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Getting on a bus
At a bus stop, check the number on the front of the bus. When your bus comes, you may need to wave your hand so the driver stops. In many places, you pay or show your ticket when you get on. Some buses take cards or phones, and some ask you to buy a ticket before. If you are not sure, ask the driver. Keep it short, because there may be a line behind you. When you want to get off, press the bell button before your stop.
Does this bus go to the town centre?
Can I pay by card, please?
Could you tell me when we get to this stop, please?
Using trains and stations
At a train station, look for the big screens. They usually show the time, the place the train is going and the platform. Platforms can change, so check again before you go. You often need a ticket before you get on the train. You can usually buy one at a machine, at a ticket office or in an app. Sometimes staff check tickets on the train. Keep your ticket with you until you leave the station, because you may need it at the gates.
Which platform does the train to this city leave from?
Is this the right train for this station?
Do I need to change trains anywhere?
Asking staff for help
Station staff, drivers and people at information desks are there to help. Staff often wear a uniform or a bright jacket. You can start with "Excuse me" to get their attention. Say where you want to go, and show it on your phone if speaking feels hard. If they speak too fast, it is fine to ask them to slow down or repeat. You can also ask them to write it down. People in the UK often say "please", "thank you" and "sorry" a lot, so these words help.
Excuse me, could you help me, please?
Sorry, could you say that again more slowly?
Could you show me on the map, please?
When something goes wrong
Sometimes trains are late or cancelled, or a bus does not come. This happens, and it is not your fault. Listen for announcements and check the screens. Staff can usually tell you another way to travel. If you miss your stop, get off at the next one and ask for help. If you lose something, ask staff about lost property. If you feel unsafe, move near other people or go to a member of staff. In an emergency, call the emergency number for help.
My train was cancelled. What should I do now?
I missed my stop. How do I get back?
I think I left my bag on the train. Who can I ask?
Being a polite passenger
People usually wait in a line at bus stops and let others get off before they get on. On escalators in some cities, people stand on one side and walk on the other. Many people offer their seat to older people, pregnant women or people with a disability. Try to keep your bag off the seats when it is busy. Talking on the phone quietly is fine. If you need to get past someone, a simple "Excuse me" or "Sorry" is enough. Small polite words make journeys easier for everyone.
Would you like to sit down?
Excuse me, this is my stop.
Sorry, is this seat free?
Common questions
What if I don't understand the announcements?
Announcements can be hard to hear, even for local people. Look at the screens and signs, or ask a passenger near you. You can say, "Sorry, what did they just say?" Most people will happily explain.
Is it okay to ask other passengers for help?
Yes, usually it is. Start with "Excuse me" and ask a short question. Some people may be busy, and that is okay. Just try someone else or ask a member of staff.
What if I bought the wrong ticket?
Mistakes happen. Talk to staff, explain calmly and show your ticket. You can say, "I think I bought the wrong ticket. Can you help me?" They can usually tell you what to do next.