The driver explained to me that our trip was going to take a lot longer than I had expected since so many of the roads were closed. When we arrived at the destination, I ended up having to pay more than the original fare because the driver had to take so many detours and use extra gas.
The first Ciclovía took place in 1974 during a one-day protest because people were fed up with the traffic and overcrowding of cars. Now, about two million people participate every week, riding or walking along a path that covers 127 km or 79 miles. Knowing there will be lots of people out and about, street vendors crowd the sidewalks to offer walkers and riders their products, ranging from foods, like mangobiche (unripe green mangos served with salt and sometimes other toppings, like fruity flavored syrups) and perritos calientes (hot dogs), to commercial items, like rain ponchos. The city always feels very alive on Sunday mornings.
This tradition significantly benefits environmental and public health! Because fewer people--almost two million fewer--are using their cars every Sunday, the tradition reduces the city's air and noise pollution and carbon emissions. The event also has a snowball effect for those who don't directly participate: because they know traffic will be worse, they might choose to take a bus or walk if it's more efficient, reducing emissions further. In addition, the Ciclovía encourages people to get out and be active!
