290 – Riding the Subway
Misha: I’d like to buy a token for the subway.
Clerk: The subway doesn’t use tokens anymore.
Misha: Oh? I didn’t know that. It’s been a few years since I visited New York. How do I pay for the fare?
Clerk: You can buy a ticket for a single ride that expires two hours after it’s issued. If you’re going to be here all week, I’d suggest getting a 7-day card that gives you unlimited rides. Otherwise, I’d recommend getting a MetroCard.
Misha: I’m only here for two days. How much is each ride?
Clerk: It’s $2.00. If you buy a MetroCard worth more than $10.00, you get a 20% discount. So with a $10 card, you get six rides instead of five. The card allows you to transfer to buses, too.
Misha: Okay. I’ll take a MetroCard worth $10.00. How is the money deducted from my card?
Clerk: The turnstile automatically deducts the fare each time you go through it. Here’s your card.
Misha: Thanks, but I’m not sure which line to take to Queens.
Clerk: Here’s a subway map. Follow the signs to the platform of the train you want.
Misha: Okay, thanks.