Southampton - Hamptonites knew of the Hampton Jitney long before Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha took it to the beach on "Sex and The City." The company began in 1974, with one van and a route among the communities of Eastern Long Island and Metropolitan New York. Hampton Jitney now boasts a large fleet with jaunts to NYC and beyond for Broadway shows, shopping, and more.

Those who prefer their Jitney the traditional way (to and from the Hamptons), but want a bit more luxury, should try the new Ambassador Service featuring extra-wide seats that are just three to a row. The Ambassador Coach carries just half the passengers of a regular coach. The seats have extra legroom, since the coach was initially designed for basketball players. There is spacious overhead and underneath storage compartments, plus individual electric power outlets for business travelers. In addition to rapid boarding, you get complimentary refreshments, snacks and reading material on every trip.

Those who prefer their Jitney the traditional way (to and from the Hamptons), but want a bit more luxury, should try the new Ambassador Service featuring extra-wide seats that are just three to a row.

Throughout the year, Hampton Jitney organizes special event packages and day trips that include casinos, area sporting events, shopping trips, and Broadway shows. Packages available now include a NYC trip to see "Wicked" or "White Christmas" on Nov. 19, "Shrek The Musical" on Dec. 6, or "Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular" on Dec. 11.

Hampton Jitney also operates a fleet of luxury motor coaches and limousines that travel beyond Long Island as far as Boston and Florida.

Boston trips run throughout the year and for holiday travel via the Port Jefferson Ferry. You can get on board at Southampton, Hampton Bays, Farmingville, or Port Jefferson and travel straight into downtown Boston with a quick stop in Newton. The Jitney allows two carry-on bags and two checked bags at no extra charge. The trip to Boston is $59 one-way ($98 round-trip). You need a credit card to hold a reservation, which is required since seating is limited.

For Florida "snowbirds," Hampton Jitney's service between New York, New Jersey and Florida is now an option. You can travel to and from Florida aboard either the First Class or the Ambassador Class service, while the Jitney ships your car to your destination. There is an overnight stay en route and then you arrive at your destination in Florida at the same time as your car and you can just hop in and drive away. It's $952 round-trip for a passenger only, $2,196 round-trip for one car and a single passenger, and $3,064 for one car and two travelers.

 • For more information, contact Hampton Jitney at 631-283-4600 or check them out online at www.hamptonjitney.com.