mcgillianaire | NYC's Subway and PATH

They're some of the world's oldest and extensive public transportation systems, but even for a seasoned Tube traveller like myself, it was a little confusing to begin with. But figure it out and it's fairly straightforward to manoeuvre yourself around the city. They are also two of only four rapid transit systems in America that operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That sets it apart from even the Tube. It is a really good aspect of the Subway, even though we did not really put it to use. However I did have two issues with the network: first the lack of ventilation in most if not all the stations we encountered and second, the uncomfortable journeys in the trains themselves. I can understand how sauna-like conditions are good in the winter, but what about when it's warm/hot outside? In contrast, Tube trains can get hot but the stations themselves are usually really well ventilated. And as we learnt recently, the first air-conditioned Tube train stock have entered service, with a full completed upgrade expected by 2015. Finally, as we were in NYC during 9/11, I was not allowed to take a picture in one station on the anniversary itself. And I took care to avoid getting caught on other occasions, but still managed to sneak in a few. Enjoy!

This advert was plastered all over the Subway network.

47th–50th Streets – Rockefeller Center station. Tube trains and stations are more colourful, pleasing to the eye and a whole lot cleaner.

47th–50th Streets – Rockefeller Center station again with S peering into the abyss.

Our hotel was located just outside NYC in Newport, New Jersey - across from Manhattan. We had a view of the Financial District from our room. The Subway didn't cover our area, so this station was on the PATH network. It also runs 24/7/365 and chiefly serves commuters.