As summer quickly approaches, many travelers are planning trips to beaches, parks, cities and other great destinations across the country. But the rising gas prices are making some travelers reconsider their plans. The American Bus Association is urging travelers not to miss out on the nation�s treasures this season, and instead, use motorcoach transportation when they can � an efficient, affordable, safe way to see the country.

�Today�s motorcoaches are vastly different from your grandfather�s bus. They are much more comfortable with more seating room than airplane seats, have elaborate video and audio systems, and have individual heating and cooling systems, among other amenities,� explained Peter J. Pantuso, president and CEO, American Bus Association.

And motorcoaches go everywhere. In fact, motorcoaches can be used in virtually any travel scenario � often more efficiently and more affordably than other modes. This summer, if you are:

� Visiting a city you�ve never been to before, consider a motorcoach tour instead of renting a car. A motorcoach tour lets travelers enjoy the destination without the pitfalls of traffic or getting lost in an unfamiliar city. � Expecting family or friends this summer, consider chartering a motorcoach to show them the town. Most motorcoaches are equipped to hold more than 40 people, but many companies have smaller coaches designed to accommodate smaller numbers. Impress your guests, forget about parking hassles and let a motorcoach take you door-to-door. � Getting married? Consider motorcoaches for guest transportation, wedding party transportation and bride and groom transportation. Omit worries about late arrivals, unfamiliar drivers or guests who have celebrated a bit too much by providing motorcoach transportation.

And if you�re not lucky enough to be traveling this summer and will be working, save yourself from filling your gas tank each week and instead, consider taking motorcoach commuter transportation to work. Often, motorcoach companies provide commuter transportation to urban centers for those who live in suburban or rural areas. This affordable and efficient way to get to work can save you money in commuting costs.

�There�s no reason for travelers to spend their hard-earned money on fuel for their cars this summer, when motorcoaches can provide travelers with an affordable option, allowing travelers to spend more on their vacations,� Pantuso said.

ABA also suggests that when looking for a motorcoach company, remember these few tips: � Know what your needs are. Let the company know if you need special services like wheelchair accessible coaches, bilingual drivers, or other needs. � Research the company. Ask for proof of insurance, what the average age, type and seating capacity of their fleet is and what their policies are on breakdowns, cancellations, etc. � Get several quotes from various carriers. And remember that the lowest price is not always the best option.

To locate motorcoach companies across the country, visit www.buses.org.

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The American Bus Association is the trade organization of the intercity bus industry with more than 1000 motorcoach owner and tour company members in the United States and Canada. Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services. Another 2,500 members are travel and tourism organizations and suppliers of bus products and services who work in partnership with the North American motorcoach industry.

Media Contact: Lori Levy +1 800-283-2877 llevy@buses.org