The Dublin bus, it’s always late, and it’s always cramped. Although for some of us, it’s also our only option. Whether you’re a Dublin Bus taking newbie or a seasoned professional like myself, these are the tricks and trades of Dublin Bus that everyone should know.
Always expect the unexpected.
When it comes to Dublin bus, be prepared for anything. There’s always one at least slightly bizarre human on the Dublin bus, and if there isn’t, then it’s probably you. Anyone who’s taken the bus has experienced some odd stuff.
Always thank the bus driver.
This one is self-explanatory for any Irish person, no self-respecting Irish person would ever get off a bus without thanking the bus driver. Ever.
Always move when a free seat becomes available.
This is a true double-edged sword. On the one hand, you feel offended when the stranger next to you gets up as soon as a free seat becomes available. However, this pales in comparison to the utter relief that washes over you as soon as they move away, always move.
No standing while upstairs.
If you’ve ever been on a packed Dublin bus chances are you’ve heard this before, no standing upstairs! Whether you’re the notorious stander or an onlooker, anyone who’s taken the bus has heard the bus driver shout this at some poor individual just trying to look for a seat.
Watch the headphone volume.
On every bus, there is always somebody who does not understand the concept of something, personal space, not opening the bus window when it’s freezing or volume control. Headphones are great but be considerate of the elderly woman sitting next to you before you start blasting a bizarre mix of heavy metal and the High-School-Musical soundtrack, please.
Have your fare ready (Get a leap card)
A leap card is the only way to make unreasonable bus prices affordable, they’re a necessity for any budgeting student. However, if you don’t feel like stepping into 2017, at least do everyone a favor and always have bus fare ready before stepping on the bus!
You will fall, a lot.
This one isn’t really a trick, it’s just something bound to happen if you take the bus. Usually when you’re on the stairs and everyone is watching, or surrounded by other passengers all getting thrown around like rag dolls as the bus stops.
Move your bag.
The only time it is acceptable to keep your bag on the seat next to you is when the bus is completely empty, enough said.
Expect the expected.
Expect plenty of strikes, aka the only time Dublin bus is ever reliable. Also, delays, and busses switching to ‘not in service’ at the last minute when they do finally arrive. Any Dublin bus regular, come to be surprised when the bus actually arrives on time. (And even then, it will probably stop randomly to swap drivers and leave you waiting for ages.)
Photo by Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash