I love to get stuck in traffic :

Beijing traffic has incredible potential to wreck ones nerves. The number of cars increases dramatically while the infrastructure tries to keep track. However, the latter is not only loosing the race but also suffers the legacy of some insane errors of construction (little example: the offramps of the ringroads are just about 100meters AFTER the onramps..). Public transport (except the two existing subway lines I would say) exists and is relatively cheap but is chaotic and inefficient (since there is no such thing as separate lanes for public transport, etc..). Furthermore, the collective action problem also harms China: is there a small gap on the other lane potentially advancing you individually, there is no doubt everyone ceases it, disregarding the fact that the resulting chaos slows everyone down.. Well, well, this situation is likely to continue until the new subway lines are opened and public transport becomes a valid alternative to private transportation or then until the drastic policy measures for the Olympic games kick in (to help very temporarily)..

Don't get me wrong: I looove this situation for two reasons.

First, cruising through the city on my "dove" (Chinese bike brand (yep, I think it's one of these few homegrown brands.. ;)) is adventurous and opportunities to ring my bell (brandnew. At least 20 years newer than all the other parts of my bike) numerous. Secondly and more importantly, I have plenty of time to listen to podcasts. My may to work: just enough for an episode of "International" (Excellent program on international affairs done by DRS, Swiss radio station) or "From our own correspondents" (News from around the world presented with English wit and insight. BBC) or then half of an episode of my current favorite: the podcasts of the Carnegie Council, the "Voice for Ethics in International policy". My way to Chinese classes: just enough for another episode of Chinesepod, a morning show from Shanghai helping foreigners to get fit in Chinese, the fun way. These are only some of the great resources out there. Especially interesting also the course ware put online by institutions such as MIT.

This, and a bit of Britney Spears in between (sheit, Christine K. got me on this one ;) really helps not only to stay sane in Beijing traffic, but even do so with a smile ;)

transportation,
beijing, podcast, learning, media