Long Beach (CA) is one of the cities with well-developed public transportation.

While it is rare for Koreans to live without a car, young residents and retired seniors in Long Beach can get around using buses without a vehicle.

The bus system in this area is operated by a company called Long Beach Transit (LBT), which connects not only within Long Beach but also to nearby cities, making it quite convenient to live without a car. In the city center, there is a main transfer area called 'Transit Mall,' where most routes pass through or start.

There are about 37 to 38 bus routes in Long Beach, covering every corner along major roads.

Bus number 1 goes from Long Beach to California State University, Dominguez Hills, and there are many routes to nearby cities like Carson and Paramount. Additionally, buses 41 and 46 that run along Anaheim Street are frequently used by locals. Near downtown, there is also a free shuttle called 'Passport' that connects tourists and residents to the aquarium, beach, shopping malls, and hotel areas.

The bus fare is about $1.25 for a one-way trip. Discounts are available for seniors, disabled individuals, and students, and California State University, Long Beach students can receive free or discounted benefits through school programs. All buses can be paid for with a TAP card or cash, and each stop has a QR code that allows you to check bus arrival times directly on your smartphone.

Operating hours vary slightly by route. Most buses run from around 5 AM to about 10 PM, but some routes only operate on weekdays and do not run on weekends. Especially on weekend evenings or holidays, the last bus times are earlier, so it's a good idea to check the official website (ridelbt.com) or the Transit app before traveling.

One of the advantages of Long Beach's bus system is its connectivity. The bus routes connect with the LA Metro Light Rail (A Line, formerly known as the Blue Line), making it easy to travel from Long Beach to downtown LA. In fact, commuters transfer directly from Long Beach Transit Mall to the light rail to reach downtown LA.

During the summer, there are also water transportation options along the coast, including water taxis called 'Aquabus' and 'Aqualink,' which can be used to explore near the Queen Mary or Long Beach Harbor, serving as both a mode of transport and a sightseeing route.

Overall, Long Beach's bus system is quite friendly for both local residents and first-time visitors. Although the bus intervals can be a bit long, it covers most areas of the downtown, and the stop information is clear, making it easy even for newcomers. However, service is limited late at night, so if you have evening plans, it's best to check the routes and last bus times in advance.

In conclusion, Long Beach offers a variety of routes that allow you to live without a car, and the scenery from downtown to the beach is quite attractive.

If you plan to travel to or live in Long Beach, I recommend downloading the LBT bus app.