Would you rather drive yourself? Or would you rather join the hoi polloi on the bus or the train? Note that "public transportation" in this choice does not include bicycles or unicycles or skateboards or feet. The question is a narrow one: when you need to travel to a place that is far enough that the "green" modes of transportation are not viable, what is your preference?
In your own car, you're (largely) in control. You set climate and entertainment (not to mention the angle of your seat) in accord with your own comfort. You "own the road." You're also traveling on your own schedule. Of course, in your own car, you also have to be alert (please, please no texting!!). No ability do anything last minute "on the way." You have to have gas in the tank, and cash for tolls (or an E-Z Pass). And let's not forget directions (or GPS) to get you where you're going.
The bus/train option may have inconvenient departure and arrival times, but gives you the wonderful (sometimes) opportunity to sit back and enjoy the ride. Your level of responsibility for your transportation is minimal. And if you enjoy making new friends and influencing people, you may just have the chance to do so while sitting amongst your fellow travelers. Of course, once you consider inter-city buses and subways, the experience may take a turn for the worse. Unless you enjoy ever closer proximity with your fellow travelers (and on occasion, their stench).
I like driving. Not traffic. Really not traffic. But I like getting myself where I want to be. I like the independence. I don't even mind getting lost (though it is more than a little nerve-wracking when there are time constraints, and I need to draw upon the generous assistance of friends to navigate for me via the computer map and cell phone). But the open road with a view - I just can't complain.
How about you?
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