Expert: Ernest Tufft - 6/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am planning to visit my brother and sister-in-law this August.  If they can't drive me during the day, what do you suggest in way of public transportation, like the bus, trolley, etc.?

ANSWER: The San Francisco Bay Area has good transit service in BART and various Ferries.  Within San Francisco itself, MUNI may be among the nation's finest public transit system, and it includes cable cars, underground and above ground rail systems, antique electric trolleys, electric and diesel-hybrid electric buses.

Los Angeles is much more problematic, but the relatively new Metro rail system there is really quite good as it reaches all areas that might interest a tourist, and there are connections with other passenger rail systems for cities outside Los Angeles County.

Both cities have good websites that can help you plan your trip.

Hope this helps.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks but they live in San Diego.  However, my sister lives in Los Angeles, so thanks for that information.  So, what do you suggest for San Diego?

Answer
San Diego also has a good light rail system that will even take you to all the way to the border at Tijuana, among other places.  You can find details of the San Diego light rail trolley system at their website.  Much depends upon where your friends live in San Diego, but even if they live far from any trolley station, I'm certain that a public transit bus will get you there.