Comments on: Super Advanced Colectivo Etiquette for Buenos Aires

By: Andrea

Andrea — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 20:16:16 +0000

Cynthia is right: we have diferent signals for cabs and buses. The angle of the arm is the key. Very good point.
Love the way you write about things that are so “normal” for locals. Absolutely funny.

By: Stephen

Stephen — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 21:39:45 +0000

Epa! I think a special mention should be made that you're also expected to do the latter half of the High Jump when it comes to getting off! As someone used to overkill on safety regulations it's something of an unexpected surprise when that delightful moment comes – even when the last step ISN'T missing! XD
As for Demon Driver of the 19 who enjoys running his hands (yes, both) through his flowing locks whilst cruising at a modest 80kph along a suitably cobbled road, I feel I should own a medal for surviving that journey without a scratch, many times!

By: Stephen

Stephen — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:40:59 +0000

(oops, double-post, sorry)

By: Jorgelina

Jorgelina — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:54:49 +0000

Sometimes you don't mean to be a false flagger but you can't help it! You extend your arm lower than usual…you look at the big windshield and try to guess how packed the bus is, and then fold your arm quickly back in when you notice it's chock-full! And that's how you become a false flagger! lol Specially for buses like 140, 93 and 60 at certain times of the day!

By: Cynthia

Cynthia — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:11:13 +0000

haha, many times I've been a false flagger.
Remember that usually, in order to let bus and cab drivers which one you wish to stop, you need to make a different signal. When you want to stop a bus you'll extend your arm quite horizontally (or higher), while with cabs you'll do a 45* or 50* angle.

By: Todd Morrill

Todd Morrill — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:40:43 +0000

"false flaggers" funny

By: Van Cecconi

Van Cecconi — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:12:28 +0000

wow..
I'm argentinian and I couldn't have explained it better.. Will, you just nailed it!

PLUS, I wasn't aware of the fact that everybody has to flag the bus so that the driver can calculate how many people wish to board! lol
I always did it cause i'm afraid the driver will not stop

By: Evie

Evie — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:16:20 +0000

That's awesome, dawg. I just caught the 118 to Belgrano with the Playboy emblems all up in the front like dat. Colectivos rock!

By: Keith, Cali

Keith, Cali — Mon, 04 May 2009 22:51:34 +0000

Well said Harris! Some of the best ways to see BsAs are on the buses here. The pollution and noise are about the only drawbacks. This city has some of the best public transportation in the world, which is a step in the right direction. I hope they continue and start going hybrid. What a phenomenal concept of BA leading the way-

By: Sean

Sean — Mon, 04 May 2009 22:50:59 +0000

Harris- I feel ya buddy. There's nothing more satisfying than making eye contact at the right time in an undesignated spot and having the doors open for you.
If current government trends continue, it's unlikely we'll see a hybrid switch but it would be quite the drastic improvement.
Colectivos Rule!