JUST IN TIME FOR THE #1
For this theatregoer, getting around Manhattan in a thrifty way is necessary. On this trip a 7- day pass costs $32. A single trip costs $2.75.
I prefer to use the #1 (Local) or #2 (Express) Lines. The express may not work if it doesn’t make a stop near your temporary residence. Some important hubs for transfers to other extensions downtown and midtown include 14th St, 34th St (Penn Station), 42nd St and 59th St (Columbus Circle).
The trick to using this N/S line is knowing whether or not your destination is downtown or uptown.
I know that one hears many stories about riding the subway system which can be unsettling to tourists. The truth is that it can be overcrowded, but you’ll find a wide assortment of local residents, tourists, students, families, well-dressed, slovenly and occasional oddballs.
A few suggestions…
Don’t ride in the wee hours of the morning when you can find yourself almost alone in a subway car. Asking for trouble.
Don’t stare at anybody. Most riders keep their eyes focused on their smartphone or the floor. Many wear earbuds.
Accommodate your fellow passengers and squeeze in whenever possible. Try to stay near the exit door if your stop is next.
Here are the “incidents” I encountered within my approx. 30 trips during this vacation:
*One loudmouth outburst involving aggressive and filthy language not directed at anyone in the subway car after she read about a rival’s activities on her phone…2 different sessions that went on for 5 minutes each in two different areas of the subway car
*One aggressive female verbally threatening a male passenger sitting opposite her because he was supposedly staring at her. She eventually mentioned the possibility of macing him.
*2 different “sad sack” begging instances. Many of these are untruthful unfortunately.
Never a concern for my safety. I am wary and mind my own business. Most passengers are focused only on their own needs and are not particularly gregarious (although not unkind at all).
Vacays…Getaway…Way Away
