bus?” This way, I’d most likely save money on gas and wouldn’t put mileage on my car. A Greyhound trip from Raleigh to Charlotte and back turned out to cost $69. Ouch again.

Then came the train! Amtrak’s web site was easy to use. I looked up departure times and costs for a roundtrip. The times weren’t the most convenient for my schedule, as they only departed every five hours. With a car, I could leave whenever was convenient for me and wouldn’t have to rush to get to the train station.

However, it was worth it. The cost was only $50, round trip. I couldn’t get there with a car for that cheap. Plus, I wouldn’t put mileage on my car if I took the train.

It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life to take the train instead of drive. I was able to read the latest issue of Glamour Magazine, which I wouldn’t have been able to do if I had driven. I was able to take a nap in the plush seats, which obviously isn’t an option when you’re the driver. I was even able to eat a lunch that I had brought onto the train. I loved the extra free time I gained by not driving.

I don’t know why I’ve driven my whole life. Public transportation is so convenient when you want to fit in some extra study or leisure time.

[Lesson 5: Public transportation gives you extra free time to lounge, read, whatever.]

[Lesson 6: Even if public transportation isn’t cheaper than driving your personal car, you don’t put mileage on your car if you use public transit.]