12 Rules People Must Know To Survive D.C.

We asked, and you answered! As a major metropolitan city and the capital of the United States, a lot is going on in Washington, D.C. at all times. Whether you’re a true Washingtonian, a new transplant, or a tourist just visiting, the District can be overwhelming! So we asked you—our trusted Secret D.C. readers—to share your secrets to survival and tell us the rules you must know to survive in D.C. We rounded up some of the best responses below:

1. Know the difference between DCA and IAD.

2. “Stay inside all summer to avoid mosquitos.”

3. When meeting someone for the first time, you don’t ask their name. You ask, “So what do you do?”

4. Beware the speed-traps and red light cameras.

5. Right lanes are for bicycles and parked cars.

6. “Crosswalks are for the weak.”

7. Always make brunch reservations ahead of time.

8. Be sure to check if your bus is going northbound or southbound.

9. You walk on the left side of the escalator and you stand on the right.

10. Get to your cafe/bakery early if you want something specific.

11. Keep your eyes peeled for rats and cockroaches.

12. “As long as you are willing to pay $19 for mediocre cocktails and 30% tip you should be ok.”