On Saturday night six WIPpers (including me) got a ricksaw bicycle to the nearest Metro which ensured we made the last metro train and saved a fortune on taxis (which we actually then spent on tipping the bike driver). Anyway, this made me realize the pivotal role transport has played a huge part in our lives over the last seven and a half weeks. Here is my unofficial guide to the delights of getting around DC.
The Metro: The hectic WIP schedule has introduced me to the joys of the red, blue, orange, green, yellow and other line. I have something of a love-hate relationship with the Metro. I love that it is air conditioned and (sometimes) takes me where I want to go with minimal fuss. I hate that it chooses to stop randomly when I'm aiming to get the last bus home. It also alarms me that I've turned into one of those aggressive people who sighs loudly any time anyone tries to cramp onto the train because I know chances are that we're all have to get off because of overcrowding. I've also become obsessed with getting a seat. So all in all the Metro may be bringing out the worst in me. Also: I once read that in Paris that their Metro manages to spark romance. I can categorically say that the chances of that happening in Washington are pretty slim because everybody treats each other like they're a potential maniac... says I the seat-obsessed sigher.
Taxis: In general Washington taxi drivers do not know the area's street names so you have to know exactly where you're going. I've never seen this before and I hope I never do again. It is not a particularly fun quirk. Although it has resulted in Judi and I knowing the way to our host home from every direction imaginable.
Buses: I'm not going to into my daily commute on the L7, L8 and 1 because it's just not that interesting. I will mention however the time we got a real life American yellow school bus to Hemlock which we were thrilled about. Then on the way back Alan Ralph serenaded us with every song he's ever heard except Aqua's Barbie Girl. Good times.
Walking: From what I have seen over the last 7 weeks walking in DC is a past time and not a legitimate way of getting about. In some residential areas there are no pavements and what pavements there are can be poorly maintained. Weird.
Boats: When we got our New York schedule we were promised a sightseeing boat trip around the islands. Instead we got The Beast. Have you ever wanted to feel like you've been taken hostage and have freezing cold water poured over you? Then this is the ride for you. The pictures of it are well worth hunting out if you know any WIPPers.
Limousines: If the Beast was a transport low for me then the night before was a transport high as Ian and John managed to blag us a limousine for 8 dollars person (2 dollars less than our bike the other night). Singing Karma Police at the top of our lungs while driving through NY is definitely one of the highlights of my whole trip.
Planes: In just 5 days we make the grueling trip home to Dublin Airport via Toronto. Bets are now on to see how long Andy will be detained in customs...
