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To start a conversation with someone on the train, bus, or subway, start by getting the person’s attention, then find something that they want to talk about. When you see someone you want to talk to, glance at them and smile. Use open body language, like keeping your arms uncrossed and facing them fully. If the person looks away, puts a book or newspaper in front of their face, or moves, then don't bother them. However, if they return your gaze, smile, or look relaxed, then approach them to start talking. If there’s a seat available next to them, ask “Is this seat taken?” Break the ice by asking an open-ended question, like “How are you handling the heat” or “How do you get downtown from here?” To help the person feel more comfortable, talk about yourself before asking a question, like “This is my first time on the train. Do you ride often, or is this your first time too?” To learn how to end a conversation that you’ve started on the train, bus, or subway, keep reading!