I'm going to be visiting the Seattle area for a month this summer, but won't have access to a car for the entire visit. How is Seattle's public transportation? Are the buses safe for a middle aged white woman to travel alone? At night, as well as the day? I'll be staying in the Issaquah area and was wondering if I can take an express bus directly from Issaquah or Bellevue into the city and back? I'd appreciate any help that you can provide. Thanks.

Jill, there are plenty of buses from Issaquah into Seattle; it's a major commuter route. The system (Metro, run by King County) is quite comprehensive and safe; I think you'll be fine. Availability of limited-stop or express buses will depend on your exact location, but yes, there are numerous express services from downtown to Bellevue or Issaquah. http://transit.metrokc.gov/

Jill - The advice from John is good. But with any public transportation, I guess in today's day and age, I question the safety of any woman traveling alone. Maybe we have some female Seattle posters who can help advice on this matter. I think traveling into the city by bus would be a great solution to Seattle's expensive public parking, but I wouldn't forego saftey for money.

Topper for Jill

Safe for a middle age white woman? What are you trying to say? Please think about it.

I think it's pretty obvious what she's trying to ask and I can't say that I blame her. After hearing about the rioting up in Seattle, I'd be concerned as well with using public transportation without a little advanced planning.