A Budget Traveler's Dream: Chinatown Bus Lines
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A Budget Traveler's Dream: Chinatown Bus Lines
The Chinatown Bus Map
The "Chinatown bus" is known as the cheapest means of travel between major U.S. cities. In recent years, this has been the preferred mode of transportation for budget tourists in New York City, Washington, DC, and Boston, as well as on the West Coast. Many budget-conscious tourists, such as college students and backpackers, have long flocked to these bus operators because of the very low rates they provide. Even though these bus routes are well-known, finding information about Chinatown bus service may be challenging.
In other words, what is a "Chinatown Bus?" If you keep reading, you'll learn more about this fantastic low-cost travel choice.
History of the Chinatown Bus in New York City
Entrepreneurs in New York City's Chinatown initiated regular bus service from New York to Boston's Chinatown in the late noughties. The bus phenomenon was born out of that service. The service was designed for Asian immigrants who wanted to go shopping or see family in either city and required affordable transportation. It was a success. There was no advertising, no customer service, and no bus stops to speak of. Once at the bus stop, customers boarded the vehicle and paid the driver. If you don't mind sacrificing some of the luxuries, you may save a lot of money by using these services. Soon, the service was being used by a wide range of individuals. Students, those on a tight budget, and others who just preferred the convenience of the service made it a big hit.
As other bus operators saw the success of this strategy, they quickly replicated it and began operating in more cities. Philadelphia, Virginia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are now among the cities where this sort of bus service is available. When it comes to low-cost, low-frills transportation, the phrase "Chinatown bus" is used more loosely. Many, if not most, of the businesses in Chinatown don't serve the area's large immigrant community because of their lack of a physical presence there. "Curbside" operators are another name for these people.
I'm Baffled as to How They're so Inexpensive
Is it really just going to cost you $15 to go from New York to Boston? A round-trip ticket from Las Vegas to Los Angeles shouldn't cost more than $25. It's impossible to comprehend. Because Chinatown bus businesses operate in a completely different manner than standard carriers, they are able to keep fares low. First and foremost, the service is really basic. There isn't much in the way of facilities or customer service. Most of these companies don't have their own facilities; instead, they pick up customers at bus stops. They prefer word of mouth over formal advertising. A tiny independent bus company, on the other hand, is unlikely to have slumbering CEOs since many of its employees are actively involved in the business. As a further precaution, some operators ensure that their buses are full. As a result, Chinatown bus companies tend to only run on the busiest routes. It's true that several bus companies only operate during peak hours.
How safe are They?
Concerns regarding safety standards arose early on in the lives of these businesses. A debate continues within the bus industry over these entrants' compliance with the same laws as established bus firms. A federal task force looking at safety problems (i.e., charter and tour buses) did not judge Chinatown bus businesses to perform better or worse than other kinds of bus companies. Inspection requirements and procedures are mandatory for all bus companies operating in the United States, regardless of whether they are privately or publicly owned. If we're being honest, the quality of the Chinatown bus companies likely varies. Those looking to earn a quick profit are as common as those looking to build a sustainable company over the long run.
What to Be Prepared For
- The driver may be the ticket collector, and there won't be much in the way of customer service.
- Buses that are both spacious and comfortable. In spite of the cheap prices, buses are often pleasant places to spend time. In comparison to Greyhound, many buses are really more luxurious.
- Difficulties with communication Drivers are obliged by law to be able to communicate with passengers in an emergency in English. In practice, it's rather uncommon for this to be only lightly followed. Your driver should at the very least have a foreign accent.
- There may be delays. These bus lines are often located on busy streets. Expect delays when traffic is heavy.
- The snooze button has been pushed. When a bus ride lasts more than four hours, there is normally a 10- or 15-minute potty break. Don't be late for the bus; the driver won't count heads before departing at the scheduled time.
- Buses are crowded. At the busiest times of day, tickets are hard to come by (weekends and evenings). If you want a seat, book in advance or arrive early.
- Packaging in the form of plastic. Every aisle seat on Chinatown buses has a plastic shopping bag attached to the arm, which is a strange little peculiarity of the service. Perhaps this is the most efficient method for keeping buses clean.
Where is the Chinatown Bus Located?
If you are looking for a certain bus firm, "Chinatown bus" isn't what you are looking for. Several unconnected bus companies fit within this group. A lack of advertising means it might be difficult to find out information regarding bus timetables and stop locations. Many of the carriers are becoming better at using the Internet, and a number of them have their own websites. You may usually do an internet search to find bus service to your location. The author's company, GotoBus.com, is a centralized booking service that contains timetables and sells tickets online for most Chinatown bus operators, as well as a number of other Chinatown bus directories.
For some, though, the Chinatown bus may be a better option. It's best to remain with established carriers if you want a well-run system and excellent customer service à la American. With that said, if you know what to anticipate and are well-prepared, you'll have a great day. because you'll save money, too!