List o'things that happen when you have 17 million people

We have noticed some starch differences that are necessitated by a population the size of Beijing. It can take some getting used to but just like with traveling to any new place you need to approach it with an open mind and be willing to go with the flow (sometimes in a crowd of people, that is all you can do - literally!) You learn to learn to love people really quick when you are packed in like sardines. So on to the list!

1) Public transportation rocks! Using the Subway's, and the buses, and the occasional taxi, you can get to almost anywhere in Beijing within 1.5 hours. However, there is approximately 10 million other people who have the same idea...

average day on subway

2) Every once in a while, if a restaurant is very busy, complete strangers will be seated at your table, if you are both smaller parties.

3) On the plus side, no matter where you are, you can find what you are looking for in your Vincenty. An example: Need something to drink? Walk down the street and take your pick of 50 different vendors that sell drinks. I guess 17 million people would keep most wallets fat.

4) The population of an apartment complex equals or exceeds the size of small towns. Here is a standard complex(s).

5) McDonald's has a window outside for ordering things like ice cream, or other items to go. They also have 24 hour bike delivery. You are never that far from either a KFC or a McDonald's.

6) Missed your bus? Within 3 minutes another bus or another one that will get you there will be by.



7) Even with the 1 child policy, you seem to see hundreds of babies and small children anywhere you go.

8) Even with a higher percentage of the population that smoke, you see that many more smokers. My favorite: those that smoke right near the sign that says 'no smoking'. No one seems to enforce it.

9) Bubble? You want a what?! Personal space has a different meaning here. It can be found, just not very often outside your home. Expect to be bumped into at least once during the day if you are out and about - not counting in public transportation!

10) Construction is a constant. We are not talking simple buidings here, but large apartment complexes or office buildings. Anywhere you go, there is something being built.