Cars and NYC

You really can survive quite easily without a car in NYC.. the public transport system is extensive and reasonably good and if you are really itching to drive you can always join car share clubs like Zip Car( http://www.zipcar.com/), Mint(http://www.drivemint.com/) and Hertz Connect(http://www.connectbyhertz.com/home.aspx?switch=true). Joining fees for most of these are $50 and then you can hire a car for a day/ an hour by booking your car online. You choose the car you want and then pick it up from any of the many parking garages around the city and off you go. Gas, insurance and EZ pass is usually included in your rental cost. It's relatively cheap and easy and beats the hassle of maintaining a car in NYC.

Cool, I didn't know it was so easy to hire a car. For when you want to buy bulky items for the apartment or something, makes sense.

When using Zipcar, you are charged for EZ pass. You get charged for that separately. I don't know anything about the other companies. Despite being charged for EZ pass the fact gas and insurance is included is a great deal.

When I want to go out, I don't worry about having a car. I take the train. If I want to go to Long Island, I take the LIRR. I did this yesterday and made out quite well. Walking is good for the body. It raises the heart beat. And since yesterday was cold and windy, by walking, my friend and I used up quite a number of calories.