Being used to the solitary calm of the Maglev VIP cabin, last week proved different.

There were five of us and not a single PRC police officer on a free trip. An Aussie family of three and a rather elegant gent who could well have been an FT'er judging by his smart attire and calm behaviour (reading mobile text messages the whole journey)

The Aussie kids loved the ride and while it was supposed to be the meditative part of a hectic day for myself, their (loud) joy was so genuine I melted.

Longyang Rd. station is as awful as before with all the construction going on...Reserve a bit more time if coming or going by subway as the main entrance towards the Maglev is closed due to renovations.