General

If you want to travel in comfort and style with your loved ones on your next weekend trip, then a charter bus is the way to go. When you book a charter bus, you won’t have to stress about allocating passengers to multiple vehicles, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. You also won’t have to worry about everyone arriving at different times.

If it’s your first time, you might feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to rent a charter bus for the weekend. Fortunately, it’s a simple task to rent a charter bus for the weekend, as long as you start your planning ahead of time and follow the guide below.

How to Rent a Charter Bus for the Weekend

Figure Out Your Budget

Contrary to popular belief, renting a charter bus is not expensive at all. This is especially evident when you factor in all the money you would normally spend on gas and pre-trip car inspections if you decide to travel to your destination via multiple vehicles.

Rental rates vary across charter bus companies, so you’ll need to research online or make a few calls. To get the most value, reach out to several companies to compare rates. Before you do, however, it helps to have the following information handy:

• Your pickup and return dates and times.
• The number of passengers you are planning on having. 
• Your full itinerary.
• Required facilities, such as a kneel bus, a lift bus, 110 outlets or a PA system.

These details will help ensure that the charter bus company provides you with a quotation that suits your requirements. If the quote seems too high, don’t hesitate to let the reservation specialist of the charter bus company know. They’ll work with you to find solutions that fit your budget.

There are other costs you’ll need to account for when calculating rental expenses, such as the following:

• Parking and Toll Costs: Organizing and paying for parking, as well as covering toll costs, are the responsibility of the parties who rented the bus.
• Lodging for the Driver: Depending on the charter bus company you choose, you might also need to arrange and pay for the costs of your driver’s lodging for the weekend. Remember that drivers can legally not drive for longer than 10 hours. They also need at least eight hours of rest before they can drive the bus again.
• Tips for the Driver: Gratuity is not required. However, feel free to give a tip to show your appreciation if your driver went above and beyond to ensure you have a safe and comfortable trip.

Finalize Your Itinerary

A well-planned trip means less stress for you and your fellow travelers. If you’re not sure how to start planning where to go or what to do on your trip, you can reach out to your charter bus company. They likely know your destination well and can provide some helpful suggestions.

Before your pickup date, make sure you’ve already finalized your itinerary. Be sure to let your charter bus company know the details as soon as you have them. They’ll need to know the stops you’ll be making and approximately how much time you plan to spend at each one.

Make sure to include time for meal breaks and bathroom stops for everyone on board, including the driver.

Exploring attractions on the road to your destination helps ensure you and your loved ones don’t spend too long in transit. This helps keep you and your loved ones from getting bored and provides plenty of opportunities for fun and making memories.

Safe, Reliable Charter Bus Rentals at Competitive Rates

It’s easy to rent a charter bus for the weekend, and it’s also a cost-effective way to travel with a group. When you choose Atlantic Coast Charters, you also get access to amenities your cars might not have, such as reclining seats, onboard WiFi and large under-bus storage bays.

We offer accessibility features, like wheelchair lifts, that make travel more comfortable for persons with disabilities. There’s plenty of space to move around, and our onboard restrooms help reduce the number of bathroom stops you need to make.

Contact us today to learn more about our amenities and facilities or request a quotation.

It can be easy to forget charter bus loading and parking logistics when you’re busy planning a group trip. This is because so many things go into your schedule, such as budgeting and itinerary.

However, a crucial part of your trip is mapping out pick-up and drop-off points, parking and essential permits. Having these things planned out and prepared saves you time, reduces costs and helps you avoid penalties or parking tickets.

Here are the essential factors to consider when planning your logistics.

Charter Bus Loading and Parking Logistics

Your logistics and other needs don’t end with booking a charter bus. The driver and staff won’t be able to plan everything for you. It would be best to determine parking areas and drop-off points for when you reach your destination and local regulations covering oversized vehicles.

Understand the Charter Terminology

Every industry has its jargon, including charter companies and tourist destinations. Here are some of the terms you should become familiar with when making travel arrangements for your bus charter:

• Staging: The staging area is where your charter bus will wait before moving to where it can load passengers. Buses stay in staging areas for a few minutes before transferring to loading and unloading areas.
• Loading and Unloading Areas: These zones are where you get on and off your chartered bus. There are time limits set for each bus, lasting 5 to 15 minutes. Ask the driver to go to the staging and loading area after your group has gathered to board the bus.
• Parking: Each location will have designated parking spaces, which is crucial for oversized vehicles like buses. Contact the facility you’re visiting and inquire about available parking.
• Idling: In many cities and states, vehicles are allowed a specific time to idle at a given location, usually three to ten minutes. If your bus stays in place beyond that limit, the driver will be required to turn off the engine. Remember this when asking your driver to pick up or drop off passengers in various locations.
• On Duty: On-duty time refers to the hours when your driver is considered at work. This includes any time they’re responsible for the vehicle and not necessarily driving it.
• Driving Time: This includes all hours the driver is driving to and from any destination.
• Deadhead: This covers the time your bus travels from the depot to your selected departure point. On-duty, driving time and deadhead hours will be included in the billing costs for charter bus loading and parking logistics. It is best to match the closest charter bus to your designated pick-up points to help you reduce costs.

Plan Your Destination and Contact the Local DOT

It’s crucial to research each destination and plan your trip accordingly as doing so will help you prepare for the traffic, transport accommodations and other essentials. It is best to contact the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT). They can provide travelers with resources to help them plan their trip.

They can also inform you about essential regulations for out-of-town travelers and bus charters. In addition, you will need to plan for areas with travel restrictions for oversized vehicles such as buses. Finally, find out about designated loading and unloading areas, parking, travel permits and other necessities.

Choose Your Pick-Up Points

There are designated pick-up points for each destination, such as museums, landmarks, sports facilities, hotels, airports and other tourist destinations:

• Airports: Since these locations are busy, you will only be allowed a short staging time, so ensure your group knows exactly where to go for seamless boarding. Most airports will have parking maps on their websites to help you plan your logistics. In addition, you should also account for baggage claims and customs times if needed.
• Museums and Other Landmarks: Historic sites and museums usually have designated areas where charter buses can park, load and unload passengers. Parking zones are generally a walk away from these destinations, but arrangements can be tricky during peak seasons with multiple buses in the area.
• Sports Facilities: Sports venues and other facilities usually have accommodations for charter buses. Their staff is used to hosting large groups and can guide you where to stage, load, unload and park. Contact the management staff of these facilities beforehand and make the necessary arrangements since these venues tend to get crowded quickly. You may run out of parking spaces for your charter buses.

Parking, Lodging and Accommodations

Not every destination will have parking and other accommodations for oversized vehicles like RVs and buses. Contact the staff of each destination you plan to visit and inquire about available parking for charter buses.

If they have available spaces, ask for parking rates since buses are usually charged higher due to their size. If the place you’re visiting doesn’t have available spaces to park a larger vehicle, ask if the staff can recommend places where you can park your bus and make arrangements.

Finally, don’t forget that your bus driver also needs a place to rest after a long drive. So make sure the parking area you chose also has accommodations where your driver can have a meal, rest and prepare for the next drive.

Plan Your Bus Charter Logistics with Seasoned Experts

Planning your charter’s parking and logistics can be difficult. Plan your trip with the help of seasoned travel experts who can help you make necessary travel arrangements. At Atlantic Coast Charters, we have proudly served travelers since 2010, helping them plan their group trips. For more information, contact us by filling out this form.

Organizing a trip for a company, school, sports team or any other group events can be daunting. The biggest question you may have is how to rent a charter bus. It’s a better option compared to carpooling or van rentals. However, there are a few extra hurdles you need to pay attention to when renting an oversized vehicle.… Read More »

A bus ride with your team to an away game is the ultimate bonding experience. If you’re an athlete, you’d know how fun and crazy these trips can get, and you probably look forward to them. However, it’s different if you’re  in charge of ensuring the trip goes smoothly.… Read More »

Organizing a team building trip is no mean feat — there’s a lot to plan and prepare for, and one of the most important details to iron out beforehand is how to get to the venue. However, if you’ve opted for a charter bus rental for corporate team building events as your mode of transportation, you’re already on the right track.… Read More »

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Commuters are increasingly more aware of the impact of carbon dioxide emissions on the environment. The travel industry contributes five percent to the overall global carbon emissions. With that in mind, more people are looking for environmentally friendly transportation options.

So, what is the greenest form of transportation? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the yearly carbon dioxide emission of your standard passenger vehicle is a whopping 4.6 metric tons. So, if you’re searching for the most environmentally friendly transportation, go for ones that produce fewer emissions than average.

Rating Options Using Emissions Per Passenger

When figuring out what is the greenest form of transportation, you can use the emission rating of vehicles per passenger on board. It’s a simple way to gauge each transport option. 

Here are the different modes of transportation ranked from the lowest to the highest emission rating. The figures are in grams of carbon dioxide for each passenger per kilometer traveled.

1. High-speed rail (6 grams)
2. Charter bus (27 grams)
3. Domestic rail (41 grams)
4. Four passenger car (43 grams)
5. Long-haul flights (102 grams)
6. Public bus (104 grams)
7. Domestic flights (133 grams)
8. Single passenger car (171 grams)

As you can see from the list above, research shows that the most environmentally friendly transportation is via high-speed rail. Examples include Eurostar and Shinkansen (also known as the bullet train). But unfortunately, not every country has high-speed rail like Europe and Japan.

So, what is the greenest form of transportation available in most countries? Looking at the information earlier, you’ll find that it’s the charter bus, also known as the motorcoach. It’s the second-most environmentally safe option and one of the world’s most abundant modes of transport.

Choosing More Sustainable Forms of Transportation

Driving a car running on gasoline with no other passengers produces 171 grams of carbon dioxide for every 0.62 miles compared to a charter bus that only generates 27 grams. If you want a greener option but still want to drive your car, it is best to switch to a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or an electric vehicle (EV).

Both EVs and HEVs are environmentally friendly options. Instead of a combustion engine, these vehicles are equipped with an electric motor. As a result, these vehicles can reduce greenhouse gases by combining high fuel economy and low tailpipe emissions.

If you don’t have electric or hybrid vehicles, your next best option for a more sustainable mode of transport is the bus. A public bus produces 104 grams of carbon dioxide per passenger for over half a mile of travel. So it’s a better option than driving a gasoline-powered car. However, if you’re traveling with a group over long distances, it’s smarter to charter a bus.

The efficiency of a charter bus is based on its carrying capacity. If you want to make the most of your trip, we suggest hiring a chartered bus based on the size of your family or group. For example, if you only have 25 people traveling with you, renting a 58-seater bus won’t be a good option. It’s best to rent a minibus in that case.

The Shift Towards Electric Buses

No doubt, the greenest buses are the ones that run on electricity. However, they’re not so common in our current climate, at least not yet. However, more bus companies are switching to this more sustainable mode of transportation. These buses consume only 20 percent of the energy used by ordinary buses that run on fossil fuels. They also emit four to six times fewer greenhouse gases.

Electric buses have several advantages for bus companies. First, they have long serviceable lifespans, lasting over 12 years. They cost approximately $125,000 less to maintain compared to those running on traditional fuel. Finally, the overall fuel cost of electric buses is $400,000 less than gasoline buses.

Other Ways To Preserve Air Quality

About 17 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. come from light-duty trucks and cars. This vehicle category includes minivans, SUVs and pickup trucks. If you want better air quality, choose a greener mode of transport. Apart from that, the EPA also recommends other strategies to help protect the environment and human health:

• Sustainable transportation planning
• More efficient parking management
• Transit-oriented development
• Sustainable and intelligent street design

Choose Fuel Efficient and Environmentally Friendly Bus Charters

As the prices of electric buses go down in the future, you’ll see more firms switch their fleets to this type of vehicle. In the meantime, your best option is to hire chartered buses and plan your trip. At Atlantic Coast Charters, we provide state-of-the-art, modern, fuel-efficient bus charters. Contact us today to get a free quote and learn more about sustainable transport options.

The history of public bus transportation traces its roots back to the 1820s, beginning with horse-drawn carriages. Even though different methods of public transport have been tried, their purpose hasn’t changed: to provide safe, affordable, efficient, and comfortable transportation for the masses.

Pioneering Efforts in Public Transportation

Initial attempts at providing public transportation began in the 1660s in France. Blaise Pascal developed a system of horse-drawn carriages across Paris’s streets. However, the novel idea only lasted a decade since Pascal’s proposed transport system was only made available to the nobility (a limited market) and didn’t support an actual public need.

Horse-Drawn Buses

The history of bus transportation began around a century and a half later, in 1826. France was again at the forefront of the effort to establish a system of long horse-drawn buses called the omnibus. The service was offered to both commoners and aristocracy, which helped to make it a success.

The omnibus also became popular in many other cities later on. People favored it because one bus could carry up to 42 passengers while drawn by three horses. Soon after, in 1828, the first omnibus line was established in New York. More bus lines were later established in other U.S. cities.

The word “bus” we use today is short for the word omnibus. The word “omni” is Latin for “all” or “many.” However, another theory is that the omnibus name was derived from the Omnes bus line in Paris.

The omnibus had a few downsides, though. First, it was uncomfortable for passengers because it had to tread cobblestone roads. Another drawback was the high fare price, estimated to be 12 cents one way. But later on, it gained popularity amongst the growing middle class.

The First Rail System

The next stage in the history of public bus transportation involves establishing the first public rail system. Cities began to lay down rails over the routes plied by omnibuses to make public travel more comfortable. They also made it easier for horses to pull more weight, thus increasing the capacity of these horse-drawn buses. The fares were also reduced to 5 cents, allowing more people to afford this mode of public transport.

Urbanization and City Planning Improvements

Rapid urbanization ensued after the ease of travel was provided for the working class. Further, urban development and better city planning resulted from the accommodation of bus routes. These developments became some of the precursors to the Industrial Revolution. As a result of these efforts, 20,000 horse-drawn buses were added throughout the U.S., and over 30,000 miles of railways were laid during this time.

Early Traffic Jams and Equine Influenza Outbreak

Traffic jams aren’t a modern phenomenon. Road traffic wasn’t regulated back in those early days when employees began traveling to work from home. And the increased number of people and vehicles on the streets resulted in many traffic jams. In addition, with more horses pulling buses on the streets, the amount of manure they left became a public health concern.

Those weren’t the only problems surfacing during public transportation development. For example, in 1872, an equine influenza outbreak caused thousands of horses’ deaths, halting the operations of many horse-drawn bus operators.

The Modern History of Bus Transportation

Innovations and solutions were needed to improve public transportation to resolve the many concerns in its development. One of which was the cable car.

Andrew Smith Hallidie invented a cable-driven bus system in 1873 in San Francisco. It was better suited to handle the rolling hilly terrain in the city, which proved to be a significant difficulty for horse-drawn carriages. His modified cars ran on the same rail system already in place. The only modification needed was a moving cable between the rails.

Unfortunately, cable cars proved unsafe since the cables that were used to mobilize them tended to snap under the weight of the vehicles, resulting in many accidents. They rightly went out of service shortly after. Today, you can still find several cable cars on San Francisco’s streets, but they’re only used for nostalgia, not public transport purposes.

The next phase in the history of public bus transportation moved into the modern era in 1881. Electric-powered cars were introduced to replace the cable-operated ones that were out of service. They were an innovative way to use the already existing railway system.

These electric cars could carry passengers many miles, further extending the former capacity of horse-drawn buses. Introducing this modern public transport system was seen as a major improvement in the history of public transportation.

But nothing prepared this industry and the nation for what was to come. The Great Depression of the 1930s caused many businesses to declare bankruptcy. And during that time, many bus lines closed due to the failing economy. After World War II, more electric cable car operators closed shop due to the strict rationing of gasoline, rubber tires and other necessities.

The Advent of the Modern Motorized Bus

However, it was at this time during the post-World War II era when the motorized bus gained popularity. The first motorized bus was developed in 1895 by Karl Benz, but it took a while before his invention gained public notice. Later on, France opened the first motorized bus line in 1906.

Gasoline-powered buses allowed government and city planners to avoid the huge costs of laying down new rails. In addition, these vehicles were more flexible and able to travel in areas where rail-based buses couldn’t.

Mercedes Benz designed the first modern bus with a spacious body and a rear engine. It paved the way for more modern bus designs such as school buses, intercity lines, and city transit buses.

Public cars also gained popularity in the 21st century. However, the rising fuel costs made buses an excellent option for the public.

Electric and Eco-Friendly Buses

In recent years, the environmental impact of gasoline-powered vehicles has become a modern concern in the modern world. With sustainability as the focus, bus companies are moving towards using electric fuel-celled and hybrid buses. Many countries worldwide aim to convert their bus fleets into electric models to reduce their carbon footprint while still providing modern comforts to their passengers.

Enjoy Your Next Bus Trip With Atlantic Coast Charters

The history of public bus transportation demonstrates human creativity. It also shows us the human ability to rise above challenges that come during different stages of development and growth.

Today’s modern bus lines enjoy this heritage of innovation and resilience. So enjoy your next bus trip and continue that tradition of excellence with Atlantic Coast Charters. We live up to these lofty standards providing our clients with excellent onboard amenities for the modern traveler. Contact us today to get a free quote and learn more about modern transport options via chartered buses.

The daily work grind can make you and your team feel worn out. If you’re an educator, you may notice that schoolwork can take its toll on students, which affects their performance. To help ease tensions, you can have some time off, relax, unwind, build your team and regain your bearings with a day trip.… Read More »

A day trip from Washington DC can be an excellent opportunity for team building. It’s also a great way for families to get together and enjoy historic places, nature and life outdoors. If you’re looking for a wonderful place for a weekend getaway, you’ll find a list of the top five-day trip destinations from Washington DC below:… Read More »

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It’s time to make travel plans for your large group or club, and you have been tasked with this responsibility. Your group could fly, go by train, carpool caravan-style, or charter a bus rental. You must find the best mode of transportation, without breaking the bank.

How to Save Money on Your Group Tours

If you have been assigned to handling travel arrangements for your group, you know even the best-laid plans can experience a hiccup or two. 

You may have figured traveling by a group bus rental might be the most cost-effective route, and may be considering planes, trains, and automobiles as other viable options. But what about convenience and affordability?

1. Traveling by Plane

A charter bus rental will be perfect to solve the logistics of getting everyone to the airport on time.

There’s another fact to consider – travelers within the United State are required to have a “Real ID”. According to US Travel, 99 million Americans lack the proper identification to travel by plane. There may be someone in your group without the right identification. 

The cost of air travel may also be steep for the entire group. According to Inc, traveling by air is the most expensive mode of transportation. Cost alone is a good reason not to choose this travel option.

2. Going by Train 

Trains are another choice of transportation, and can even be cost-effective. Still, you’ll need to get everyone to the train station on time. 

While going by train may offer similar benefits to a group bus rental, such as cost-efficiency, it lacks the ease of usage, which can take all the fun out of traveling. 

3. Carpool Caravan Style

There are a few benefits to carpooling. Freedom in travel, choosing your own route, and having a personal vehicle with you on your trip are a few. However, you do sacrifice safety and potentially reliability when driving multiple vehicles on the road. 

Carpooling with a caravan is an option, but not cost-effective, and it’s also risky. 

4. Bus Rentals 

After weighing all your options, and factoring all the risks along with the benefits, it makes sense to choose a bus rental for your travel plans in a large group. Safety, cost-efficiency, reliability, and comfortability. These are only a few perks of group bus rentals, the list goes on. 

The question is which charter service is the one for you? 

What to Consider When Choosing a Charter Bus Service 

You have determined that a bus rental is best for your large group, and now you must find the right one. Safety, reliability, and affordability are just a few of the things to consider. 

1. Safety 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) gives a safety score to all commercial motorcoach companies. Atlantic Coast Charters has the highest score given by the FMCSA, with zero accidents reported in the last 24 months, as of November 2020.

Knowing your group will be safe in the care of experienced drivers offers you the peace of mind knowing that you have made the right choice. 

2. Reliability 

It’s not just important that you get there safely, it’s also important that you get there on time. Reliability is one of our top priorities when it comes to customer satisfaction.  

Here at Atlantic Coast Charters, our well-maintained vehicles ensure your group will arrive on time, every time. 

3. Affordability 

 Falling within your budget for travel is also vital. This can give you more for other fun activities during your trip. Our competitive pricing and incentive programs help save you even more on your travels with us, now and in the future. 

Saving Money with a Group Bus Rental 

At Atlantic Coast Charter, we are family-owned and operated. With more than 10 years in operation, the latest technology, and decades of expertise among the members of our team, we are confident your experience with us will be a positive one. 

Offering affordable group bus rental services is part of our dedication to our customers. 

Next time your group needs to travel, choose Atlantic Coast Charters, for a safe and reliable ride at a pocket-friendly price. Get a quote today! 

Traveling with young children is challenging. You have to ensure they are safe, comfortable, and enjoying the entire time. 

Unlike adults who can control emotions, children need an outlet for their high energy and are less capable of exercising emotional restraint. Your transportation options include private cars, planes, and charter buses. 

With big groups, charter bus rentals for family trips are safe, economical, and convenient.

Planning a Bus Trip with Young Children

When traveling with younger children, you must plan things ahead of time. You always have to consider that kids tend to be restless. Make sure that you have everything mapped out, including breaks.

To learn more about planning a bus trip with younger children, here are a few tips to consider. 

Pick a Destination

Planning largely depends on your selected destination. Are you traveling to a remote alpine village or the nearby seaside resort city? Are the roads long and winding, or mostly flat and paved? 

The route and travel time will affect your choice of transportation. If you are heading on to a long journey, you are wise to book family bus rentals to ensure comfortable seating for all. 

Also, pack food and schedule stops for restroom breaks. 

Check the Weather

Schedule your trip around the weather because you do not want to risk your family’s safety. 

You do not stressed-out children on a trip making it difficult to drive and adding to other immediate concerns. Bad weather also delays rescue in the event your car breaks down. 

It is also important to check the weather forecast at your destination. 

Define Your Passengers

How young are the kids? How many family members will join the trip? Is there anyone in the group who is motion-sensitive? When describing your passengers, be as detailed as possible. 

Include their age, medical history, travel-related sensitivities, seating preferences, food allergies, and even the amount of luggage they usually bring. The task is painstaking, but it will significantly reduce your stress. 

Doing so will also help you make more informed decisions. Say, if you have more than ten people in the group, all bringing their ski equipment, then you know for sure that you need roomy transportation. In this case, bus rentals for family trips will prove valuable. 

Pack the Essentials

Regardless of the distance, you need to leave room for trip essentials– medicine, food and water, batteries (bring extra), toiletries, and extra clothing. Even if the trip is not an overnight stay, extra clothing and toiletries are useful when kids are around. 

Medicines, toys (or other entertainment options), and snacks are essential luggage loads for kids, too. You never know when your 7-year-old son will get bored, or your 3-year-old daughter will get an upset stomach.

Travel essentials also vary depending on your activity. Bring puff jackets when skiing, swimsuits when hitting the beach, and picnic blankets when camping in summer.

The Convenience of Traveling with Atlantic Coast Charters

It is vital to plan for travel contingencies when kids are on board – car breakdowns, medical concerns, potty breaks, and slow pacing, to name a few. With Atlantic Coast Charters, we ensure the comforts of our passengers regardless of age.

Our company is flexible and takes into consideration the uniqueness of each situation. We assure you that you and your children will enjoy the holiday.

For more details on chartered bus rental, contact us today.

In the United States, Christmas is one of the largest shopping holidays of the year. In 2018, holiday retail sales reached over 700 billion, including Christmas trees, decorations, and gift-giving. However, recent surveys say that up to 61 percent of Americans received at least one unwanted gift during the holidays. While it may be the thought that counts, a gift of memories and experiences may be better received and more affordable. 

Christmas road trips bring families together for sights that you won’t see at any other time of year. The Christmas decoration, the lights, the atmosphere — there’s nothing else like it during other seasons. 

6 Christmas Road Trip Ideas for this Holiday Season 

Are you searching for Christmas road trip ideas? This year, it’s been difficult for many Americans to get out of the house due to the safety concerns presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, there are several Christmas road trip ideas that you can indulge in without putting yourself at risk. 

These six Maryland and Virginia Christmas stops provide a unique experience that is perfect for this holiday season. 

1. Norfolk Botanical Garden 

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is hosting the Dominion Garden of Lights this year. Visitors will get to experience a beautiful drive through a two-mile stretch of the gardens. The Norfolk Botanical Garden has been ranked in the top two of the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights by the Readers’ Choice Travel for two years. If you love Christmas lights and festive decorations, the Norfolk Botanical Garden is one stop you won’t want to miss. 

2. Newport News Park Celebration in Lights 

Visit the Newport News Park this year for the 18th annual Celebration in Lights. This year, the Celebration in Lights will be Virginia’s first-ever drive-through Christmas light event to keep everyone safe. This year, Celebration in Lights features over 350 individual seasonal light displays and over three miles of rope lights. 

3. The Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is no stranger to Christmas lights and holiday decorations. The annual GardenFest of Lights features outdoor decorations, model trains, and light displays with delicious hot chocolate available to help keep you warm. This year, the Lewis Botanical Garden is taking the safety of its visitors seriously. The capacity of the gardens is limited, and timed-arrival tickets must be purchased online in advance. 

4. Merriweather Symphony of Lights 

The Symphony of Lights has been a Columbia tradition for more than 25 years. This family-oriented holiday light show features animated and stationary decorations for a unique Christmas celebration. The light displays span about one mile and offer holiday music through a radio frequency that drivers can tune into. This year, the Symphony of Lights offers both drive-through and walk-through (with limited capacity) opportunities for visitors to enjoy. 

5. Lights on the Bay at Sandy Point State Park  

2020 will mark the 26th annual Lights on the Bay holiday light show at Sandy Point State Park. Lights on the Bay features a two-mile scenic drive across the Chesapeake Bay that has been decorated with both animated and stationery decorative displays. Not only is the Lights on the Bay a unique and breathtaking experience, but the proceeds also benefit the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in the county. 

6. Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg 

The Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg is no stranger to social distancing. They’ve been social distancing since 1995! The city’s Winter Lights Festival takes visitors through a 3.5-mile drive of beautifully and enchanting light display. With over 450 illuminations and lit trees, the Winter Lights Festival offers a memorable experience for you and your family to enjoy this holiday season. 

Rent a Charter Bus to Explore All Your Christmas Road Trip Ideas

If you’re considering these Christmas road trip ideas or some of your own, there are several reasons why you should rent a charter bus. Charter buses provide a safe, comfortable trip for you and your family and friends. This year, enjoy a carefree way to travel. 

Committing to Christmas road trip ideas? Book a charter bus for a unique experience. Contact us today or go online to get a quote. 

Planning corporate outings for your team to participate in can have a huge impact on your workplace dynamics and productivity.

Bringing everyone together to share in an activity will result in better mental health, stronger connections, and cooperation. Your employees will get a chance to connect outside of a work setting and share in new and fun experiences. This adds a whole new dimension to the relationships they build and brings them back to work feeling reconnected to one another and to your corporate goals.

Your employees may also learn new skills and concepts to apply to their projects.

3 Steps for Planning a Great Company Outing

Company outings come in all shapes and sizes. What you decide to plan will depend on the needs and interests of your team.

Use this easy 3-step process as a guide to make your next company outing an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone:

1. Decide on the purpose of your event

Whether you are looking to build cooperation and communication or give your employees a much-deserved break from a big project, determining the exact purpose of your company outing will help you to decide what kind of activity to plan.

One CEO suggests that your corporate event needs to be a brand experience. Choose an activity that builds upon your existing company culture and supports your corporate values.

Here are a few ideas for the types of outings that you can plan:

• Something challenging: Escape room, scavenger hunt
• Something adventurous: Ziplining, paintball
• Something educational: Development workshop, improv lesson
• Something relaxing: Yoga retreat, company barbeque
• Something beneficial: Volunteering, off-site brainstorming session
• Something fun: Sporting event, trivia night

2. Pick a venue and schedule a date 

Once you have decided on what kind of activity you want to plan for your team, you need to find a venue that can accommodate a group of your size.

When it comes to selecting a time and location, it is important to consider convenience. If you want a casual event that can accommodate family members, look for a central location that everyone can access and schedule it on a weekend when people are more likely to be free. If, alternatively, you want to focus more on team building, it is better to make the event part of your workweek.

3. Make a day of it 

Since the purpose of a company outing is to bring everyone together, try planning the whole day around the activity to keep everyone connected and sustain the experience.

Using group transportation, such as renting a coach bus, will allow your team to stay together throughout the day. It is also more efficient than trying to organize rides or asking people to commute to a new location. Plus, booking the transportation helps you to create a schedule for the day without worrying about your employees getting lost or stuck in traffic.

Plan a meal as well. This is a great way to let everyone come together and debrief after you have finished your activity.

Book a Charter Bus for Your Next Company Outing

Renting a coach bus is a great way to bring your team together for a corporate outing. A charter bus rental will eliminate stress for you, the organizer, as well as your attendees by simplifying the transportation situation. It will also set the right tone for your gathering by further fostering relationship building.

Atlantic Coast Charters will get you where you want to go. All you have to do is bring everyone together, book your bus, and enjoy a unique work experience. 

Whether you’re taking a charter bus for business or pleasure, sometimes the trip can be a long one. If you’re planning an upcoming long bus ride, we can help! 

Make the most of your long charter bus ride with these tips from our team of experts!

Plan ahead: 

While picking your bus company, be sure to ask all your questions ahead of time so you can pick the right option for you and know what to expect before you go. Also, make sure to discuss all planned stops, timing, and other logistical details ahead of time. 

Be sure to find out details like – What are the amenities on the bus? How many passengers can it hold, and what is it like inside? Are there outlets, wifi access, etc? Know your needs and preferences ahead of time, and make sure you’re choosing a charter bus company that is the right fit for you and your group! 

Pack smart:

For a long bus ride, make sure you pack everything you need to stay comfortable and entertained! We suggest packing some options and layers of clothing, for example, you might want to pack a sweater or sweatshirt in case you get cold during the ride. 

If you’ll be on the bus overnight or just think you’ll want to nap during the ride, consider a neck pillow, eye mask, ear plugs, and even a lightweight blanket to help you rest while on board.

Our charter buses have wifi and TVs with DVD/CD players, so plan accordingly to help keep yourself and your group entertained! Feel free to bring laptops, tablets, movies, music, games, cards, books, and more with you to help make the trip go by quicker. Be sure to remember all the necessary chargers, headphones, and other accessories.

Don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and more to take with you on your ride! 

Take breaks: 

Just because you’re on a charter bus for a long time doesn’t mean you can’t make stops, get off at a rest stop, and walk around a bit! Stretch your legs and get in a short break or two from the road to stay refreshed on longer trips.

Charter Buses have always been a popular transportation option for group events. Regardless if it is a family gathering, educational excursion, or company getaway, bus rental services can take you to your destination comfortably.

Renting a bus is a convenient and practical option for transporting groups. Charter buses are spacious and airy enough to allow big groups to move around and prevent injuries related to crowding. With high ceilings, extra legroom, and luggage shelves, buses have ergonomically designed features that keep passengers comfortable.

What to Consider Before Renting a Bus

If you are organizing an activity where you expect many participants, renting out a bus is convenient as it can accommodate many people in one ride. But like any other decision, renting a bus entails consideration.  

Bus Route

Some routes are inaccessible by bus. Before booking anything, you must make sure that all roads to your destination are wide enough to accommodate the size of the bus.

Also, you need to check if buses are allowed entry in your city or neighborhood. You do not want your guests to walk halfway through to your house or any venue because of road restrictions

Schedule

Decide whether you want the passengers to meet at a designated pick-up location or be collected individually from their residence. You need to communicate the arrangement with the bus company in advance. This information helps form the itinerary, which helps keep track of time and avoid excess hours added to your bill.

Passengers

Consider your passengers’ profile when hiring a bus. Are they mostly children? Do they have disabilities that require special bus features or services? Does your trip entail eating, and if so, will the bus allow it? Most importantly, how many passengers are there?

Buses vary in size, features, and engine performance. A typical charter bus can carry about 47 to 56 passengers, whereas a minibus has roughly 18 to 32 seats. If you have children on board or persons with disabilities, your bus needs to have accessibility features like a ramp and a designated wheelchair area. 

These details help ensure a safe and comfortable journey for everyone.

Bus Types

The purpose of your trip largely determines the bus type you will rent. A city tour will require provisions for microphones and sightseeing similar to those found in a double-deck bus.

A long journey needs charging ports and luggage racks, while an overnight trip demands the comforts of a sleeper bus, including a toilet. A road party will enjoy an entertainment bus with a sound system performance platform. Purpose and passenger profile always go together when deciding to hire a bus.

Driver Experience

Every bus company strives to keep a fleet of well-maintained vehicles and a staff of highly skilled drivers. Nevertheless, as a client, you can ask for more information about the driver, such as familiarity with the terrain, knowledge about the destination’s traffic rules, and years of experience in driving overnight trips. For safety and comfort, you must know the relevant questions to ask about the driver.

Cost

Budget is always a consideration when hiring rental vehicles. You will find yourself letting go of some comforts to suit your personal or organization’s budget. For example, you may forego a bus toilet feature and instead schedule restroom stopovers in the itinerary to hire multiple buses for over a hundred participants.

Quality Standards for Bus Rentals

Looking for a bus rental that provides high-quality standards is challenging. With Atlantic Coast Charters, our company does not only offer superior service, but we ensure that our customers are satisfied with their experience. 

Hire a charter bus now for a safe and friendly journey. Contact us for free quotes.