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Transport

Although Beijing's public transport system is extensive, including a comprehensive bus network and the subway, many visitors soon tire of hot overcrowded buses and rush hour congestion underground and make use of taxis. Cycling is also a good alternative with numerous bicycle rentals around the city, and well-defined bike lanes, bike parks and the company of millions of other cyclists, especially at rush hour. It may look intimidating, but can be the best way to get around for the more adventurous traveller. For the Olympics in 2008, 50,000 brand new bicycles were made available and can now be rented at outlets close to subway stations, commercial districts, Olympic venues, hotels and office buildings. The subway outside of rush hour is the fastest and easiest form of public transport to use. It is cheap, although not very extensive, and is much more pleasant than taking a bus. Buses are also very cheap, but uncomfortably crowded and care should be taken of valuables and bags. Taxis are plentiful and metered, and are the most common form of transport for visitors, but it is necessary to have the destination written in Chinese characters as drivers rarely speak English. Taxis come in all shapes and sizes with fares printed in the back window; generally the older and smaller the car the cheaper the fare, with luxury sedans that congregate around the main hotels and tourist sites the most expensive. Car hire is not recommended and generally not available - cars must be hired with a driver and are restricted to the city limits.