Transportation

Despite the system's age, Boston's public transport system serves the Downtown area well, though beyond the city core, it may crawl. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates daily bus, train & streetcar services in both the city & the nearby suburbs. Some subway stations have local scenes painted by fine artists. Others are subterranean concert venues with guitar, flute & percussion played by struggling musicians. A large black 'T' on a white circular sign marks 'T' stations. A single trip on any underground conveyance costs $1, while surface buses cost 75c. Buy tokens for the 'T' at each station in the manned booth & you must pay with exact change as you board buses. A bargain is the Boston Visitors Passport, which entitles you to one, three or seven days' unlimited travel. Buy one at the 'T' station for $6, $11 or $22 respectively. Maps & timetables are also available by calling the Travel Information Center on Tel: 617 722 3200, or ask your hotel concierge.