h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

...and maybe outside Limerick, Cork etc; the country bus drivers are (what's the opposite of jobsworths?). I live in Co. Donegal, and have never failed to hail a bus between stops; unless it turns out to be a tourist coach. Or to be let off anwhere that's safe. The drivers always seem to have a few errands, too, so don't worry if the bus stops at what seems an illogical place. Despite all this, the drivers keep remarkably to schedule.

The drivers I've met are all happy to talk, and it doesn't seem to affect their skilful driving. Lots of people seem to know each other, but first names are normal here anyway, even at the bank; anything else seems rather cold after living here a while. Do thank the driver; he'll probably thank you anyway, and make you feel at home generally. Country passengers (like country pedestrians) will say hello to you a lot, too.

Quite a contrast with London, where I hail from! (no pun intended). It's one of the pros of living here.