Tag: Riding
Photo of the Day 6/25
by Sean on Jun.25, 2009, under Israel, Photos
Camels in the Israeli desert
Towards the end of our Israel trip, we were in the southern end near Eilat. We found ourselves in the desert, and sleeping in giant tents with Bedouin nomads, or what we believed them to be (people usually modernize and change as time goes on, so the were real Bedouins, but not nomads anymore). They gave us a great show and amazing food on giant trays to be shared with others. Eating with our fingers had become normal by this point, and something I greatly miss, as Chinese people think it’s rude to use your bare hands to eat food.
After going south to the Dead Sea and Eilat, we returned to the Bedouins for a camel ride during the day. I felt bad for the smallest camel in the bunch, because it had to shoulder the weight of our two largest male travelers. It was awkward riding on an animal besides a horse, which I was used to from my childhood at summer camp. I quickly got used to it, and even began naming him and the other camels. In the end, my butt hurt and I almost fell off a few times, but the experience and photos to prove it were worth every moment.
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Bike Riding in Wuhan
by Sean on May.14, 2009, under China
Wuhan has recently adapted the brilliant “Vélib’” system implemented in France, where citizens can use public bikes if they obtain a special card. The French system allows people to purchase a subscription to rent bikes for free up to 30 minutes. After the allotted time is up, they begin charging your credit card. Other countries using this type of public bike rental include Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and China.
Bike rack
Yes, I did say China. In February 2009, my city began setting up rental stations and application centers throughout the city. I think this is a huge step for China, and I’m excited by the prospect of riding, as I sold my bike when I moved here from America and haven’t ridden in almost a year. The best thing about this system is that there is no charge unless you are late; it’s great that riders are allowed 4 hours with each bike. If the rider wishes to extend their time, they may drop the bike off at a different station and pick up a new one. If you are late, however, they give you a strike. Three strikes, and they revoke your card.
Application Office
Here is some more information about the new system:
- The application office is open from 7am to 8pm.
- Application forms are limited, so arrive at the center early.
- The most notable center is located on the Southeast corner of Zhong Nan Lu and Hong Shan Lu in the Wuchang district.
- In order to apply for the ID card, you only need a copy of your passport and a passport size photo.
- Once you apply for the ID card, you must wait a week and return to the center to retrieve the card.
- The ID card is valid for 3 years on good behavior.
- If you lose the card, you must pay 5rmb ($0.80) for a replacement.
I love the idea of this system because it makes travel easier and allows you to save money! It promotes exercise to combat the obesity problem caused by the invasion of Western tendencies. Sign up for this free system today, whether you’re looking to exercise or explore the city you’re in!
Wuchang District rental stations
Look for my upcoming article: “Biking in Action,” where I’ll rent a bike, explore something new, and report about how the newly implemented system runs.
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