Five Tips to Master Any City’s Transportation System

Whatever city your itinerary leads you to next, chances are there’ll be a network of buses and trains waiting. Even if you can’t read the maps and the currency exchange isn’t making sense, most public transportation systems are similar. These universal tips will make travel anywhere a breeze.

Research Before Leaving

With translators, apps and websites dedicated to helping people find their way around the world, it’s easy to look up directions before arriving in a new city. Have a general idea of where you’ll be going and staying, and look up directions before leaving home.

Write Down the Important Places

If you don’t speak the native language, jot down the names of the desired locations, station stops and the estimated time of the journey. This way, you’ll be able to tell if you’re getting lost and will be able to say where you want to go, even if your phone dies or there’s no WiFi available.

Say Hello Like the Locals

When asking passerby for directions, make sure to greet them in the local language. They’ll appreciate the effort, so even if you do have to resort to English a second later, they’ll be less intimated and more willing to help.

Ensure Travel Is Legit  

Make sure to book safe, legal transportation with the right people by avoiding unmarked vehicles and non-uniformed workers who offer amazingly cheap or unbelievably steep prices.

When in Rome…

Before joining the crowds, observe the unspoken rules. How fast are people walking? Which side of the escalator do people stand on and which side do they use to pass? Do people stand close or try to leave personal space? Once you figure out the rules, adapt and go with the flow.