Navigating Cities

By Ashley Paskill on November 19, 2017

Those who go to school in a big city have so many opportunities at their feet. However, for students who grew up in a small town, it can be difficult to get used to the city atmosphere. Navigating a city is simple once you get used to how everything works.

Be safe.

Walk like you are on a mission. If you look lost, you are more likely to be robbed or attacked. Look up directions if you need to. If you want to ask for directions, ask someone in a store. Find a landmark, whether its a street or a building and know your relation to it. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts if something does not feel right. If you have to walk at night, buddy up or get a security escort. If this is not plausible, take a taxi to your destination so that you are not exposed to the dangers of the city at night.

Learn public transportation

While taxis can be useful for short distances that may not be serviceable by public transportation, they can be expensive. Most major cities have buses, trains, and subways. If you frequent the city often or take public transportation regularly, most transportation companies offer discounted tickets depending on how frequently you utilize the service. There may be other forms of transportation as well that are not part of the public transportation system that may be cheaper or offer discounts for public transit pass holders.

Go with someone who is familiar with the city until you are comfortable traveling alone.

Going to a city with someone familiar with it can be a huge help. They can point out facts about certain things and show you cool places to check out. Also, they are less likely to get lost, so you are free to explore without fear of getting lost. They know how to navigate various aspects of the city and can show you non-tourist things to do and check out. Going with someone familiar with the city also gives you an opportunity to build a relationship with someone you go to school with and learn about what is important to them.

 Be careful with your belongings.

Do not be too flashy with your belongings or else you might get robbed. Double check every so often to make sure you have everything, especially when leaving a place or getting off public transportation. Keep your valuables secure, or avoid carrying them if at all possible. Traveling in a group puts you less at risk of someone taking your things. Ladies, carry a purse that can go over your head and across your body. Also, carry bags that zipper completely to keep your belongings extra secure.

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