Are you tired of being in the car, stuck in traffic? Are you unable to walk or cycle to your workplace? Then take the bus! Public transportation in your city may be much cheaper and easier than driving, and taxis are expensive, especially when you get stuck in traffic or live too far from your workplace.
Steps
Step 1. Find out what are the bus routes and timetables at the various stops
Ask for a map of the network at the bus station, or search the company website.
Many public transport companies also report the routes on the stop signs.
Step 1. If you have to take the buses in the evening make sure you wear light clothing that stands out and / or signal your presence to the driver with something bright (such as a cell phone or a flashlight)
Step 2. Find out if you are entitled to discounted or free tickets for your age, why you are a student, why you are disabled etc
You can usually buy discounted tickets at the ticket office of the bus station
Step 3. Find out if a season ticket or multiple ticket is worthwhile for your usual journeys
Step 4. Find the nearest useful stop, and check the times when the buses should pass (usually indicated at the stop)
Step 5. Make sure you are taking the bus in the right direction
Don't just trust the line number. Buses stop at certain stops that go both ways, and if you just look at the number you may find that you are drifting away from your destination.
Step 6. Dress appropriately for the weather so that you don't feel uncomfortable while waiting for the bus or when changing connections
Step 7. Get in line and have your ticket or season ticket ready, or cash if the ticket is to be sold on board
In this case, if the ticket is also sold on the ground, you could pay a surcharge. It is a good idea to have money counted to avoid the driver having to look for the change to give you.
Step 8. When the bus arrives check the destination and line number to make sure it is the right one
If you are unsure, go to the door and ask the driver for confirmation.
Step 9. Approach the door closest to the driver
Let the passengers alight if the bus has only one door, otherwise get on the door indicated for the boarding or entry, then get on the bus and say hello to the driver.
Step 10. Put the coins in the machine, if this system is in use, or cancel the ticket
Step 11. Keep the stamped ticket from the machine (or the one the driver gave you, if you bought it from him), you may need to show it to the conductor
Step 12. Find a place to sit
Remember that there are places reserved for people with disabilities or the elderly. Sit in those seats only if you really have to, and give them away if an elderly or disabled person (or a pregnant woman) arrives.
Step 13. If you can't find a seat, move away from the doors and find a suitable place to stand
Hold on to one of the top posts or handles.
Step 14. When your stop is approaching you must request it (there are usually red buttons all over the bus, along the inside side or in the poles)
Press the button when the bus is about 200 meters from the stop.
Step 15. When the bus stops, make sure you don't forget anything (bag, umbrella, cell phone) and say hello to the driver as you get off
Be careful not to fall.
Advice
If you are the only person at the stop and you see a bus approaching that you shouldn't take, let the driver know that they shouldn't stop (for example, turn your back or wave no), so if no one should get off you can continue your journey and avoid an unnecessary stop
Warnings
- Beware of pickpockets - they often take advantage of the fact that the bus is crowded!
- While the bus is in motion, sit or hold on to the appropriate supports.
- If you use your mobile phone on the bus, remember to respect the rules of good manners and do not disturb too much.
