Subway Rules, New York City

There seems to be a universal rule regarding the escalators in the underground, as I noticed this in Paris and in London. Keep to the right if you plan to stay stationary while riding and to allow others to pass you on the left. Blocking people on the left-hand side is extremely rude and only serves to block the traffic exiting from the subway.

Growing up in Boston, one of my favorite things was the constant entertainment on the subway. NYC has the same thing, only 24 hours a day. Some are very good, some are horrible. You may have a guitarist, a flute player, spoken word, or someone preaching.
If you like them, feel free to drop a dollar in their jar.

When using the subway system, keep in mind that you will have ample time to get on and off a train. There is no need to stand directly in front of the doors, blocking everyone from getting on and off. Before stepping onto a train, allow passengers to get off first. This will make things much easier for everyone involved. Don't worry -- the conductors are watching and know when people are still trying to get on and off. Also, please don't hug the poles in the cars -- they're meant for several people to grab onto when the train is moving. Step as far into the car as possible to allow others on. There will be plenty of time for you to exit when your stop arrives. If you've got lots of bags or a big backpack, try to take up as little space as possible. In fact, it recently became a violation for anyone to put their feet up on the seats or to place bags onto seats next to them. Finally, if the train is so crowded that you can't get on unless you push and shove your way, just wait for the next train. The subways all run only a few minutes apart from each other. The train following the one that is overpacked is sure to have more room on it.

New Yorkers move at a quick speed and you will recogonize this instantly! I couldnt get over at which the city moves and it is like a doggy eat dog world at intersections and red lights. New Yorkers love visitors but they have no time for tourists stopping in the middle of the sidewalk to take a photo so do everyone a favor and move to the side near the sidewalk to take the shot but watch out for taxi cabs! I initially thought to myself that there was no way in the world I would ever keep up that pace or begin walking like New Yorkers but sure enough after a solid 3 days on the street I felt like I was swept away in the current and so began my New York 50mph walking skills, I am sure you will have a blast ;) Just bring great shoes!

The New York subway is easy enough during the week and outside of rush hour but it still takes a bit of skill to navigate relatively smoothly around the city. New Yorkers again have absolutely no time for slow tourists getting on and off the subway so make sure you stand near the platform when the train is about to arrive otherwise you will probably get bumped out by New Yorkers on their way to work or home. Most New Yorkers travel everyday meaning it takes them a bit of time to reach their destination which means for travellers give them the space they need in order to get around. Dont block exits and get on and off the train as quick as possible. Know your route stop ahead of time to avoid confusion because once the train stops at a station you are on your own, you have about 10 seconds to decide if you want to get off or stay on so be prepared ;) Overall, it took some getting used to but was good fun.

When you are traveling on the New York City Subway drop your backpack off your shoulders and hold between your legs. Everytime you turn even a little bit you will knock over a fellow passenger behind you. Its one of the more irritating things that visitors to New York City are unaware of. Also don't hang out by the doors, move into the car toward the center so people can get in and out easily.

For some great photos of the subway check out Peter Peter's (yes that is his name) book, The Subway Pictures.