Dave comments on BART and public transit (Why I like Bart) over at Scripting News. Over the last few years I’ve been down here in Argentina relying almost entirely on public transportation via subway, cab, train, and recently buses.
Every time I go back to the US and start driving again I realize how much I don’t miss it. Yes, there is a freedom to being able to get in your car in drive, anywhere, its also insanely stressful. "Hrm that guy just cut me off!" "Traffic isn’t moving and I need to be at <INSERT DESTINATION> now!".Â
Instead when on public transport I grab a book, my iPod, or whatever and just use the ride to be productive or relax.  Buenos Aires public transport isn’t really as safe as BART. i.e. I’d never pull out my Powerbook and start hacking / waching a movie, etc on the subway, bus, or train. I have pulled it out on long cab rides to watch a DVD though.
But the point is public transport is a much better way to get around. Its too bad LA just doesn’t have it. They tried with the subway, but it just doesn’t have enough stops.Â
The one thing I wish I had a car for would be longer trips. IE LA to Santa Barbara style (2-3 hours plus). Although with gas prices in the US public transport probably is a better deal. ()
 However, I’d be happy if I never had to drive around in a city again. When ever I move back to Santa Barbara to finish school I think I’ll start using the bus system again.
Tags: public transport, trains, cab, subway, bart, buenos aires, driving
