Kermān Public Transport: A Drummer's Guide to Surviving the Bus Routes
okay, so i'm a touring session drummer, which means i've hauled my kit through more cities than i can count, and kermān's public transport? it's... an experience. not gonna lie, the first time i tried to navigate it, i ended up on the wrong side of town with a cymbal bag and a very confused taxi driver. but after a few weeks of trial, error, and some seriously questionable bus stops, i think i've cracked the code. or at least, i've survived it.
*the bus system: it's cheap. like, ridiculously cheap. you're looking at around 5,000 toman for a ride, which is basically pocket change. but here's the thing: the buses don't really stick to a schedule. they come when they come, and if you're not paying attention, you'll miss your stop. pro tip: download the "Kermān Transit" app (yes, it exists, and no, it's not perfect, but it's better than nothing). also, carry small bills. the drivers don't always have change, and you don't want to be that guy holding up the line.
the shared taxis: these are the real MVPs of Kermān. they're like mini-buses but faster, and they run on set routes. you just hop in, tell the driver where you're going, and they'll drop you off along the way. it's chaotic, but it works. and if you're carrying gear (like, say, a snare drum), the drivers are usually cool about it. just don't expect a lot of legroom.
the metro: okay, so Kermān doesn't have a metro. yet. there's talk of one being built, but until then, you're stuck with buses and taxis. but hey, it's a good excuse to explore the city on foot, right?
weather and neighbors: kermān in the summer? it's hot. like, "i can fry an egg on the sidewalk" hot. but the winters are mild, and the surrounding mountains are just a short drive away if you need to cool off. and if you're feeling adventurous, yazd and shiraz are just a few hours away by bus. totally worth the trip.
overheard gossip: "the buses are fine, but the drivers? they're all insane." "yeah, but have you tried the shared taxis? it's like a rollercoaster, but cheaper." "just don't sit in the back if you're carrying anything valuable. people will step on your gear without even noticing."
data table:Cost of Living in Kermān Average Monthly Cost Rent (1-bedroom) 3,000,000 toman Utilities 500,000 toman Groceries 1,500,000 toman Transportation (monthly) 200,000 toman Entertainment 300,000 toman
pro-tips for drummers:
- always carry a drum key. you never know when you'll need to make a quick adjustment.
- invest in a good gig bag. the buses can be rough on your gear.
- learn a few phrases in farsi. it'll make your life a lot easier.
external links*:
- Kermān Transit App
- TripAdvisor: Kermān Transportation
- Reddit: r/Kermān
- Yelp: Kermān Local Businesses
look, kermān's public transport isn't perfect. but it's part of the adventure. and if you're a drummer (or any musician, really), you'll figure it out. just bring your patience, your sense of humor, and maybe an extra pair of drumsticks. you'll need them.
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