I regularly go between the two cities on business and to visit family. Getting fed up with the ever-rising air ticket prices, security lines and flight delays. Do you think train service is just as efficient, cost-effective or even better? PJL, Long Island NY

A: Before you make your next travel plans, check online sources for the latest in Amtrak service between those cities. For example, a recent inquiry about a round-trip ticket by train was $70, while a flight was $240. Of course, there are other costs. Getting from your Long Island home to Penn Station by taxi, bus or local train costs an additional $50, and about the same to JFK airport.

Actually, whatever your choice, it takes a total of about four hours each way from home to destination on either train or flight. And usually costs more than twice as much to fly.