The New York Subway system is currently operated by New York City Transit. They are recommended for their quiet, quick routes and excellent accessibility. Subways transport more than three and a half million people on a daily basis and is always up and running, regardless of date or time. Rates can be expensive for shorter commutes ($1.50 per person,) but there is no traffic and no hassle, making it ideal for an evening commute or midday jaunt through the city. The subway system is far more useful for traveling north-south than east-west throughout the city. If you are unsure as to where you are going, there are plenty of easy-to-read maps available at all stations and posted on the trains themselves, so don't worry. The best way to handle payment is through the MetroCard. This is a paper card with a magnetic strip that allows for subway, subway-to-bus, bus-to-subway, and bus-to-bus travel. Purchasing a $15.00 card will grant you a free ride, and each time you swipe for an initial ride, you get a free transfer (they're normally not). Recently, NYC Transit has released an "Unlimited Rides" MetroCard sold in seven and thirty-day intervals, allowing for unlimited travel during that time. "Express" trains run all the time and hit all the major stations only, while "local" ones run during select times and stop at every station. For safety reasons, avoid riding the subways in the middle of the night if you can, and keep a hand on your wallet at all times. Rush hour is an absolute nightmare, so bear that in mind as well. All in all, the subway system is the recommended mode of public transport in New York City, and the Transit Authority is to be applauded for their recent efforts to improve it. The MetroCard makes it that much more convenient.