HAINING, China: Chinese are trying to help make their train trips home a little more comfortable. About 200 m people in the country are expected to take trains home for the New Year’s holiday at the weekend. Some opt for standing-only tickets on packed trains to save money. This year, Chinese microblogs have been abuzz with gadgets and inventions that could help make grueling journeys a little easier. One of the most talked-about is the “Hard Seat Treasure”, a metal pole with pads attached that is meant to prop up a sleepy traveller and ensure he or she does not fall out of their seat when they nod off. One blogger suggested taking along a squawking rubber chicken to make other passengers get out of the way in crowded aisles. But the most popular accessory remains a simple plastic bucket that can be turned over and used as a seat, or for other purposes.
