When I was young and visited my grandma and grandad I used to marvel at the transportation system that served their area; something we knew as the ‘trolley bus’.

The Teesside trolleybus system – opened on 8 November 1918 – was unusual for being a completely new system that was not replacing any previously operating tramway system. It was significantly extended in the post-war years to serve the needs of a social housing drive.

The entire Teesside trolleybus system was shut down on 4 April, 1971, by the Teesside Municipal Transport company, which viewed the electric trolley system as old-fashioned.

Well, it appears that, as is the case with other world-leading engineering feats, manufactured and completed by the good people of Teesside…

… Teesside led the way in trolleybus systems. Forward 100+ years and we have, in downtown Beijing… the trolley bus…

I rest my case!

Another mode of transport favoured by Beijingers is the good old honest bicycle. You will recognise the idea from other cities across the world. It is certainly a system that is well used here. Just don’t get in their way! A useful tactic we quickly learned was not to eyeball them, for if they know you have seen them they will ride full tilt at you, whereas if they suspect you have not seen them they will slow down enough for you to save your own skin.

Clearly, the fact that Beijingers hop on a bike and head for central locations results in a considerable build-up of yellow and blue machines. However, the authorities have that covered and bicycle redistribution is a constant piece of work – one that is carried out with vigour…

Forgive the obsession but check out this short video clip (taken from our hotel room) of the whole dynamic. The poor guy cannot replenish the stock of bicycles quick enough as those wanting to use them approach, armed with app, and smartly away…

And so, to something a little more modern, as we leave Beijing and head for Xi’an, some 710 miles to the West.

Easy transition to Beijing West Railway Station…

One final look at Tiananmen Square and Tiananmen Gate…

Communicating with our jovial taxi driver along the way, he insisted that we didn’t really want to enter the station by the North Square, rather, he knew better, the South Square is so much quieter, and easier. He should know.

Looking for train G353…

And on, all in good time…

We set off bang on time, of course!

And were quickly up to speed…

End note:

Proof positive that it’s the little things that matter… checking out of our hotel, the young lady noticed a little nick on my finger and handed me a little pack of plasters, with a lovely smile 😊