Dutch Cycling Culture: Oh How I Miss Thee…
Sometimes a photo is enough. Or in this case, a compilation of photos by @monsieurballard
Tag: design
Stockholm’s Monday morning cycle commute: the joys of being car-free & carefree
To be stuck in (car) traffic is stressful and annoying: running late to a meeting, to family, a concert or a conference. Argh! Yes, one could leave earlier; but why plan your life around a traffic report?! Driving does not offer independence or the joys of the open road in such circumstances. On the contrary, it… Read More Stockholm’s Monday morning cycle commute: the joys of being car-free & carefree
Copenhagen: Rooftops as an extension of the public space
The Danish capital Copenhagen (population 760,000) offers numerous inspiring examples of how to create a sustainable city. Currently it is developing a new waterfront city district, Nordhavn, transforming an industrial port into a modern residential and business district. While still under development, interesting parts of the district are nearing completion, for example the district parking garage, Lüders P-hus.… Read More Copenhagen: Rooftops as an extension of the public space
Quito: mountains, history & a giant conference about cities
In October 2016, 40000 people gathered in Quito, Ecuador, for the United Nations Habitat III Conference. Unlike other UN processes that focus on national government engagement, “H3” also saw 5000 city leaders make their voices heard, meeting in Quito and Bogotá (Colombia) at related local government events. They did so to ensure the final document adopted, the… Read More Quito: mountains, history & a giant conference about cities
Barcelona: “Superblocks” to the rescue! Returning city streets to the people.
Barcelona, Spain (population: 1.7 million) is a charming coastal city with a medieval town centre, fantastic and famous architecture, great beaches and cliff-side cafés… A friend of mine (from Barcelona) used to describe his city as “the GREATEST city in the world!” After several visits, I can attest: it is one of my favorites! Despite its… Read More Barcelona: “Superblocks” to the rescue! Returning city streets to the people.
Forging the path: cyclists light up their own lanes
I’ve been a bit spoiled over the last years, calling European cities like Budapest, Lund, Malmö and Amsterdam as home. All of these cities have amazing bike lanes, segregated from oncoming vehicular traffic, making cycling the preferred option. While I’m happy that my home city of Seattle is following suit in some parts of the city,… Read More Forging the path: cyclists light up their own lanes
Futuristic Peddle Power: Urban Cycle Innovations
In Amsterdam, I’m completely satisfied with my collection of “grandma bicycles” – or better omafiets. They get me around the city at a decent speed and there are usually spaces to safely lock my bike(s) when I proceed by foot. But Amsterdam is a cycle city, with plenty of bike parking (and/or canal bridges) to choose from. It’s… Read More Futuristic Peddle Power: Urban Cycle Innovations
The Urban Observer 