the application of the needles is relatively non-painful. we did indeed, and i was master of crashing into things, as i remember. the length of the bus ride will depend upon the student's start and drop-off destination. last minute rentals are always expensive and there is a high chance that service would be compromised as even the taxi provider is limited to whatever vehicle is available at their disposal. made in brass with a silver finish. they just know what the agent told them. awesome, it works like a charm :) very good quality and color. 