Be it that you’re looking to go to your hometown during vacation, or the daily commute, public transportation is something that most of us have had to deal with here in Bangladesh. Some trips can go without a hitch, and you can come out of it unscathed. However, for the most of us, bus rides can be daunting. Here’s what you should avoid.
1. The crazy bag lady
It’s not necessarily always a woman but there’s always a person who seems to be carrying their entire wardrobe with them. And while there are designated seats for each person, they will violate your personal space, and keep a gazillion of their bags practically on top of you, making you feel like you might as well be in a straightjacket.
2. The first timer
Fresh faced, full of hopes, never-been-on-a-bus-before simpleton. You can immediately pick them out from the crowd because they look like they’re on a rollercoaster. While you sympathize, 10 minutes into the journey, the sympathy goes out the window, along with the contents of their stomach.
3. Willy Wonka
Halfway through the journey, he comes on board. Like a knight in shining armour carrying an assortment of candy, chocolates and chips on a tray- expertly maneuvering his way through, reading your mind. Being the consumerist you are, it might be tempting to buy something from him, but be warned, the goods might not be the best idea.
4. The Hot seat
That front seat on top of the engine may look inviting due to its close vicinity to the door. But unless your pants are made out of ice, we would strongly suggest not to sit there as it can heat up and keep you more than toasty warm.
5. Put your left leg out, then put your right leg out..
While this sounds a lot like the nursery rhyme, Hokey Pokey, this is one of the fundamentals of surviving the bus ride intact. Always get down by putting your left leg out first, and then steady yourself with the right. With the majority of commute buses not bothering to come to a halt when the passengers are getting down, this’ll save you a trip(ping).
6. The sleeping beauty
Look, the world is a tiring place, and sleep is a beautiful thing. Catching up on some zzz’s while on your way somewhere is completely fine. But some people like to get really comfortable while sleeping on the bus. And the last thing you’d want (we’re assuming) is for some stranger to be cuddling you while snoring, for good measure. Avoid the sleepy ones, and vocalize your discomfort if the person mistakes you for a kolbalish.
