Do you have to flag a bus in London?

London’s Silent Signal: The Art of Bus Summoning

In the bustling metropolis of London, navigating public transportation can be an art form unto itself. One seemingly mundane task that visitors often find puzzling is the act of hailing a bus. Unlike in many other cities, London’s iconic red double-deckers do not automatically stop at every designated bus stop. Instead, they rely on a subtle yet effective communication system that empowers passengers to orchestrate their own boarding experience.

At the heart of this system lies the “silent signal.” As a bus approaches your stop, it is not enough to simply stand on the sidewalk and wait patiently. To ensure your prompt pickup, you must initiate the signal. This silent language of the hand takes one of two forms:

• The Extended Hand: Extend your hand palm forward, fingers pointing towards the bus. Keep your arm straight and slightly raised, as if offering the bus a friendly wave.

• The Subtle Wave: For a more discreet approach, raise your hand slightly and give a gentle wave. This signal should be visible to the bus driver but not overly exaggerated.

As you extend your hand or wave, maintain eye contact with the driver. This helps establish a connection and ensures that your request is acknowledged. The driver will typically respond with a nod or a slight flash of their hazard lights. Once the bus has come to a complete stop, you can board safely and begin your journey.

The silent signal serves several important purposes. First, it prevents buses from making unnecessary stops at empty stops, saving both time and fuel. Second, it allows passengers to control the pace of their own boarding. By signaling the bus, you can ensure that it arrives at your stop when you are ready to board, rather than being forced to wait for it to pull away again.

Finally, the silent signal is a testament to the unique etiquette and politeness of Londoners. It is a subtle and respectful way to communicate with bus drivers, who often face long and demanding shifts. By following the silent signal, you are showing your consideration for their time and effort.

So, the next time you find yourself in London, remember the power of the silent signal. With a simple wave or extended hand, you can summon a red double-decker to your designated stop and embark on a journey through the heart of this vibrant city.