Relying on Public Transportation in LA

[Holyghost182]

Haha, I'm going to run with the excuse that I'm a poor college student, hopefully that'll explain my situationt to ppl a bit. anyone have any idea if one were to rent a cheap car for the summer how much that would run>

[ferretkona]

You might find a place that rents cars cheap, there used to be a place called Ugly Duckling that rented out less than fresh cars on the cheap.

The better choice I think is to buy a cheap car and sell it when you leave, you might even make a few bucks instead. That is what my friend does when he travels in Ireland.

[Holyghost182]

How flexible a process is it? Ugly Duckling...it definitely sounds like somewhere that would sell cheap cars.

Its definitely not going to be easy for someone like me (who likes to go out) to not be mobile. But hopefully the combination of rail, bus and the possibility of a car will make this easier.

[mover007]

Since you will only be here for the summer, Public Transportation will be fine for the areas i mentioned: I used it from westwood to mid-wilshire to downtown and hollywood for about 2 years. But neighbourhoods are spread out--visiting new friends could be a problem if they are scattered about.

Cabs are infrequent, but you can call them on a cell phone if you ever get in a bind, where you've missed a bus, running late, etc.

If however, you want to explore all the other neighbourhoods and like taking weekend trips, then maybe owning a car is a good idea. There's lots of gorgeous nature all around--deserts, mountains, wineries, beautiful coastal areas. You'll have more freedom to explore with a car. But you need to ask yourself if you have the time for that--will it be worth it for a short stay?

good luck and enjoy!