The London Underground rail network, or or "the Tube" is a great way to travel to and from Central London and will be an integral part of most people's stay in the UK capital. It's a great way to go places but it's not the easiest. Read up so you won't have to hail that cab.
1. TUBE TICKETS: Although paper tickets can still be bought for the Tube, the Oyster is much more preferred because of its convenience and efficiency. Pre-paid Oyster cards are cheaper and more efficient especially at rush hour. Just don't forget to make sure that your card is still loaded.
2. MAKE THE MOST OUT OF IT: London's underground network is actually mostly overground and stretches from the heart of the city to the fringes of the countryside. Learn the routes and how to navigate the maps.
3. PEACE BE WITH ALL THE PASSENGERS: The riders of the Tube want to keep it zipped. They won't react well to loud music, chatter or any form of loud noise. It's not a place to meet new friends let alone have animated conversations in. Mind your own business and keep on it.
4. NO MUNCHING = NO PUNCHING: Not that anyone would hit you if you decide to eat on the Tube. Not usually. However, when surveyed about the most annoying Tube habits, Londoners said this was what bothered them the most: eating and/ or smelling food on the network. It really doesn't make for a pleasant, even just endurable, train ride when you're squeezed to a corner by a million people and the smell of tuna sandwich is mixed through the thick layer of sweat stench.
5. PLAY RIGHT: When it comes to the Underground, navigating the escalators leading to or from the platform, the "keep right" rule is followed. Being on the right side allows other passengers who are especially on a hurry to move and walk faster. In addition to giving way, Tube "boarders" should stand to the side of the doors to allow Tube "disembarkers" to exit swiftly.
6. DON'T PRESS OPEN BECAUSE IT WON'T: Ladies and gentlemen, the doors open automatically. No need to press the "open door" button. It's just there to amuse and to give the passengers something to laugh about.
7. SHOULD I STAND OR STAY SEATED?: So everyone is created equal and women can vote and have jobs now. You are not expected to give up your seat. But as in most cases of transportation etiquette,you should give up your seats for the elderly, people with disability and pregnant women. By doing this you're not being Hugh Grant, you're just being human. Just do it.
8. BE PREPARED FOR SPACE INVASION: The Tube is like a sardine can. With another can in it plus about a hundred more sardines all inside that one can. Be mindful of the lack of arm room and adjust accordingly. Avoid finishong someone's crossword and don't read over another person's shoulders. They can feel you when you do it. Also at some point, you will have to reach for the hand rail so do everyone a favor and please remember to wear deodorant. A few swipes can save humanity.
9. TEACH YOU BAG SOME MANNERS: Very simple. Your bag doesn't have the right to get seated. Expect murderous stares if your bag is more comfortable than the person standing in front of you. It is also recommended to place your backpack on the floor and not on your back as the former will take up more space and can hit someone when you move.
10. LET OTHERS OFF BEFORE YOU GET ON: This is basic etiquette. Thease people can acyually miss their stop if you insist on getting in first. If you do miss your train, there's always another one. If they miss their stop, chances are it's going to be a bigger hassle for them. Be courteous and considerate.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
