HOUSTON – Tired of the long TSA lines and showing up at the airport three hours ahead of time? Do you want a new way to travel without breaking the bank?
KPRC 2 Traffic Reporter Justina Latimer is exploring several ways you could travel through Texas this Spring Break... in style... and hopefully, within budget.
First up, JSX Airlines.
JSX is a semi-private air carrier that helps ease the process of booking a flight and flying. Unlike major commercial airlines, JSX only offers 30 seats, to allow customers more legroom and comfortability, and operates out of private terminals and hangers, which are usually adjacent to major airport locations. The JSX location in Houston is near Hobby Airport, located at 8919 Paul B Koonce Street.
“The things you can experience on JSX, you can really only get on a private jet,” said CEO Alex Wilcox.
JSX, which is a hop-on jet service, makes boarding fairly simple for its customers, allowing them to show up to the private terminal and board 20 minutes before a flight.
“Small is also beautiful because it only takes about 90 seconds to board this airplane. We will valet your bags right to the plane side. After you land, your bags just come straight off,” said Wilcox.
So, how much will this luxury experience cost you?
An average roundtrip ticket from Houston to Dallas will cost you just under $400 on non-peak days or times.
“Prices are very reasonable. So, it matters to me, and I can strive because I have back pain with long distance. So, this will work for me, especially as I do business travel,” said JSX customer Spei Akhavi.
When comparing JSX to a major airline, like United or American, which also provides travel to Dallas, the cost of a roundtrip -- business or first-class -- will ultimately run you around the same price or a bit more, depending on the dates and times.
But, if flying isn’t you’re thing, we explored a VIP ride option -- Volane.
Volane is a luxury bus service that travels from Houston to Austin, Dallas and San Antonio for less than $100.
“To drive to Dallas or Houston, roundtrip, is exhausting. So, I wanted to give people an alternative and I wanted to target primary high-end business travelers,” said founder and CEO Alex Danza.
Volane is different from your typical bus services, giving customers a more luxurious experience.
“Once you are onboard the coach, you’ve got assigned seating. As you can see, there are no middle seats. Everything is oversized. It’s a little bit bigger than what you see in a first-class seat on an airline. The beauty of this is the recline. Passengers love it. If you are a leisure traveler, you can really get some nice rest here,” Danza said.
Customers will also get an attendant who can assist them during their trip, along with a blanket and an onboard meal service.
“We are one of the only in the country that has an attendant on board all our trips,” said Danza.
To catch Volane, passengers will meet at the Hyatt Regency located downtown or the Galleria area.
Traveling in a small or large group? You may want to look into CharterUp
CharterUP allows small or large groups to rent out buses to passengers traveling to Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and even Los Angeles. Small groups include 15 to 20 passengers, a minibus includes up to 28 passengers and a large bus can hold more than 50 people.
Test out the longest train route in the country with Amtrak Texas Eagle
If you have the time and want to take the more serene route, you may want to look into the Amtrak Texas Eagle, which is the longest train route in the country.
The Texas Eagle offers a scenic journey through the heart of Texas, allowing you to explore various destinations such as Lincoln, Illinois, the Mississippi River, the Ozarks, and the beautiful Piney Woods of East Texas. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of vibrant cities like Dallas and Austin before reaching San Antonio.
Amtrak’s Texas Eagle features double-deck Superliner cars and a dedicated crew to ensure your comfort. Guests booking a private room in a sleeper car enjoy additional benefits such as complimentary meals, lounge access, and a range of amenities including a fold-down tray, 110V outlet, attendant call button, lighting and climate controls, clothes closet, soap, and towels.
Want to keep it local? Take the Texas State Railroad
Step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era by boarding a refurbished train car at the Texas State Railroad. Embark on a relaxing 4-hour roundtrip train excursion from Palestine to Rusk and back, surrounded by the enchanting piney woods of East Texas. As autumn sets in, you’ll be treated to a picturesque scene with leaves turning shades of gold, orange, yellow, and red, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
During your journey, take in the rich history of the railroad communities, indulge in delicious food at the Rusk Mail Car Cafe, and explore the unique gifts and keepsakes at Roundhouse 1909 in Palestine. Enjoy comfortable seating, listen to captivating historical narratives, interact with friendly and entertaining staff, and even sample delectable food and adult beverages along the way. The four-hour train ride includes a 1.5-hour, 25-mile trip to the destination depot, a leisurely one-hour lunch break, and a pleasant 1.5-hour return trip.