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| Re: WMATA Observations (1345148) | |||
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Re: WMATA Observations |
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Posted by New Flyer #857 on Tue Mar 24 21:52:13 2015, in response to WMATA Observations, posted by italianstallion on Tue Mar 24 17:37:43 2015. In January when I was down there some of the interior signs did indeed show station names (but never with automated announcements, and sometimes not consistent). The station name would appear, but then the next one wouldn't, or it would revert to just the line color or whatever. Hopefully the 7000 series will be much better.I like the chimes and the classic "step back" announcement which you hear twice at each station (doors opening, and doors closing) seems to be a staple of the system. The chimes are so moody; my favorite is the pattern that you hear when the doors are being blocked and there is a special announcement regarding the need to clear the doors. I forget exactly how that one goes though since it isn't common. The people are indeed nicer. All WMATA personnel and other people seem to be much more patient and polite than in NY. As others say, the zone fare system is good but for a NYer it can look complicated at first. Just keep a high balance on the card and look at the indications every time you use it. When it's getting low (lower than the maximum fare let's say) just replenish. It doesn't expire. It's very easy to use (SmarTrip) since you just tap rather than swipe or dip. And if you're really worried about getting "locked in," carry some extra cash with you. If fare payment is a high concern, try to use buses in Washington since they're cheaper, and you can't be prevented from exiting. In NY, I'm done worrying about the math, especially with the $2.75 fare. I have two MetroCards (the second is in case the first one malfunctions) and I keep near-equal amounts on them. When I notice they are getting low ($10 to $12 on either or both) I take a $20 or preferably a $50 from my pocket and replenish, getting the bonus, and then waiting a while until they get low again. I don't use the system enough to justify an unlimited and I feel at home with the system, and being able to get on a bus even in Nassau or Westchester without worrying if I'm "ready" to pay. SmarTrip is also good because I plan on visiting Baltimore and the surrounding areas soon and I have my balance from my Washington trip all ready to go. |
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