Hamburg, Germany
April 2008
I was very intrigued the first time I stood at a crossing and saw the traffic light. Two “red men” instead of one? Is it because they’re afraid the Hamburgers ( I mean the people of Hamburg of course) don’t understand the meaning of “stop” that it needs to be repeated? Or that psychologists have found out that people need to be reminded twice before an action is taken? Or that they forgot to add the amber lights for pedestrians?
I had to find out and asked my CouchSurfing host the rationale behind having two “red men” instead of one. Her answer? In case one gets spoilt. Then went on to qualify that she’s just making a guess.
I suppose even the locals have no idea why two is better than one. Do you?
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Every photograph we take contains a story, but we often do not spend enough time sharing that story with others. Hence, Foto Friday was born to give some recognition to these forgotten photographs and the memories they hold. Taken over many trips (2004-present) using the author’s crappy cameras and whatever minimal photography skills she has, these photographs serve to give you a little insight into the author’s travels. And if you haven’t realised by now, they’ll be out on Fridays.
1 comment
Sergey says:
Feb 5, 2012
I had exactly the same question and I asked it every time I’ve been to Hamburg for several years and you know what? This week I got e-mail from my colleague who was asked the same question and finally I got an answer! It’s interesting how life can change if you ask the right questions :))) To better understand the story take into consideration that my name is Sergey and I’m from Russia, Moscow.
Here is the quote from that e-mail:
“After you have asked the question why traffic lights for pedestrians have three lights (2 are red and 1 is green) I have got in contact with the ministry of transport and said: “Hey, Sergey came to Hamburg and asked some funny questions about traffic lights.” And I have added: “Why do you install traffic lights with 3 lamps?!? That makes no sense at all !!!”
“Ooooh, that’s a good question” said the minister and made the announcement that all traffic lights have to be changed within the new future.
And look at the results: They have installed new lights. Wow, what a great invention.
– Now the minister is glad, because he has improved the performance in Germany.
– Some companies can produce some new products and increase their .
– The citizens of Hamburg have witnessed some major changes in their lives – something that happens max. once in a livetime
– And the most important thing: Finally I’ve got an answer to your question”