China, Beijing 10 (departure)

October 26, 2010: My last day in what is probably one of the most magnificent cities around. Originally I’d planned to stay in Beijing for 3 days – it turned into 15. Now it’s time to say goodbye, for now, to lots of lovely people, my incredibly helpful couchsurfing host and my little place in the south of Beijing.

There’s a saying that goes: if you really want to say you’ve been to Beijing, you have to have experienced the following:
- the Great Wall of China
- the Forbidden City
- Peking duck
- the nightlife and the street stalls
- and … the Beijing rush hour!
Everything ticked off except the last item. And what better way to do it than with an oversized backpack, during the evening rush hour, on one of the busiest metro lines (Line 1)? What fun! Despite the security staff pushing and shoving, twice I didn’t stand a chance of getting on. But somehow I had to get to the station, as the train certainly wasn’t going to wait for me. OK, third attempt. Another train pulled in, the doors opened. I lunged forward to grab a pole inside and hauled myself, backpack and all, partly over people’s heads into the carriage. The doors closed – made it! Interestingly, nobody complained; instead I got appreciative looks and friendly nods. People quickly shuffled around and after that I could stand comfortably. Last item: rush-hour metro experience? Done! – And under difficult conditions at that. ;)

Once I’d made it to – and into – Beijing West Railway Station, I marvelled at the crowds. Luckily my CS host steered me quickly and efficiently through the seemingly endless station, packed with tens of thousands of people, to the right waiting hall. (The picture shows just one of many waiting halls…)

Almost on time, the gates to the platforms opened and the stream of people carried me to my train with hardly any effort on my part. I said a heartfelt goodbye, quickly took one last photo and hopped on the train for a new leg of the journey: Xi’an. Beijing, I will definitely always have unforgettably fond memories of you!