As the ferry snuggles up to the pier on Lamma Island, the sound of shoes replaces the drone of cars. It is generously quiet. The only cars around are the toys that children play with. And no cars means lots of safe space for kids. Clumps of jungle host hooting birds, moaning frogs, giant night snails and butterflies.
Handcarts haul heavy goods around.
Stores and restaurants are serviced by the four-wheeled trolleys which can handle a thousand pounds, no sweat. As the climate cooks and species disappear under pavement, it s a relief to know that without cars other things happen. We know it. We ve walked there, and it s magic. But even paradise has wrinkles.