What is the Penn shuttle?

From JFK to Penn Station, is it better to take the train or the shuttle?

• I'm going to New York this weekend, and I have to go from JFK to Penn Station. I'll have my handbag and a suitcase. Which is better to get from one place to the other? Also, I read in the shuttle website that the cost of the round trip is about $35, and I like the fact that it can drop me exactly at the hotel I'm staying. But if I'm saving considerably more money by taking the train, I'll definitely consider it (although I have to make one stop at Jamaica Station). My main concern is getting lost or taking the wrong train. So, native new yorkers, what do you think?

• Answer:

  My friend, if your hotel located near Penn Station, I would recommend saving your $35 and take public transit instead. From JFK, you can take the Airtrain to Jamaica, where a connection can be made to the Long Island Railroad, which will get you to Penn Station in 20 minutes. The one way fare on the Airtrain is $5, while the one way off peak fare on the LIRR is $5.75. If you're traveling to the city on a weekend, you can purchase a CityTicket for $3.50 one way. Overall, you be spending between $9 and $11 on public transit, compare to $35 on the SuperShuttle. I hope this information was very helpful. If you have any questions or need travel directions while in town, just drop me a line by clicking on the avatar and e-mail icon in the profile. I'll be glad to help. Good luck