Being an L.A. native and having just returned from a trip to London where we used the handy TfL app and a contactless credit card to get around easily and efficiently, this opinion piece came as a surprise. Granted, some of the destinations mentioned are definitely not on anyone's sightseeing list, but, still, the enthusiasm was unexpected. And the writer doesn't even mention the avoided cost of parking at destinations and overnight at the hotel nor the time spent/lost looking for it.

https://www.latimes.com/opinion/stor...etro-bus-train

One thing the writer doesn't mention is the route planner on metro.net. (There doesn't seem to be an app.) Perhaps it has improved recently, but in the past I thought it was clunky and might be difficult to use on a phone. There are apps (like Moovit) but AFAIK they don't give real-time info and I've never tried them.

If I were visiting Los Angeles I would definitely rent a car (I grew up there). But I do have Seattle friends who manage to enjoy the city and get all over the place using public transportation.

An alternative perspective

https://www.latimes.com/california/s...n-metro-trains

Many transit agencies now refer riders to Google Maps for real-time transit directions, and they also post warnings about upcoming disruptions.

The last time I used Metro was when the LAX-it bus had passed me up several times (which is the only option when trying to catch a taxi or Uber). So I gave up in disgust, and used public transit. That was three transfers and walking the last 1.5 miles (or maybe I Ubered). The light rail is relatively efficient (if not always pleasant) especially as there were several of the new Ambassadors on board. The last mile is usually the problem (that requires waiting for a different bus which runs only 2x an hour). There are times when I've walked, other times when I've called Uber.

Taking the bus anywhere around Long Beach is not good, triple the drive time.

Many of the bus stops (and enclosed transit stations) are now essentially homeless shelters. A lot of the violent crime is at the stations vs onboard although both happen.

Just pointing out the article was posted 8 months ago, and I think stepped up security has helped. But whether it has helped system-wide, I don't know. We've ridden the Expo Line about a dozen times in the last 3-4 months, Le Cienega station to DTLA and return, a couple of times very late at night. Only one negative experience... a very stinky homeless guy in one car who ended up riding all by himself as everyone migrated to other cars after one stop. FWIW, we saw more homeless people in/around underground stations in London last month, and the L.A. trains are generally cleaner.

While I was in Berkeley this weekend, my husband rode down Friday evening on the Expo line to see if it had gotten any better with the added security. Since the horrible experience we had earlier this summer coming back from the Dodger game. He claims it has gotten better. Although he had to take a $50 Uber back since he stayed downtown until around 1:30 and the trains weren’t running.

i will say that my experience on BART from Berkeley to OAK was wonderful. LA Metro should take a lesson on design, cleanliness, and the use of seat covers that can be wiped off. The cloth ones on the Expo are frightening!

Just rode the Expo line to DTLA. Train car was very clean. Seats are plastic covered. No cloth.

Whenever I visit LA, I use a lot public transportation.
I usually stay in Santa Monica and local Big Blue Bus is very efficient, clean, safe and cheap.
I also use metro bus when going to Malibu, Beverly Hills, Miracle mile, Hollywood...Even cheaper than BBB but less clean + homeless often on board.
I have avoided metro rail after a scary experience (threatening guy). Situation may have improved with the ambassadors.
Traveling by bus usually requires some walking to the final destination or riding your bicycle that you can take with you on the bus (rack in front of the bus).