Claire Turner is a student at Indiana University Bloomington and an ISA Featured Blogger. Claire is currently studying abroad in Reading, England on an ISA Fall 1 program.
So by now I have told you about the buses here in Reading, but that is not the only mode of transport her: Cabs and Trains, common to Reading and easy to use.
There are two types of cabs here in Reading. There are the infamous “Black Cabs” and the less famous, but more practical, Mini Cabs. The Black Cabs are more of what you think when one thinks “cab.” Sorry but not all the cabs are actually black and double sorry cause these are the more expensive of the two cabs. These are the cabs that charge you by the meter and that are usually just waiting for you. These cabs hold five, which softens the blow if you’re with a group. On average the ride from the train station to campus costs about £8.60 (about $14USD).
Mini Cabs can be called beforehand and “ordered.” These cabs are cheaper than the black cabs because it is a flat rate. For a 4-seater it is £6 (~$9.50USD) and for a 6-seater it is £8 (~$13USD). Both types of cabs work the same, and are both really good. You just have to decide if you want to save money (i.e. call a Mini Cab) or go for convenience (which would be a Black Cab). Regardless of what type of cab you prefer it is always best to have a number stored in your phone to call for one.
Reading’s trains are used for National Rail transport. Me and the train station are friends because I am there way too much. One thing I can suggest to you is to get a 16-25 Railcard. The card itself is £28 (~$44) but it pays for itself and them some in only three trips to London (or one trip to Wales whichever you prefer). Fair warning though, you have to take a picture for it, which I was not aware of. I think I scare the conductors with my picture every time they have to check my card. A majority of my trips into the station have been to get into London. The Reading Train Station is easy to get around and all of the employees are really helpful! I love going to the train station because I just love trains!
Although there are so many transportation forms available here in Reading I would say that when you have a chance, walk! It’s free, it’s fun, and you get to really look at the Reading outside of the university; which if you wanted to know is a true, authentic, adorable British Town!!
