Bicycling in Beijing

When I left the states I was sure that I would not ride a bike in Beijing because there were too many people and cars. There are eight lanes of traffic everywhere and cabs and buses pulling in and out of every corner. I was terrified of riding a bike. Then the dreadful day came when I had to purchase a bike, I made it to the bike store and picked out a pretty teal bike with a nice bell and basket (the bells are much needed), and then I was forced to ride the bike home. It was scary at first and I screamed anytime another biker or taxi was riding at me, and every time I screamed the Chinese men would scream back at me it was hilarious. I made it home and found out that bike riding is not that bad. Although, every time you get on the bike it is still an adventure b/c you have to be fully aware of what is going on around you. Last night I spent a few hours biking around Beijing with some friends to explore the city and it was soo beautiful. At night Beijing is lit up and there is a lot of hustle and bustle. It is an exciting place to be and it is fun to feel the crisp air as your ride through the huge city, it makes you feel alive.