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Riding the tube is the easiest mode of transportation when you want to go around London. In fact, the London Underground has an estimated 1.3 billion passengers every year. The tube makes it easier for tourists and/or first-timer visitors to navigate the city.
So, if you are visiting London and staying at Regency House Hotel which is one of the popular hotels near Oxford Street in London, here are some important tips so you can ride the tube as one of the locals:
· Never use the tube when you’re in central London.
When you’re in central London, it is easier to get around riding a bus or even walking. This is one area that it’s faster to walk then to change tubes.
· The tube does not have a 24/7 service.
The tube does not operate for 24 hours so don’t expect that you can travel by train early morning. Take note that in September 2015, a “night tube” started to operate on certain lines every Friday and Saturday nights. The time varies, but usually, they are open around 5:00 am and closes at around 1:00 am the following day.
· Take advantage of your Oyster or your credit card.
Locals always have with them their Oyster travel card to get discounts. You should take advantage of that as well. When travelling to London, it’s always practical to get an Oyster card. You may also use a contactless payment; it has the same price as the Oyster card.
· Before boarding the train, wait for those getting off to pass through first.
Never attempt to push your way into the tube the moment its doors open. It’s common courtesy to let everyone who is getting off the train to exit before boarding.
You can also read: Central London Attractions – Discovery Guide For a Short Break in London
· Don’t use the tube during rush hour.
If you can adjust your itinerary, never travel via tube during rush hour. You don’t want to squeeze into a train full of tired and stressed working professionals. Since you’re not going to work of some sorts, it wouldn’t hurt to wait for a while. In addition to being more convenient, it is cheaper when you ride after 9:30 am every day. So, relax and use the tube during off-peak hours.
· Expect that you’ll be giving up your seat.
It is common courtesy to give up your seat on the train to a person who may appear to need it more than you do. These are pregnant women, the elderly, or those with children in tow. Fellow riders will just glare at you when you refuse to give up your seat to somebody who needs it the most.
· Don’t stand by the doorways.
When you get on the train, move your way inside and never stay by the doorways. There are passengers who will have to get off at the next station. This also applies to the station platforms. The entrance should never be blocked by passengers waiting to board the train.
· Stand when you’re on the right and walk when you’re positioned on the left.
This is a general rule when you’re on the escalator. Londoners strictly follow this sacred rule.
· Keep it quiet.
A tube is surprisingly a quiet place. Even if a lot of people ride the tube every day, locals know how to keep the noise down – there is no loud music or conversations.
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