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Ah, the London Underground, a place of hustle and bustle, where people from all walks of life converge in a symphony of movement. But amidst the hum of the trains and the chatter of the crowd, there’s a debate that’s been simmering for years: Should you eat on the tube?
Last week, as I was on my daily commute, I witnessed a sight that would make any Londoner’s eyebrows raise. A fellow commuter, with gusto and flair, was devouring not one, but two steak bakes, a sausage roll, and a cake, all in the span of just four stops. As crumbs flew and aromas wafted, I couldn’t help but wonder: Is this acceptable tube etiquette?
Now, before you jump to conclusions, let’s dive into the meat (pun intended) of the matter.
For some, the tube is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a dining car. “I eat on the tube whenever I want,” declares one defiant commuter. And technically, they’re not wrong. TFL’s official “Conditions of Carriage” document, which lays out the do’s and don’ts of tube travel, makes no mention of food. So, while you can’t light up a cigarette or ride a hoverboard, munching on a sandwich is fair game.
Moreover, some argue that eating on the go is a necessity. With hectic work schedules, especially for professions like nursing, the tube journey might be the only time some get to eat. One student even mentioned how they use their commute to “catch up on sleep, studies, and to fill my stomach.”
However, not everyone is on board with this culinary trend. The main bone of contention? The smell. No one wants to be trapped in a carriage with the overpowering scent of a tuna sandwich or a spicy noodle soup. And while TFL once had “please don’t eat smelly food” posters, they seem to have disappeared, much like the crumbs from our aforementioned commuter’s meal.
Cleanliness is another concern. The tube, while regularly cleaned, isn’t exactly a five-star dining establishment. And with reports suggesting that the poles we all grip are only thoroughly cleaned every few days, maybe it’s best to keep food out of the equation.
Interestingly, this debate isn’t unique to London. In Hong Kong, eating on the tube is outright illegal. Meanwhile, in Japan, it’s considered quite rude, even if not legally prohibited.
While the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Londoners are passionate about their tube etiquette. Whether you’re team “dine-on-the-go” or team “wait-till-you’re-home,” always remember to be considerate of your fellow passengers. After all, we’re all in this (tube) journey together.
So, dear reader, where do you stand on this great debate? To eat or not to eat on the tube, that is the question!
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