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There will be times during the year-three-day weekends, semester breaks, and holidays-when everyone on campus may be gone. And if everybody is going, you might as well go to, but how will you reach your destination?

Unless you want to use public transportation, you may want to consider buying a car and reselling it before you return home. Whether you purchase a new or used car, it is important to remember that you must also purchase automobile insurance. In case of an accident, the insurance will protect you against most of the cost of injuries and the repair of your car or the other vehicle involved in the accident. It is also important to remember that insurance may be more expensive than the car itself depending on your age, how long you have had a driver's license, and other factors. Having your own car will allow you more freedom to visit the surrounding Charleston area, go on trips during vacation, go to the movies, or go to the local shopping mall.

In the United States, renting a car is easy and affordable. Rental car companies vary and their prices are competitive. You will need to check the local telephone directory for a list of companies in the Charleston area or go on line. To rent a car all you need is a credit card and a driver's license. Note: Some companies may impose an age limit and also require you to purchase insurance.

Hertz
Budget
Orbitz
Avis
Thrifty
Alamo

Another alternative is to have somebody give you a ride. Students with cars will often offer a ride if you are going to the same destination. All you have to do is share the expenses.

Traveling by bus is also another affordable option. In the United States, most towns are connected by bus even when they are not connected by train or air. Although you can go anywhere in the United States by bus, they make frequent stops, which may make the trip much longer. Bus terminals are not the safest place, so remember to be a smart traveler and keep your eyes wide open, especially in big cities. There are several different bus lines available.Greyhound is one of the larger bus lines and they have a local terminal at 3610 Dorchester Road in North Charleston. For information about Greyhound lines and prices, call 1-800-231-2222. In Charleston, call 744-4247.

Trains connect all the major cities. Although they are usually more expensive than an airline, the ride can be fun and the scenery is great. AMTRAK is America's passenger rail system. For station information call 744-8263. For reservations and schedule information call 1-800-872-7245.

Because distances are so great in the United States, you may find that the fastest way to travel is to fly. Airlines are very competitive, so you need to do some cost comparison to find the best possible flight for your money. It is important to remember that scheduling your flight at least 21 days in advance will insure that you get the cheapest flight available and the flight schedule that is most convenient. The following is a list of travel agencies in the Charleston area and travel services that may offer some inexpensive flights.