Monday, November 06, 2006

Big City Driving- The Problem with Signs

Driving is a major part of my life here in Big City. The traffic is horrendous. Really. Two weeks ago Guapo and I were out and about, at a place approximately 12 miles from our home, and it took us 3 solid hours to get back. Not fun. I could never describe it so you would believe just how bad it is.

But, in this new, informative series I will provide a breakdown of all of the problems that cause us to drive like maniacs and contribute to the major traffic headaches here in Big City.

The multi-faceted problem I wish to highlight today is: signs.

Problem #1: Lack of vegetation maintenance

This one has gotten us before; if you can't read read it, it really isn't helpful.

Problem # 2: Confusing signs



Now, I can figure this sign out; I am an intelligent person. The problem is that signs like this seemed to be positioned right after curves; you approach the sign going 50 mph and it is situated no more than 2 feet in front of the exit you need so that while you are trying to decipher it, whoops, there goes your exit.

Problem #3: the disappearing sign (no need for a photo)

Here's the scenario: you know you have to exit at some point. You see a sign that indicates your exit is approaching, but not in the immediate future, so you feel good. You gain confidence because you know are headed in the right direction. You keep driving. And driving. And driving.

No more signs for your exit.

"But there was a sign," you think to yourself, but now you KNOW you've gone to far. And you find a way to turn around and hope there's a sign for the exit in the other direction.

Grrrrrr.

5 comments:

Deannna - Younique Presenter said...

I feel your pain! I won't even attempt to drive in Mexico city. I was nervous just driving here for awhile, but now that I now where I am going and don't need signs it isn't so bad.

so how are things there? I heard on the news about the bombing of a bank. I hope you aren't anywhere near the crazy stuff.

Super Happy Girl said...

New, informative series. , YAY!!!!
I love the first picture, it is worth 1,000 words.

You know Gabs, I'm a City Girl, but I really don't like Big City, it's just too crazy, the whole traffic thing is just one of the many reason. I drove while visiting Veracruz, my friend was like "You’ve got to stop driving like a gringa!" :D
It’s not for wimps, so this says a lot about you amiga, you are one brave woman. Be safe.

PS. I'm with Amerimeximadre, what was happening today, 3 bombs in 3 different places? wow.

Gabriela said...

amerimeximadre: I had no idea about the bombings until I got yours and NCS's comment. We are fine, oblivious up here in the Beverly Hills of Big City.

NCS: I totally know what you mean. I am a "city girl" too, but Big City is just too much for me. Too many people, too much congestion, traffic, movement. I could never spend my whole life here.

Erickson Family said...

I definitely feel for you after having been to Big City myself. The signs are atrocious! When we were trying to drive from our hotel to the airport, the sign directed us to turn one way and when we did we discovered we were in the middle for a residential street with no other signs telling us where to go! I think it was only by the grace of God that we ever made it on the airplane.

Buena suerte!

Anonymous said...

I am glad I dont know how to drive. that sighn with the arowws all over looked confusing. How do you know your way around here?