9 UNWRITTEN rules of behavior in the Moscow Metro (PHOTOS)
So, you've descended into the capital's luxurious subway system. How can you avoid ruining the ride for yourself and others? We've compiled the unwritten laws that will come in handy.
1. Don't block the passageways
Where am I? Where am I going and why? It seems that these are exactly the kind of philosophical and geographical questions people ask themselves when they freeze in a stupor in front of an escalator or in the middle of a station. Not sure where to go? Or do you know, but changed your mind? Try to figure it out somewhere to the side and out of the way, where you won't inconvenience other passengers.
2. Stand on the right, walk on the left
It seems like everyone in Moscow is constantly rushing somewhere, even when going up the escalator. So, the rules of overtaking in the escalator are already imprinted in the DNA of Muscovites. If you stand on the left side of the escalator, you're holding up everyone in a hurry. Be prepared to hear heavy breathing behind you and annoyed requests to make way.
That said, during rush hour and particularly crowded times, you may hear announcements asking people to stand on both sides of the escalator on the way up – and that's the right thing to do!
3. Let passengers exit the car before you board
Turns out, if you let people out of the train car first, you'll have a better chance of finding a vacant seat. Plus, no one will get in your way as you board.
4. Take off your backpack while on the train
Your backpack is literally a nuisance to everyone around you. Plus, if you’re carrying it on your back, it's effectively taking up another person's space. Take it off and you'll immediately feel how much more spacious it suddenly becomes.
5. Use headphones
Do you have great taste in music or are you watching an interesting movie on your commute? That's great, but don't share it with your fellow passengers against their will. Try to enjoy your audio content with headphones only.
6. Don't eat on the train
Sure, your mom's cabbage pies are delicious, but not during rush hour in a packed train car. Just imagine: dozens of hungry eyes and dozens more angry eyes will be staring at you!
7. Don't try to ride the subway for free
Moscow has high turnstiles, so you won't be able to jump over them. But, there are cases when people try to slip through right behind a passenger who has tapped their ticket against the turnstile. Don't do it. The turnstile won't take pity on you if you’re slow and neither will the inspectors. The current fine on the spot for fare evasion is 5,000 rubles (approx. US$65).
8. Don't douse yourself in strong fragrances before your trip
During rush hour, when lots of people are commuting to work or heading home, a strong smell or scent is just annoying. Especially in the summer, when it’s hot. A subtle fragrance is appealing and intriguing, but a concentrated one will make your neighbors' eyes water!
9. Don't zone out on your smartphone
Especially when you're walking up or down stairs (there are plenty of them in between escalator rides) and through the halls and concourses. It's dangerous for both you and your phone, not to mention that it creates inconvenience for those around you. First, get into a stable position on the escalator or in the train car – and then enjoy your content!
