I was awoken this morning to the sound of a thousand birds all trying to talk at the same time. Much like crazy bustle I encounter these days on the early morning train rides to work. Though, honestly, that hasn’t happened much… catching the early train, that is.
I’ve decided to brave the South African rail system despite all the unpleasantries that people have mentioned to me regarding safety and well, safety. It’s the primary concern. Of course no one will tell you what the benefits are, they’re probably all taking the train secretly themselves, hogging the wealth as it were.
For starters I get to work earlier, and most of my previous colleagues will vouch for this, I’m not one for getting to work ontime, let alone early. I’m also saving a crapload of cash as I’m no longer filling up the car on a weekly basis. Incidently I’m also saving the cash I usually tip Zolani the petrol jockey. This counts as I regard myself as somewhat of a good tipper as I can’t find any other reason why he’d beat his colleagues in a sprint to my car, dive-tackling anyone who dares to get there before he does. This on it’s own is a huge cost-saving. Also seeing as I’m driving less, the car is also saving wear, if you really want to count cents and then there is the occasional benefit of excerise if I am indeed late for a train.
All saved, I get to take the train with a good cross-section of the South African population. Businessmen, nurses, mop boys, black kugels and common criminals all use it. Some out of necessity, some because they saving for a large electronics purchase. The bottomline here is that it’s cheap, and at least 60% safer than it used to be when I was still studying.
The secret to avoiding being dicked with is simply to “act like you’re supposed to be there”. If you start acting all cautious and shit, you’re asking for someone to relieve you of your cellphone, wallet, shoes, etc. Even if someone does want your stuff, they’ll need to find you alone and not in the presence of some security “official”. That said, it’s reasonably safe.
It’s a real alternative to beating the high cost of petrol in this country and at R20 per week, the only thing cheaper is walking.
Tags: 4 Comments
Hey peasants! It has been really long while since I posted anything here, almost 5 months. Fortunately there’ll be no excuses as I’m sure you know how things go between work and the time you fall asleep on the couch.
Thanks again.
