Bus Fare: Collected writings on the London bus

London's iconic buses are not just a mode of transportation; they are deeply embedded in the city's culture, creating a unique world for thousands of people who depend on them for a livelihood. This new collection celebrates the relationship between Londoners and their buses, revealing fascinating facts and stories about their history and impact on the capital.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2018
Publisher: AA Publishing

London's iconic buses are instantly recognizable, endlessly imitated, and beloved by both tourists and Londoners alike. They are not just a vital component of the city's infrastructure but are deeply embedded in its culture, written about, sung about, joked about, filmed, painted (and painted on), advertised, and celebrated in countless ways. For the many thousands of people who have depended on them for a livelihood, including drivers, conductors, cleaners, mechanics, inspectors, they have created their own world, complete with a distinct language, uniforms, places, and individuals from every imaginable culture and ethnicity.

This new collection aims to celebrate the unique relationship that Londoners have with their most important mode of transport, revealing all the things you never knew about London's lifeblood and how it has kept the capital moving for more than a century. While tourists take the tube, the bus is the preferred mode of transportation for real Londoners.

The buses have a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century when they were introduced as a means of providing affordable public transportation in the city. Over the years, they have evolved to become a symbol of London's diversity and resilience. Today, London's bus fleet is one of the largest in the world, serving over 2 billion passengers annually.

One of the most distinctive features of London's buses is their eclectic mix of passengers. From students and workers to tourists and elderly residents, everyone uses the buses to get around the city. The buses also play a crucial role in connecting different communities, particularly those that are marginalized or excluded from other forms of transportation.

In addition to their practical function, London's buses have also become a cultural phenomenon. They have been the subject of numerous books, films, and songs, and have inspired countless artists and designers. The buses have also been used as a platform for social and political activism, with campaigns and protests being organized on their routes.

Despite their many benefits, London's buses face several challenges. They are often crowded and uncomfortable, particularly during peak hours. They are also prone to traffic congestion and delays, which can cause frustration for passengers and disrupt the city's economy.

To address these challenges, the London Mayor's Office has launched several initiatives to improve the bus network. These include the introduction of new bus routes, the expansion of the Night Tube service, and the implementation of smart ticketing systems to reduce congestion and improve efficiency.

In conclusion, London's buses are more than just a mode of transportation; they are a cultural icon and a vital component of the city's infrastructure. They have created their own world, complete with a distinct language, uniforms, places, and individuals from every imaginable culture and ethnicity. While they face several challenges, the London Mayor's Office is committed to improving the bus network and ensuring that it remains a safe, reliable, and accessible means of transportation for all Londoners.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 212 x 145 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780749579289