Highways or Backroads - By: Stuart Hely

You're renting a car for your trip. Now... should you wander the highways or backroads? The fact is you will probably use them both. Let's look at the plusses and negatives for highways or backroads.

For one thing, remember that distances are deceiving when you're traveling on minor roads. It'll always take you much longer than you think when you travel the smaller roads. You need to allow enough time.

Most highways in the U.S. are freeways. There are also some toll roads. You'll find more in the eastern side of the United States than in the Western ones. In Europe, many of the highways are toll roads. Toll roads are becoming more popular around the world. They can be expensive, but they'll get you from one place to another quicker. There are times when that's the ideal thing.... just get to where you want to go. And in some places, travelling the toll road may well be safer.

Sometimes quickest isn't always the ideal way to go. Toll roads will cost you money and whip you through the country side... and just like highways and freeways anyplace, you doubtless won't see as much when you go on highways and freeways. They have a plain sameness about them... all over the world!

Now and again secondary highways and other free roads are older. They may be more heavily travelled on especially in developing countries. You'll pass through small cities and villages where you'll have to slow down. Slowing up is both a plus and a negative side.

The smaller, free highways and back roads will often be the quickest way from small village to small town. Big highways and autobahns tend to be routed around small villages. If you have the time and would like to see more of the place, stay off the toll roads as often they may not have exits where you need them. Occasionally there are long distances between exits.

In Europe, there are great rest stops for food, gas and toilette amenities on all the tollroads. The food may not be as rough as American fast food, but it's still convenient food. American highways are trashed with fast food stops and cheap cafes.

On back roads or free roads, you can find food and petrol in the towns you pass through. Take your time and stop for lunch in a little local restaurant. You'll get more of a feel for the regional food and the countryside.

Driving those toll roads or freeways might be safer at night. Some free roads or backroads are narrow and can be winding.

In country areas, you may find yourself stuck following farm equipment... or behind a slow driver on those narrow backroads. Of course, as a tourist enjoying the views, you might BE the slow driver... why not!

Does this sound like we're confusing ourselves with the pros and cons? We're just trying to show you what to expect with each choice. It's slow travel against getting there quickly. Highways or backroads, you'll want to use them both.

Tolls on toll roads vary from country to country.... some tolls are nominal... in other counties they're pricey. Decide if the old "time is money" saying is true for each leg of your trip. Some days you may just want to get from one area to the other hastily, other days you might want to ramble.

Highways tend to take you to cities with pricey hotels. On the back roads you can find local budget accommodations in small towns. So think about the idea of your trip.... highways or backroads. There's a time for both of them and no reason to shun either.

About the Author

This travel tip is brought to you by Stuart Hely of BookCentralCoast.com.au, the specialists in Central Coast accommodation including all your Avoca Beach accommodation needs.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Stuart-Hely/92155

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