Megabus.com Opens Cheap Midwest Bus Routes

Megabus.com, a cheapo daily bus service connecting eight Midwestern cities around a Chicago hub, is bringing a popular Euro form of discount transport to the US with bus rides for as little as a buck starting April 10. Limited luggage and lack of stations are reminiscent of current coastal Chinatown Bus service; like Chinatown Bus curbside stops, Megabus signs on downtown streets near landmarks, such as the Sears tower, take the place of terminals.

Amtrak and Greyhound officials told NPR that they believe most customers will prefer to wait inside where it's warm -- maybe; myself, I'd put up with a little sidewalk winter wind for a safe $1 bus ride.

UK-based Megabus follows the model of budget European airlines (Brit budget airline Ryanair recently offered $0, plus tax, Euro airfares) -- little traditional service and lots of savings. That way of doing biz has been wildly successful with backpackers and student travelers abroad -- imagine it in the US: $300-$400 spring break airfares would become a thing of the past.

• Megabus.com (Megabus sells only online tickets)
• Megabus Routes and Stops
• Greyhound bus travel, student Greyhound discounts
• Guide to US airport bus service

_{Photo: Megabus.com}