Weird Subway Encounters and Curious Subway Etiquette

Subway rides are usually a mundane commute, but some encounters can leave you questioning the human experience. Here are a few strange scenarios I've witnessed on the subway, both in the United States and abroad, as well as some tips for better subway etiquette.

Unusual Subway Encounters in the U.S.

Back in high school, I worked at a small pizza joint that closed late at night, which sometimes brought me into contact with late-night subway riders. One memorable encounter involved a peculiar customer. At one subway sandwich shop, a young man behind the counter was quite taken with a beautiful woman in spandex, a light T-shirt, and a baseball cap. She ordered her sandwich but then realized it was without meat, which caught the sandwich artist's attention. That must have been a surreal experience for him, to be both attentive to her and disappointed with his lack of meat!

I recall another time when two high school friends worked at Subway places that closed at 3 AM and 12 AM, respectively. During our senior year, we would sneak out late-night parties at the Subway. We'd gather in the regular dining area, consume pizza, beer, and sometimes play cards. Miraculously, no one ever reported us, despite our rowdy behavior. On one occasion, a man's fart caused quite a stir, leading to a misunderstanding and even a threat of violence from a man who overheard the laugh track. In another instance, the sandwich maker licked his bread while a customer was observing, providing a humorous interlude in our usual Friday night antics.

Subway Etiquette Around the World

While the United States can see its fair share of unusual subway experiences, cities like Mexico City offer a whole different level of street culture. The Metro in Mexico City is a vast, bustling system teeming with life. Vendors travel from station to station selling various goods, and some musicians use old-fashioned boom boxes to play banda music, relying on tips from passersby.

However, the strangest encounter I remember was in 2015, when a drug addict in the Metro was entertaining passersby by eating glass, which was his method of drug money. This is a stark and disturbing reminder of the darker side of urban life and the struggles faced by some individuals.

Improving Subway Etiquette and Enjoying Your Commute

To maintain a pleasant and harmonious atmosphere on the subway, several guidelines can be helpful:

Be Mindful of Personal Space: Respect the space of others and use silence when necessary, especially during off-peak hours or on slower trains. Stay Clean: Dispose of your trash properly and don't litter. Keep personal items tidy to avoid blocking passages or disturbing fellow commuters. Stay Informed About Local Customs: It's always a good idea to learn about the local customs and taboos in the city you're visiting. This can prevent unwanted attention or misunderstanding. Report Suspicious Activity: If you observe any behavior that seems suspicious or inappropriate, alert the authorities or announce on the train's intercom system to ensure everyone's safety.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of your surroundings, you can make your subway commutes a more enjoyable and stress-free experience, whether you're in Mexico City, New York, or anywhere else.

Conclusion

Subway encounters can range from the mundane to the unusual and sometimes even the strange. By being aware of local customs and practicing good subway etiquette, you can ensure a smoother and safer ride for everyone. Whether you're ordering a sandwich, watching vendors at work, or facing unique subway challenges, remember to stay respectful and considerate to maintain the spirit of the city's public transportation system.