by Jed Eane

Created on: April 28, 2008

The London Underground (colloquially known as the tube) is a vast underground, and in some sections over-ground, network of train services. Each train service (line) has a name and color code (i.e. the Piccadilly service is dark blue). Most services have inter-connecting stops where you can change and board trains operating on a different service.

The tube is over 100 years old - and in some places this shows! There's no air conditioning on the tube, something which can make traveling on the tube particularly uncomfortable when the temperature rises. When traveling in the summer, it's always advisable to travel with water to keep yourself hydrated.

The tube can get very busy at times, especially during rush hour and when there's any big event taking place in London (e.g. London Marathon). If you're traveling on the tube during a busy period, always move as far down into the train carriage as you can; there's nothing more frustrating when traveling on the tube than not being able to board a train because there's no space at the doors while you can see plenty of room in the middle of the carriage! Always allow passengers off the train before boarding. This may sound like common sense, but there's usually at least one person who tries to get on a train before passengers have disembarked. This not only compromises everyone's safety, but very easily upsets tube travelers (and rightly so!).

When traveling on the tube, it's imperative that you have a copy of the tube map. The map shows all services, inter-connecting stations, and important information such as the opening and closing times of those tube stations that operate restricted hours. You can pick up a free copy of the map at most tube stations.

Public transport in London isn't cheap - and the tube's no exception. The cheapest tube ticket you can buy is about 4 GBP ($8); so even if you want to travel just one stop this is what you'll have to pay. There are, however, good deals to be had on tickets covering travel for a day to travel for seven days. It always pays to carry out research to find out what's the cheapest way to travel on the tube. London Underground's website at tfl.gov.uk is an excellent resource and as well as information about ticket prices, it can also help you plan your tube journey, giving precise details of how long your journey will take.

While the tube is a quick, easy to use, and convenient way to get around the city, never overlook walking. If you have to travel only a few stops, try doing it on foot. It's easily the best way to see the city.

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