Arlington isn't a big county, but the price of a taxi ride will still vary quite a bit depending on exactly where your hotel is.

There are buses that might work. They will not be as frequent or as quick as the Metro trains.

You do not specify your father's disability. You should know that both Metro buses and trains are handicap-friendly: All Metro stations have elevators, and all Metro buses have platforms for loading and unloading patrons in wheelchairs. The buses cana lso "kneel" (drop the entry) to make it easier for riders to step on and off.

Your father will have to judge his own claustrophobia level. Keep in mind that the Metro stations are large. Some platforms (such as West Falls Church in Virginia) are open-air and may not seem too confining. You might try a Metro trip mid-day (away from the morning and evening rush hours) when the system is not crowded, to make your father feel better.

See www.wmata.com for its measures for the handicapped.

Where in Arlington are you staying?

The metro cars stay nice and light inside even when in underground. In fact it is often hard to see how close the tunnel is to the car. Also the yellow line from Crystal City goes up and over the Potomac so it is only a few stops under ground.

Check with your dad's health care provider about possibly using low dose valium or something similar. If he does decide to try this, take the medicine at home first to see how it affects him.

Just to give you an idea of taxi fare between Arlington & D.C. - - I'm used to paying anywhere between $12-$16 one way. This includes the areas between Ballston, Crystal City, Georgetown, and downtown D.C. With the change to meters though, the cost will flucuate.

Thank you for your input. We will be at the Hampton Inn and Suites-Reagan National Airport so it sounds like some of the Metro is above ground. Touching on the handicap permit, it is actually for myself due to hip issues. My walking ability is limited, I use a cane on occasion. The permit allows me to start out closer to my destination and save on my energy level. I appreciate all your ideas and will discuss these with my dad!