Post
by DaveKCMO » Mon Jul 23, 2007 8:56 pm
my megabus experience
fare: originally $8 one-way, changed the date at the last minute resulting in an $8 increase. we arrived in STL on amtrak (only 45 minutes late!), so only a one-way fare this time.
boarding: moved to the west side of union station. there is a sign now (similar to a regular bus stop). deboarding in KC was in one of the stalls at the 10th/main transit center (where there is also a megabus stop sign). the monday bus was about 1/3 full.
timeliness: departed 5 minutes late, arrived in KC on time (4h15m).
the ride: the driver made quick work of I-70 and appeared to be moving faster than the flow of traffic. reclining seats are very comfortable with overhead bins for smallish bags (most luggage goes underneath, including bikes!). 15-minute pit stop in boonville (although wouldn't columbia seem more logical?). while the ride was smooth for a bus, it still doesn't beat the comfort of the train. the driver played some smooth jazz satellite radio at a low volume.
overall, i can't wait until this service is expanded to other cities. i wouldn't take megabus all the way to chicago, but it's a good alternative to amtrak and greyhound.
