One of the most stressful parts of travelling has to be finding your ways to get around. Transportation can be provided in so many different ways around the world. We all travel expecting certain standards and reliability (or lack there of) but a lot of times things just aren’t the same. The main concern when it comes to transportation in a foreign country is that you could certainly be stranded. Inefficient use of transportation comes at the cost of money and time; when you are abroad, these are two things you wouldn’t want to waste.
In my opinion, if there is a train system available in a city, it is the most effective way to find your ways around within a city. In Buenos Aires, it certainly helped us get around. I understand that not all city have expansive train systems but when available, it is always my choice of transportation. If you make use of the Subte in Buenos Aires (subway), you can’t really be lost. Have a Subte map handy wherever you go and the city is yours to explore. If you are lost, ask for the closest Subte station. If it’s too far, take a taxi to the nearest Subte Station. In a city like Buenos Aires, rush hour is literally insane. With 8-10 lane one way streets packed with cars that slug their ways through the city, you can literally crawl faster than taking a taxi or a bus. Subte, although it can get packed and sweaty, will get you to places reliably. With no accidents or traffic jams to worry about, it may be the quickest way home for you.
Subway systems are also much more “international friendly.” Whereas with taxis and buses, you will have to speak to drivers for help with directions, Subte maps and information booths often provide some English instructions. However, subways are not without flaws. You will have to walk more than taking a taxi and the more time you spend packed in with other people (both on the street and in the train cars), the more chance that you will fall victim of pick pocketing. Petty crime is common in large cities all around the world especially against obvious tourist. I, being that obvious tourist, have to take caution at all times wherever I go. Subte can be stressful in this way; however, it was nevertheless my choice of transpiration.
If you want to take advantage of any train system, you must take certain steps to make your travel most efficient. First, do some research. Find the network map and compare it with a street map side-by-side. Study the general geographical layout of the city in terms of NWSE. In a new city, it is most helpful to navigate with using a compass. Because you lack the knowledge of many landmarks in the city, it is difficult to navigate with just your spacial cognition. Second, recognize various main streets. Try to remember how highways and other large streets cross or parallel. Often, train stations are built along these main streets. Last but not least, check for various train passes. Passes or booklet of tickets also may be subject to student discounts.
Train systems in highly populated cities are often very efficient and expansive. It is most wise to make use of this network if you want to make most of the limited time and money that you are spending.
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