A bus is a large four wheeled vehicle meant to carry many passengers along with the driver. It is larger than a car. Buses are an important part of public transport in places all over the world. My English teacher has told me an interesting story about the name “bus”. They used to be called omnibuses, which means “for everyone” in Latin, but people now simply call them “buses”. 

Luckily, my house is located near one of five main biggest Hanoi bus station, so I can have a variety of ways to go across the city. Mostly, bus route 37 is the daily bus route for me. It is a typical old red and yellow Hanoi bus, whose colors represent Vietnamese flag. There are new buses that are painted with blue to create a more gentle, friendly image for people. Short-distance buses have a light green color.

The newest bus route to Noi Bai airport has also been put into use with an orange color that is very recognizable. All new bus models change the brand identity with the image of Khue Van Cac and pigeon, which are the iconic symbols of Hanoi – city of peace. There are new buses every 15 minutes in a route, so it is easy for citizens to catch a bus. They also build more and more bus stops in further regions, too. Facilities in buses are upgraded with speakers, free wifi and comfortable seats.

There are many reasons to choose a bus as daily transportation. First, traveling by bus is cheaper than any other means of transport. The cost of a bus ticket is 7,000 dong and a monthly bus ticket is 100,000 dong, while the cost for motorbike is at least 50,000 dong a week for fuel. I can travel to many locations within one ticket, while using motorbikes to further destinations means spending even more on petrol.

Second, going by bus is very convenient and comfortable. In rainy or freezing days, I can sit on the bus without worrying about dirt, mud splash or a cutting wind. In hot weather, the bus is air-conditioned to make us feel better. While going on a bus, I can take time to sleep, listen to music or review my lessons. Third, the bus is the best means to help reduce traffic jams and pollution. If many people travel by bus, private transportation is reduced, which leads to the reduction of traffic problems on the road. Also, fossil fuels are used less, and there is less exhaust. The earth can be saved as a result.

In conclusion, the bus is still my favorite transportation as it brings many benefits to not only myself but also the environment.