Andy B wrote:There are numerous rules on the underground...for which the penalty is death or a REALLY harsh glare from everyone...they include
Talking except possibly to someone you've known for at least 5 years
Not standing on the right of the escalator
Standing still anywhere when not on a train]
Carrying luggage - inlcuding pushchairs and babys
Giving a running commentary on how many more stops you have to go (mainly kids)
Constantly looking at the map
While on the train - looking at other people...ever.
Getting to the ticket barrier and THEN trying to find your ticket or if your tickets doesn't work!
Say "move down I'm trying to get on"
However it is perfectly acceptable to do the following
Ignore all buskers even if you think they're good
Apply full make up (mainly women)
Squeeze into the last possible gap even if means everyone is now nose to armpit!
Steal someone's paper the second they indicate that they are leaving and not taking it!
Speaking as someone who works for London Underground, all of the above is correct. When entering the underground system leave your compassion for fellow humans outside! People are more concerned if a dog has wondered onto the track than an injured person. The usual response to a 'one under' (suicide) is 'when will the service be back to normal?'!
The travelling public do have my sympathy though. I thankfully never have to travel during peak times, and to be quite honest I don't know how people do it. Because they have no choice would be the sensible answer I suppose!
A few more 'rules' people abide by:
Never give up your seat. Look at the floor/paper if somebody needs your seat more than you.
Always check the seat before sitting down.......could be all sorts on it.
Ignore the fact you're meant to let people off the train first before getting on.
Everyone hates people who think their bags need a seat.
If you're a bloke sit with your legs spread a bit, to gain a bit more space.
Tube snogging is acceptable when you're drunk late at night, but just wrong first thing in the morning.
Carry on reading the paper if a nutter/beggar tries to speak to you.
If you're ticket doesn't work 1st time don't keep trying it.
Regular commuters know where to stand on the platform to be in front of the opening doors.
chrismoyles.net
