There’s something wonderful about riding a tram. It has far more charm than a bus or a train. Maybe it’s because many tram systems in existence today are ancient and creaking, like this one in Lisbon, an obvious reminder of the past. What I like about them, though, is their immediacy and connection with the surroundings: other forms of transport are more speedy, but seal you off from the places you are passing through, whereas the old tram, with its open windows and doors and snail’s pace mean that you are much more in touch with the environment.
Hiroshima has trams too, but these days many of the old stock have been replaced by sleek, newer, more efficient models, which are good, but lack entirely that thrill of riding a rickety old one.
Count yourself lucky if the place where you live still has such gems rattling around…
“Night Tram” : Lisbon, Portugal, 7th September
