Heard a great tip from Sal Zaino for drying your car--after done washing use a Lawn Leaf Blower to remove most of the water then touch up with a cotton towel.

....I think he used an electric leaf blower, which I would actually prefer over a gas one as there is less chance for oily exhaust to spew out onto the car. A good idea, especially for all the cracks and other assorted places the water likes to collect. Only problem is your neighbors will think you've lost your mind.

regarding particles of sand/dirt/whatever, flying in the air - being propelled onto your car surface via a leaf blower. Since that comment, I haven't been able to bring myself to aim my leaf blower at my car. However, it appears to be a brilliant idea.
I bought the California Water Blade and it is excellent (one of the best detailing tools I have). Quick and easy, removes 90% of the water. Follow it up with a drying towel/chamois.

Back in the days when I lived at an appartment, I used to carry a air-blowing tip in my trunk, the kind that slides over the air-chuck found at gas stations (its just a tube and handle shaped like a pistol), I think I bought it at a NAPA store for about $3.

I found a few coin-op car washes (the do it yourself wand variety) in town that also had 'free air' hoses to top off your tires.

I would throw a bucket with towels in my trunk along with a gallon jug filled with tap water and an ounce or so of car wash soap.

Arrive at car wash, dump soapy water in bucket, rinse car, wash car using soapy towel, rinse. Put bucket, towel and jug in trunk.

Drive to 'free air' hose, attach air blower and blow off as much water as possible. It worked great for getting all the water out of the rear view mirrors, etc.

Now I do all my car washing at the house :- )

Robert Jordan