Submitted by Michaela Matteo on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in London, England sponsored by the Department of Communication…
During my second week in London, I realized how differently they use public transportation as compared to America. Most of London has actually taxed the use of personal cars within the city, making the buses and the Tube (train) the most useful forms of transportation here. When I learned that, I was extremely nervous because I am used to the transportation in Philadelphia, which is hectic to say the least. There are always large masses of people, missed trains, and constant confusion. However, London has perfected their transportation. Within each underground station, there are clear signs and arrows almost everywhere that help get anyone wherever they need to be. If there is the chance that one must switch trains, they even provide signs with clear directions INSIDE the Tube to explain where each stop is and what line connects each. For someone like myself, who has never been good with directions, I have become so much more confident in navigating my way around the city. There is never any struggle getting around and the trains run almost every two minutes, so it’s hard to be late. I have finally succeeded in not needing to use my phone to get to every destination here in London.