Some pass the time by sleeping, while others hide in a corner to have their breakfast. They hide because eating or drinking is not allowed. Some read the paper, a magazine or a book, and some women knit.
Younger people listen to their iPods or get absorbed in a video game. It is also common to see students studying and preparing for their lessons.
But some behaviours bother me. Some passengers won't give up their seats for the disabled or elderly, and some talk too loudly. It is inconsiderate and selfish.
But, on the whole, bus rides are pleasant and safe and give me a chance to watch people.
Jacqueline Lu, The Chinese Foundation Secondary School
From the Editor
Thanks for your letter, Jacqueline. On a recent trip to Nepal I watched the folks in Kathmandu cram into buses like sheep in a pen. What's more, many male passengers sat on the roof of the bus because there was no room inside. I don't mean it was an open-air party-bus like the ones you see in Hong Kong, it was just the average luggage rack which they had to cling to.
Then off they went along the broken-up, muddy road which was jam-packed with other vehicles, pedestrians and even cattle, dogs and the odd goat. You can be sure there was no air conditioning on those hot dogs. Perhaps being on the roof was the more comfortable option.
Susan, Editor