How to Not Break the Bank on the Big Apple Bus
So, you wanna ride the iconic yellow bus in NYC, huh? Good for you! You’re about to embark on a thrilling adventure of dodging potholes, listening to questionable music choices, and possibly making some new, interesting friends. But before you hop on, let's talk about the most pressing question: how the heck do you pay for this ride?
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| How Can I Pay For The Bus In Nyc |
The Good Old Days (or Not So Much)
Remember when you could just toss a handful of coins into a magical box and poof, you were on your way? Well, those days are mostly gone. Unless you’re carrying around a pocket full of quarters, dimes, and nickels (and let's be real, who does that?), you'll need a more modern approach.
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
Enter OMNY: The Future of Fare Payment
If you're a tech-savvy individual, then OMNY is your new best friend. It's basically a fancy word for tapping your card or phone. No more fumbling for coins, no more worrying about exact change. Just tap and go! You can use a contactless credit or debit card, a smartphone with a digital wallet, or even a wearable device like a smartwatch. It's like magic, but without the wand.
Tip: Reading twice doubles clarity.
MetroCard: The OG
For those who prefer a more traditional method, the MetroCard is still an option. You can buy it at subway stations and refill it with money. Just remember, it's a bit more hassle than OMNY, and you can't use it on every bus. Plus, there's always the risk of accidentally swiping it backwards and getting stuck in the machine. Trust me, it's happened.
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Off-Board Payment: The Sidewalk Struggle
If you're riding a Select Bus Service (SBS) route, you have another option: off-board payment. There are machines on the sidewalk where you can buy a paper ticket before boarding. It's like a real-life ticket stub, but for a bus. Just make sure to hang onto it, because you might need to show it to the bus driver or a fare inspector.
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
Important Note: Express buses have a higher fare than local buses. So, make sure you have enough money, whether you're using OMNY, MetroCard, or cash.
How to...
- How to use OMNY: Simply tap your card or phone on the reader as you board the bus.
- How to use a MetroCard: Swipe your MetroCard through the farebox.
- How to pay with cash: Have exact change ready and insert it into the farebox.
- How to avoid a fare evasion ticket: Always pay your fare and keep your receipt if applicable.
- How to enjoy your bus ride: Relax, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers.
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