Shaken, Not Stirred

      More Letters From Paradise
         Shaken,Not Stirred
All of us remember the famous words spoken by James Bond, "Shaken, not stirred." We were led to think that he was talking about a martini. We were wrong, he meant riding the bus here in Honolulu. It is there that you get shaken, due, no doubt, to the many pot holes in the city streets. We have some of the worst roads in the country, but we also have one of the best bus services to be found anywhere.

Before I discuss busses and bus service, let me talk about bus stops. They are varied in number. Many have benches with an oriental- style roof, and many in the city are without benches. This is because the benches have been removed to prevent bums from sleeping on them. They are replaced with round concrete mushrooms. Two or three in number.

There are regular-size busses, and some double-size with an accordion pleat joining them together. It is fun to sit in the middle four seats, where the two parts of the bus is connected. When making a turn, those four seats revolve. Some of the busses have a bike rack on the front. It can hold two bikes. When you enter the bus you find that the driver has lowered it, making the bus level with the curb. A special feature on each bus is the front few seats can be moved upwards to accomomdate a wheel chair. There are also locking devices for the chair.

If you really want to see the ethnic mix of the people here in Honolulu,there are two places to go. One is Wal-Mart, and the other is the bus. Though sometimes really jam-packed, people are very nice and polite.

It is possible to take the bus all around the entire island. My friend Ray has made threats that one day we will jump on any bus, and keep making transfers, just to see where it will go. Also, senior citizens can buy a year-long pass for $30.00. Regular bus fare is now $2.50. Still, a good deal. Many people ride the bus, rather than own a car. Bus drivers are helpful, directing tourists to the proper bus. And, in conclusion I would suggest that you try and not get a seat directly over the wheels. Pretty bumpy there. Remember the pot holes and "shaken, not stirred."

           Aloha
           Grant