how to ditch your car for good: part 3 - tips
July 3, 2007 by Cash
how to ditch your car for good: part 3 - tips
In the final installment of this series, we’ll look at tips for making the transition to a car free life as easy as possible.
Over the past 7 months, I’ve been car free. Along the way, I’ve definitely learned some lessons.
COMFORT
- Always keep a hat, sunglasses and an umbrella with you. (Nod Brian for the hint). In Colorado, the weather can turn on a dime. No matter where you are though, wind and rain can make for unpleasent walking conditions to and from the bus/light rail stop. Be prepared.
- Be selective with conversation. I have yet to make a ‘friend’ on the bus. Typically there are two types of characters onboard; those wearing headphones and the crazies they’re trying to avoid talking to. The light rail is marginally better, as it seems to feature a lot more ‘commuters’ of the professional variety. Still, choose your conversations carefully, or you could be in for a long, long ride. Bring your mp3 player. Use it.
- Sit near an exit. There is nothing worse than barely squeezing past a dozen stinky hobos trying to make your way to the door at your stop.
- Be mindful of the sun. On my light rail ride to and from work, I quickly learned which side of the train was gonna be simmering in the heat. Don’t sit on that side.
OTHER STUFF
- Many states offer discounts on passes to military, students, and senior citizens. If you fall into any of those categories, be sure to ask for the reduced fare.
- Get a heavy duty duffle bag with a good shoulder strap. This is the perfect tool for grocery and liquor shopping. Some places (such as Wild Oats here in Denver) offer minor discounts (or donations to charity) for using your own bag.
- Be careful when you’re drunk. Yes, taking public transportation is ideal when you’re drinking. Falling asleep however, missing your stop, and having to get off and wait for a train back from the wrong side of town at midnight isn’t fun. Not that it’s ever happened to me. Twice. I suggest setting an alarm on your cell phone for 5 or 10 minutes before your stop if you think you might drift off.
How about you readers? Other tips? Comment away, and I’ll see you on the train.
Technorati Tags: buses, light rail, commuting, commute, environmentalism, green living
I know someone with a Kitchen Aide Mixer… It’s real nice.
Always keep something to keep you entertained is another key factor. Taking a 30 minute public transportation ride isn’t as bad when you have something to read / listen to /etc.
Many states/cities also have commuter passes (for use on commuter buses, which are old tourist buses that the city can buy, plus the trains in the area) for reduced prices.
I second the mp3 player. If you don’t get motion sickness, books are good, but be careful on long trips as you can stress your eyes (and increase your chances of developing near-sightedness, according to the Bates Method). When possible, go with friends or co-workers. There’s strength in numbers and you’ll get to know the person better (thereby saving time trying to get to know co-workers and classmates over coffee…)
Use good judgment when talking to people. Don’t give out personal information to strangers (last name, destination, where you work), don’t get too “into” the conversation (or you risk them being interested in you and following you home…), etc.
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