I have enjoyed using the public transportation in Melbourne. Despite my initial nervous jitters about getting lost or not knowing what to do, it felt very natural to start riding the trams and trains here. People were very helpful when I had questions. It helped that I had used public transportation before in Chicago. Aside from a few differences, Chicago and Melbourne have very similar transportation systems. I wonder how they would compare to New York City subway systems. Have you used the subway before to travel around your area? Do you think it sounds different from the Melbourne modes of public transportation?
I think the way people get around in Melbourne is connected to the fact that it is such a large city. Without public transportation, road congestion would be a major problem. Too many cars would lead to pollution. Melbournians are passionate about the environment. In fact, very recently, tens of thousands of people gathered in Melbourne's city circle to demand action on climate change. With citizens so deeply invested in doing what is best for the gorgeous natural area they live in, public transportation is a must.