Hola. Hope you are well.
The train I get to work has been upgraded to a new modern one. Like a lot of things that get modernised, it’s caused me issues.
The older trains had 3 seats side by side and another 3 seats side by side facing, with a nice sized gap in between for leg room and bags. Because I generally get off the train before most of the other passengers I would sit on the seat nearest the aisle, regardless if the other 2 seats next to me were empty or not. This allowed me to get off without disturbing anyone.
With these new trains the seating is the more basic 2 seats next to each other and as I start my journey early in the route, when I get on there are invariably 2 free seats next to each other available. With the new layout, it looks weird to sit on the aisle seat, leaving the window seat free, so initially I’d sit on the window seat. Either the next stop or the stop after someone would come and sit next to me, only for me two stops later to get off, inconveniencing them just as they’ve settled.
My next ploy was to sit on the aisle seat, keeping the window seat free but this just meant I’d be on edge waiting for someone to come and want to sit next to me and then I’d have to turn me body round to let them in.
The best scenario is when someone is already in the window seat and I’m able to sit in the aisle seat, knowing I won’t have to disturb anyone, nor get disturbed. This however only works if the carriage is relatively full because to sit next to someone when there are free seats available is not what is done in polite society.
I know in terms of complaints against train companies it comes way behind trains not turning up, increasing fares and overcrowding, but at the very least you get to see another glimpse into my brain. Feel free to let me know of your public transport dilemmas. You can contact me via the comments button or on Twitter @anunknowncomic
Cheers
Til next time, stay safe!
