How to use public transit in a foreign country

Public transit is the heartbeat of a city. Do not be intimidated by the maps. Download the local transit app and always have a bit of local currency.

1. Get the Local Card. Buy a reloadable transit card like Oyster in London or Suica in Tokyo immediately at the airport.
2. Validate Your Ticket. In many European cities, you must stamp your ticket in a machine before boarding or you will face a heavy fine.
3. Watch the Locals. Observe how people board, pay, and signal for stops. Every city has its own unspoken etiquette.

What app should I download?

Citymapper works in most major cities. Google Maps transit directions are a solid backup.

Do I need exact change for buses?

In many cities, yes. Always carry coins or get a rechargeable transit card.