Standing Room Only - Who Gets the Seats

[audrey1962]

You weren't rude, but since you seem concerned by the other riders reactions, perhaps next time say "excuse me" instead.

[Cat-Fu]

Anyone talking to me during my morning commute who is not going to hand me coffee is totally rude.

I agree with PPs, just saying "excuse me" is sufficient!

[AuntyEm]

As a previous poster replied, when the bus or subway is packed, I think it is ruder to continue standing next to an open seat if you are blocking the aisle.

[TurtleDove]

I thought I would update.  Based on the responses here, I have simply said "excuse me" and moved toward open seats and sat down.  Still, some people seem, I don't know, astonished that I would have the nerve to do that, even though others then followed suit, including the standing people who seem astonished that I say "excuse me" and move past them to a seat they previously made no move toward.  I think it really just comes down to personality.  I am not going to stand if I can sit on the bus, and I think some people need someone else to show them it's okay to sit in open seats.  Baffling to me!