I had to traverse a lot of Beijing when I was there for the Olympics because my parents gave me a list of people to see, so I got very good at the subway. Sad to hear that the subway service has deteriorated since then... I was about to ask why you were taking the bus to the airport instead of the subway, but I guess that would be why?

Despite the smog and the taller people, things I like in Beijing: Beijing taxis are so awesome and fun to ride in! (So many good conversations with taxi drivers!!) Plus I love 北京酸奶, 饺子 和 羊肉串, so Beijing is pretty good for that! (Although the Sichuan stuff... eh. I wish Beijing would move on... it's been >5 years with "let's add spicy to everyhing!!!") I also have a fondness for the adorable shadow puppet place in Dashilar (大栅栏). Where are you living in Beijing?