Public transportation in Singapore is safe, clean, efficient, and cheap. The great convenience of using public transportation is underscored by the use of just one prepaid transportation card, the EZ-link, for Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), and bus transportation. One can simply purchase an EZ-link card from any MRT station or large bus terminal, tap the card at entry and exit gantries for deducted payment, and top up value at automated machines in MRT stations and large bus exchange terminals. One can also buy one-time bus and MRT tickets as needed.
General etiquette requires that one allow passengers to alight before boarding any train or bus. Also, special seats for the elderly, handicapped, and expectant mothers are reserved by signs placed above differently colored seats. Naturally, it is expected that a healthy, able-bodied person give up his or her seat to the elderly or infirm regardless of the seat designation; however, this does not always happen. After a few rides on the MRT, you will start to pick up on the widespread ‘pretend sleeping’ tactic to keep one’s seat.
