If you are of the right mind-set, and of the self-sufficient variety, then the benefits of driving far supersede most other methods of getting there'. Driving requires taking ample time to contend with traffic in metropolitan areas, planning the best or most scenic route and allowing for food, fuel and other necessary stops. But if you have the time and an adventurous attitude, driving is for you.

Air travel is far too hurried, requiring much pre-arrangement, hassles for Homeland Security impositions and inevitable waiting time-likely at both ends. Arranging for and fretting over tightly-scheduled flight changes and layovers leaves many in a foul mood to start either a new project or a vacation. You will also be forced to take potluck as to seatmates, refreshments and weather delays. Choosing a window seat gains you views of clouds and the occasional bird. Thrilling!

Bus travel includes all of the dubious benefits of air travel, only more so: the more common bus services tend to stand out only in their sameness.poor air quality, rough ride and a rest room that suffers from an overabundance of fragrance to cover up poor sanitation. It is usually my luck to schedule on the same bus with either a large extended family of non-English-speaking folk with unusual customs or a group of sports fans overcome with team spirit. Sightseeing via the window next to you never seems to be very satisfactory as mostly you will be viewing the side of some tractor-trailer as the bus careens wildly past in the left lane at well over the posted speed limit. Dizzying. And bus stations are a true study in humanity: most I have seen would have provided ample psych thesis material for any grad student brave enough to hang out there.

Train travel is somewhat better; in fact it can be downright enjoyable, if, however, you can actually find a train going where you need to go. Commuter trains on the East Coast cover the area very well and there are trains to nearly everywhere, at least with connecting bus service. But for the rest of the nation, there are few trains and one must route from Cleveland to Dallas by way of, say, Atlanta? At least the train stations where you will be waiting during layovers are usually safer than most bus stations. Even if they don't offer any more in the way of food or amenities, you probably won't find yourself the subject of a territorial dispute over choice bench space with a semi-permanent 'resident'. However, for a beautiful and comfortable

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