London Transit
I can’t help but compare it to Chicago’s situation, which means it’s definitely better. However it is also much more expensive. Ballpark comparison: a single ride in Chicago will cost you $2, whereas a comparable ride in central London could cost you $4. It adds up. An unlimited monthly pass for central London is about twice as expensive as one in Chicago.
The swipeable transit card (similar to our Chicago card) is called the Oyster card (as in, London is your oyster). Every Londoner made fun of the name.
The Tube runs from around 5:30 to around midnight. So, not 24 hours a day, a department in which Chicago is better. There are night buses running when the Tube is closed but all the natives were pretty unenthusiastic about them. Confusing?
More on the buses: a very smooth ride, but there are absolutely no maps posted aboard and the driver doesn’t call out the stops. You have to know in advance where you’re going and where you want to get off, not always easy in London. Bus stop locations and frequencies are also a bit tricky. Yes, double-decker buses are still in operation and the view from the top is lovely.
Tube stations are remarkably clean. A signboard on the platform lets you know EXACTLY when the next train will be arriving. Some of the bus stops even have these signboards. Why the hell can’t we have them in Chicago?
My conclusion: mass transit in London is pricey but reliable, the biggest drawbacks being a somewhat confusing bus system and trains that aren’t 24 hours a day. Oh, and just like in Chicago, everyone complains about the transit system.
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