2007 - May

[Sweder]

Beijing has changed.
Setting off on a car journey in rush-hour must be like stepping into a fast-flowing river. There are still pushbikes a-plenty, adding to the general spirit of chaos. In Shenzhen last year we witnessed a car take out a cyclist at a junction. It seemed to us that the larger vehicle was in the wrong; however, once he'd established minimal impact damage to his bumper the driver angrily admonished the female pedalist as she stirred sluggishly on the ground.

The other issue in Beijing supports your last point about signage, though the confusion is exacerbated by the language and alarming lack of landmarks. I'd simply never know where the hell I was; so many buildings look identical when covered in a generous coating of dust.

On reflection Mexico City probably wins.
Taking a cab in Mexico is a hazard. We were warned to stick to the 'official' taxis and steer clear of the ubiquitous green VW Beatles. On arrival at our hotel the concierge offered conflicting advice, assuring us that the sickly love-bugs were 'safe, senior. Very, very safe.' One type of cab was likely to drive you off at breakneck speed to the edge of town, whereupon you'd be robbed, beaten, raped and left for the vultures; the other would take you to your destination. It took several nervy days for us to determine which was which, and I'm buggered if I can remember now.

Perhaps it's safer to drive :o