COMMON QUESTIONS
Review ground transportation resources in the
U.S.A.
This section answers questions related to ground
transportation for international patients visiting the United States of
America for health care and medical treatment.
U.S. Ground Transportation
How do I obtain transportation from the airport to
my hotel or other destination?
If you have an international driver's license, prior to your trip you
or your travel agent may wish to reserve a rental vehicle. Some hotels
provide transportation for their guests, so ask when you make your hotel
reservations. The U.S. offers many forms of transportation, but the best
way to leave the airport may be an airlines transportation vehicle, taxi
or cab, or a limousine. The phone directory in the airport's public phone
area should provide you with the numbers you need under "Transportation".
What are the most common forms of transportation in
the U.S.?
Privately Owned Vehicles: Most Americans own cars, trucks, vans,
mini-vans, etc., which are the most common forms of transportation.
Public Transportation/Rail: Subways, above-ground railways, and
bus systems vary from city to city, and in many smaller towns, public
transportation is virtually non-existent. New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington,
and San Francisco have the largest metropolitan rail systems in the U.S.
and provide convenient and inexpensive transportation.
NOTE: To avoid unwanted attention, be discreet when consulting
maps or sight-seeing materials. For your safety, when riding in a subway,
choose a car in which others are riding. Be careful not to fall asleep,
or you could end up far from your destination point. Finally, beware of
pickpockets and purse snatchers whether you are walking or riding. Contact
the city's Port Authority for detailed information about schedules and
rates. Visit City & State
Information to learn about public transportation in the city you are visiting.
Cabs/Taxis: Another form of transportation is a cab/taxi. Charges
are based on distance and time of travel, and rates vary from city to
city. Ask the driver before you get into the cab/taxi about the cost.
A 10-15% tip should be given to the driver after the ride is over.
Rental Vehicles: Rental
cars and vans or limousines are available at a cost per day and per
mile. Most rental companies require an international driver's license
that proves you are allowed to drive and that you are over the age of
25. A credit card will also be required by most car rental companies.
Renting a vehicle during your stay is a good option if the city you are
visiting doesn't have a good system of public transportation or if you
wish to sightsee or lodge at a distance from your healthcare facility.
NOTE:Never drive a car unless you understand all of the rules
and laws of American driving. Visit Car
Rental Companies for more information.
Privately owned airport transportation vehicles or hotel vans: This
service may be available for transportation from the airport to your hotel.
Ask the hotel you are staying in if it offers this service when you make
your reservations.
National train/bus lines: Amtrak
Railway and Greyhound
Bus Lines can take you longer distances-usually at a less expensive
fare than flying.
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