I was reading the info on transportation from the residence halls to SMU main campus. The SMU website states that for the first 3 weeks shuttle buses will be provided. What is most of the student's mode of transportation after those 3 weeks? Is it feasable to ride a bike or is it a necessity to buy a car? I'm just really worried about the expense of living there if i'm gonna have to take out a loan by myself.

When I was there, they kept the Bus/Taxi thing running the whole semester. I think they keep that going if there is enough demand.

Lots of peopel also buy bikes and ride to school. I borrowed my friends bike to go to the library one day, but I didn't like it...I just got too sweaty, and I hate that.

Buying a car is a solid option. If you are going to be there all 4 semester, its worth the price. Don't get one right away though, wait a couple of weeks and develop some potential roommates/people to split the car with, and you will be all set.

thanks. Splitting the cost is a good idea. Btw, is the cost of living on the island really that expensive compared to the states? I'm financing my medical education on my own -- w/ help of loans -- so i'm wondering if it's possible to live off my loans.

forget a car, just mooch off of a friend, most people do. I have been riding a bike the entire time. If that isn't enough the buses run regularly enough that you can catch one (during normal hours).

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People catch rides from me EVERYDAY.. never offer any gas money.. they may mention it from time to time.. but never give it.. It doesn't matter.. I have to go that way everyday anyway.. so no sweat off my back.

It is HOT and riding a bike is doable.. but sucks big time. The bus is $2 each way.. So figure $20CI a week for the bus.. However.. it sucks waiting in the rain for a bus. My class got a bus driver to be there at the same time everyday, RH and school. I think he also gave them the ride for $1.50 each way. The only problem is.. not everyone will want to go to school at the same time.
There a few people that are sharing a car, one bought the car, the other pays for insurance and gas, etc. However.. that gets tricky too.

A "decent" car will cost you around $4000 CI, insurance will be around 600-750CI (has to paid all upfront for the year). SO, 5-7 Grand US to get something that will last you 16 months. I think it is worth it. Then you can at least get back 70-80% of your money when you leave. Nice chunk of change back in your pocket to hit 5th semester with.

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John Webb, MS, DC, CCEP, DAAIM, FAAPM
SMU
STUDENT
MD 2010
MBA 2009

A bad day at school is still better than a good day at work.

Hello,

the bus to and from campus will last as long as students will use it.
The September semester being large, it is most likely that it will carry on for the entire semester.
If you have a special shedule with a group of students, then you can ask a local taxi driver and split the cost. Keep in mind that you will be arriving at the slowest time of the year, and everyone is keen on getting business.

See you in September,

__________________
Sebastien Guilbard, M.B.A
Residence Hall/Residence Suites Manager
SGUILBARD@smu.ky or
SGUILBARD@smucayman.com

Actually you can get a "descent" car for under $3000 CI. I did. No major problems. Just a few tire changes here and there. Ill be selling it at the end of this semester. PM me if you're interested.

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[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]

I'm sure by what he meant by decent is that the car would have no need for any mechanical or functional repairs. All of my friends that brought cheap cars were at the mechanic at least once a month. In the long run its all the same price. IF you buy a car now for 2000 CI, you could prolly sell it back for 1500 CI but the same time you have prolly spend an addition 700 CI in repairs (battery, tires, exhaust, ac etc etc).

if you buy a car lets for around 4000 CI. Keep it in great shape. The least should sell it for would be around 3800. Now with no car repairs needed who spent the most money in the long run?


Moral of the story. Any economic professor would say. Invest now and receive the greater dividends later.

I am planning on bringing a couple pair of running shoes, building a rickshaw, and starting my own business...

Until they boot you off the island for working without a work permit..LOL...Might want to bring a boat too..jk

__________________
John Webb, MS, DC, CCEP, DAAIM, FAAPM
SMU
STUDENT
MD 2010
MBA 2009

A bad day at school is still better than a good day at work.