Cycling in London:

I used to cycle 30 minutes every day from where I lived to get to my university for classes, and I had always enjoyed it. Cycling in London is a joyful thing to do and there’s a great sense of discovery that comes with commuting around the city by bike. From going to the university to getting my groceries at the big supermarkets, and from commuting into the city centre to taking a break in Hyde Park, my bike had always been my great companion anywhere I wanted to go in the city.

Over the past eight London has invested huge sums into turning the British capital into a cyclist-friendly metropolis. In addition to the citywide Cycle Hire scheme to the Cycle Superhighways which are new bike lanes linking London’s outskirts to the centre of the city, the London Mayor has recently proposed a fine for drivers who drive in cycle lanes. London’s road traffic volume is comparable to Hong Kong’s yet bikes and buses have equal status on the road over there. It is amazing how they have done it while Hong Kong is still far from reaching the international benchmark.

The culture on roads is something that I do really appreciate in London. Drivers and cyclists respect each other's right to use the road. Commuting to work by bike during rush hour is normal. Besuited professionals follow the same traffic rules as other road users. The only two things that are against you from commuting by bike are the harsh weather in winter and cycle theft. Other than that, as long as you have your helmet, gloves, front and rear lights and your bike locks, you are ready to go!