Christmas Traffic

That time of the year is upon us again,

13th month bonuses,

Christmas Pay,

and the unbelievable amount of traffic it causes.

A true test of Patience

There are a lot of reasons for this, some are worth mentioning:

1. Christmas bonuses are given 2 to 3 weeks before December 25. Chances are people are trying to get their christmas shopping as early as possible. Some companies release theirs almost at the same time so that will add to the amount of people driving off to the nearest mall to window-shop, while some take the easy way out and shop online. (Which may also contribute to the traffic since the products are being delivered)

Bumper to Bumper is an understatement

2. Road re-blocking and construction sites are becoming more rampant. Since there is an increased volume of vehicles on the road, more and more stress is being put to the road and the asphalt gives out.

3. People are not risking taking the Train. Sure the MRT is one of the fastest transportations to get you where you need to be, but current events like broken train tracks, maintenance work and malfunctioning boxcars seem to worry some of the commuters and think that it will be better to bring their own means of transpo. But have you seen the amount of people lately? Taking the bus is beginning to look a lot safer.

This ain't even rush hour.

4. People from the provinces are coming to the city to spend the holidays. Visiting malls, parks and touristy places here in the Metro.

5. Multiple large vehicles (e.g. Buses, Trucks) not staying in their correct lanes. 

So-called Kings of the road

These are just some smidgets of my opinion on why there are a LOT of cars on the road.

I just want to wish all of the motorists to keep a level head and not let road rage take over as it will add fuel to the fire.

Some things I want to add,

1. Always keep a car charger in the car, you may never know when your lifeline will run out during traffic.

2. Keep a stash of snacks and drinks in the vehicle once you get the munchies. Sidewalk vendors and Takatak Boys may be present during these times but we are not guaranteed that what they are selling are safe.

3. Always lock your doors. Since it is the holidays, some thieves may prey on open and vulnerable passengers since you are stuck in traffic and stationary most of the time.

4. Music always does the trick. Listen to fun and relaxing music to lighten the mood.

5. A lively and fun conversation with the other passengers may make time go faster. You may not notice that you are already at your destination since you are so engrossed with the topic of talk. Except for the driver, you can talk, but keep your eyes on the road.

During this holiday season, stay safe and stay patient. 

No matter how hard it may be, you will still reach your destination.

Ingat!