Jobs in the DC Area
Every morning, DC area residents complain about the
clueless and sometimes downright rude behavior they encounter in public
transportation. They may be talking about you. But if you follow a few
basic rules, getting around can be a much more enjoyable experience.
1) Stand right. Walk left. This applies to escalators
especially. They are just like roads. The slow lane is on the right and the
passing lane is on the left. Just because you have the time to stand
around, doesn't mean that everyone else does.
(part b) If you do choose to walk, keep walking. I assure you that the
escalator will not bite your feet when you reach the end.
2) People out. People in. When getting on a metro train or bus,
or coming into any doorway, stand at the side and let the people out who
are trying to get out. They will afford you the same courtesy when you are
trying to get out. But be forewarned, when it's your turn to get out, you
had better be ready. You have about 20 seconds to get out, or you'll have
to wait for the flood on people coming in to cease.
3) Get out of the way. Wherever people are trying to move or
fit, don't stand there like your feet are planted in cement. The prime
locations for this inappropriate behavior are at the bottom/top of
escalators, in doorways, and in hallways. If you need a moment to get your
bearings, please move to the side, somewhere out of the way. Don't be
afraid you'll get lost if you get out of the way. You can always go back!
(part b)If you are in a group, don't take up the whole walkway, walking 4
abreast. If you want to recreate the opening titles of The Monkees, do it
elsewhere.
4) Move to the center of the train/bus It's going to get
crowded, so we need all the room available. Don't linger near the doors.
You will have plenty of time to get out at your stop - as long as the
doorway isn't cluttered with people like you.
5) One seat per person This is not your living room, nor are
the seats your sofa. So keep your bags, feet, and other things off the
other seats. Even if they aren't needed, it's just plain rude. Guys, sit
together. No one is going to think you're gay if you sit next to eachother.
Even if they did I don't see what your problem is.
6) Don't mate with the poles You know who you are - the ones
who choose to lean against the poles, or embrace them so you can hold your
paper with both hands. I hate to disappoint you, but no one wants to touch
your crotch or your butt in order to get a secure hand-hold. Please brace
yourself with one hand. If you want to hang on poles all day, become a
stripper.
7) Have your farecard ready This means as soon as you get off
the train. Moms, you may think it's clever to collect and distribute
your childrens' farecards everytime you enter and exit a station, but it's
really just a big pain for everyone. Consider getting them ID holder
necklaces in which to place their cards.
8) Act with decorum This covers about everything else. Don't
swing from the bars as if you were in a jungle gym. Don't scream from
across the station or the car. The usual eating drinking and smoking are
prohibited. It was explained to me by a Metro police officer once however,
that you may carry food and drink, but not consume it. And yes, we
know a) it's cleaner than New York b) the lights flash when a train is
coming and c) how many more stops it is to wherever - no need to count down
at every station... 3 more stops, 2 more stops, ok, next one.
BWI Airport: Usually airfares to and from here are MUCH cheaper than at National. You can take the train there for about $12. See the MARC and Amtrak links above.
Another tip: Gay central is Dupont, Q St. and 17th being the main drags *snicker again.* Alternately, Capitol Hill near Eastern Market, along Penn between 6th and 8th SE, and down 8th there are plenty of cool spots, and somewhat more wimminly. Rise up against the tyranny of Starbucks! While you're there visit the locally/black women-owned/independent coffee joint Roasters on the Hill
