It’s amazing how people on the metro can not see the large belly of a 24 week pregnant woman (that’s “6 months” to non-pregnant people). Yep – the mind boggles at how these good citizens don’t notice your belly, but can turn around and look at you in annoyance as your handbag brushes up against them as you try to find somewhere to stand…
Conversely, it’s also amazing how much people DO notice your “6 months pregnant belly” when cycling…the looks of horror, shock and general “what the hell is that woman doing cycling!?” is something to see.
For my part, I’m utterly sick of the few times I’ve had to take the metro and standing for almost 40 minutes while people seated, diligently study their iphones (or similiar device) for fear of them actually seeing that someone else might be entitled to the seat!
I’m not sure for how much longer I’ll be able to cycle, but I’m filled with loathing at the thought of getting the metro
Just Weaving 
Once, when I saw a very pregnant woman standing in a subway train and stood up to give her my seat, I inadvertently triggered a tidal wave of men leaping to their feet all abashed. So I suggest that for occasional amusement you get an accomplice to get on at the stop before yours – or however far back along the line you need to be to get a seat – then have them leap up when you board the train. Even if it doesn’t change the habits of the travelling public, you’ll both have the pleasure of shaming them from time to time.
Yep, you’re right Cally – but I was the only “sucker” from my office on the metro on that route! I’m on my bike again now and feeling much better for it.
I’m not sure your tactic would work in Barcelona, I’ve noticed a severe lack of shame when it comes to letting large-bellied pregnant woman stand it out! (That’s what support stockings were invented for, why should they get up?)