Subways Archives - Passport Overused

If you been following us for a while, you should know that I’m a subway geek/nerd. Being in London, do you really think I wouldn’t want to see where subways originally started. Of course, I’m going to geek out while taking the London tube. I probably looked very off to locals. Imagine seeing an overly excited person trying so hard to not look like a tourist but clearly is super excited like one.

The entrance to the underground photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Entering into the subway, you notice the difference. The subway carts were a lot smaller compared to the USA. I truly felt like a sardine in a can. It was small but somehow there was enough space to fit a lot of people. I understand why my British and European friends always say that everything is a lot bigger in the USA. I felt claustrophobic. That saying something because I live in NYC and enjoy taking subway rides. I can see where the stereotype of Americans being fat comes from. We like fast food and space. Truthfully, London’s tube is actually the smallest I have seen on my trips. Not sure if it is because countries now started to model their subway systems like the ones in New York and Washington D.C or the world likes their space as well.

Waiting for the train photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

One thing that really stood out to me was not seeing panhandlers and street performers on the tube/ underground. I tend to take that for granted while in New York and San Francisco. I mention SF and NYC because those are probably the two weirdest cities with the most activity on the subways in the USA. London’s underground almost felt like it lacked character. I know that probably sounded like something a hipster would say but it is true. Most places around the world don’t have handlers and street performers on the train carts. However, I was somewhat expecting this in London. Regardless, it was still a very surreal moment to be in London’s underground. I have seen it in movies and video games. However, seeing it in person is another experience.

A picture telling the history of London’s tube photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The history of the underground is very interesting to fellow subway geeks like me. It started in 1863, the trains were run by steam. It reminded me of one of those old Disney cartoons where mickey mouse was on a steam train. The trains moved to electrified railways in 1890. New York City’s subway was modeled after London’s. It’s awesome to be able to see where the underground subways started. I can see why a lot of people really enjoy London.

Stay safe everyone and remember to wash your hands!

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With this city’s over the top strive to be the best. There is a lot of differences compared to Western public transportation. I could not roll my eyes even more after finding out they have the only five star subway station. Although, Dubai’s metro system seem to be the world’s best. There are rules one must follow, if you want a smooth time.

A subway station photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

For starters, you don’t see people asking for money. That is something this country really tries hard not to have. The government pays the homeless to go back to their country. As harsh as that sounds, it’s better than just leaving them out to die in the rough desert environment. Especially, when summer comes around with the sand storms.

The top level of the “five star subway station” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Another tip is to not eat in subway carts. Yes, that is illegal and could cause you a fine. Of course, I saw the sign while I was eating donuts. Luckily for me, there wasn’t any cops nearby. The fine is about 100 AED, which is about 30 us dollars.

The second Level of the “five star subway station” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Dubai’s metro is very clean. There is no litter on the subway carts. Dropping or forgetting something on a subway cart could lead you to a 200 AED fee. Which is about 70 USD. Keep that in mind because the more fines you get, the more unwated attention you attract to yourself. Which is never good in a foreign country. Also, Sleeping in waiting areas can result to fines as well. Same amount as of 200 AED. I wish they had these rules in New York City.

The five start trophy photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Another rule is carrying alcohol while on a public vehicle can result in charges or fees, if you are found out. If you are carrying beers or wine bottles in your bag, please make sure they do not make much noise. Remember this is a Muslim majority country after all. Being found with alcohol in non-approved areas can lead into some serious trouble. It all depends which type of cop you run into. I heard stories online of people being found with alcohol and being sent to jail. Which caused them to lose their flight.

The stations mark where the women’s section will be photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Lastly there is a woman’s section on the subway trains. They are usually a lot nicer and less crowded. From what I saw, there are usually empty seats. Only women are allowed to go with the exception of little kids. Of course, Me being me. I ended up walking into and taking a seat in this section. Took me a minute to find out why it was so empty. Saw a lot of pink on the floor and the word women was written everywhere. Luckily, there was no police around. So, I did not get in trouble.

Hey everyone! This post is not to scare you. It’s just to keep you aware. I do suggest reading Dubai metro rules. Here is the link to keep you informed. Dubai is awesome and there is no reason as to why some culture differences should ruin your time here.

Safe travels everyone and much love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!

Here are links to hotels and other deals.

For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!