March 25, 2010
I had to get my Social Security number yesterday and Tim was at work, so I had to go to Gatlin on my own. The day before that, Tim had to force me to take the bus and I wasn't so excited about the trip. We checked out the nearest bus stop in our place the night before, so that I would know where to wait.
The dreaded day came and I was supposed to leave the house before 9am, but I ended up leaving at 10:30am. I was too nervous and I wasn't looking forward to it, so I went online first and did a little research. I printed the bus schedule and checked the landmarks near the place I was headed. I even checked the bus stops near my place 'coz I was worried I might miss my stop. I also checked youtube for bus ride tips. I'm glad I checked it 'coz I had an idea on what to do. Instead of taking 2 bus rides yesterday, I only took one 'coz it was a lovely day outside and I just walked that .6 mile supposed 1st bus ride instead. It was weird walking along the sidewalk, since people here drive their own cars and they don't really walk .6 miles everyday. I had weird stares from drivers, but I had fun walking along the road.
To those who are new in this country, just like me and who wants to know how to ride the bus, here are the things I have done during my trip:
1. Checked the site of the bus line and checked if they have a trip planner. The bus line's trip planner was under construction, so I called a representative instead.
2. Tell the representative where you will be taking the bus from and where your destination is. He/she will then give you the bus number. Make sure to take note of the numbers.
3. I checked the bus schedule and checked the bus numbers given to me so I would know what time I should be at the bus stop. Be at the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the bus gets to the stop, so you won't miss it.
4. Wait for the bus, make sure to board the bus with the number you are supposed to be taking. Otherwise, you will get lost.
5. I didn't get a bus pass, I used dollar bills instead. I paid $2 for a one way trip - insert it in the little machine for the dollar bills. If you don't know how, ask the driver how to do it. They are usually friendly, so you can always ask them for assistance. Ask a free bus transfer pass if you need to board another bus for your trip. I only asked for the transfer pass on my way back, because I walked going to the bus stop during my first trip.
6. Know where your stop is and pull the string near the windows to let the driver know that you are getting off on the next bus stop.
7. Congratulate yourself for surviving your thrilling ride. :)
The only concern I had was missing the bus stop 'coz sometimes they have the tiny signs which you really can't see from afar. It's not like in the Philippines where buses stop anywhere. They have bus stops here and that is the only place you can stop. I am thankful that I never missed the stop yesterday. I got home with a smile on my face because I have conquered my fear in riding the bus. It was a successful mission! Until the next bus ride!
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