Xi'an China

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We spent our last night in Hong Kong in the Soho district. We took the subway and then the travelator half way up the mountain to this trendy expat area of shops and restaurants. Wound our way down enjoying the walk and a great meal at a Nepalese restaurant called "Base Camp".

Enjoyed our last breakfast at the Excelsior and a walk in Victoria Park. The government has encouraged fitness by providing a jogging track, tennis courts, fitness stations and walking paths in this gorgeous park and many spend their mornings doing Marshall arts and Tai Chi. Fun for us to watch.

Afternoon flight to Xi'an arriving just before dark. After being in the spotlessly clean Hong Kong Xian comes as a bit of a shock! As darkness fell we passed dozens of apartments under construction. Between these were older buildings apparently being used but very little lighting. It felt like we had arrived in an abandoned city. Our hotel, the Sofitel Renmin was beautiful but cold. Xian is considered to be a second tier city so receives only limited government support. Lighting and heat are used sparingly Our guide Jasonlives in an apartment with no heat and the temp goes well below zero. We were constantly watched with staff out numbering us wherever we went. Xian is definitely "old" China.

Our only day in Xian started at nine with the trip to the big wild goose pagoda. We saw the buddhas, monks and many Chinese people praying and leaving gifts for the different Buddhas which represent what they are hoping for....wealth, longevity, happiness...Then off to see the terra cota soldiers. What an amazing discovery made by farmers digging a well in 1974. We could definitely see why this site is one of theseven wonders on the world!

An evening flight to Beijing to be met by our guide David. Beijing is definitely a first tier city....very cosmopolitan and modern. Our hotel, the Peninsula is truly amazing. David met us in the morning and we drove through wonderful farm land to the mountains and the Great Wall of China. The tram was closed for repairs so we went up via chair lift. Very exciting for Dave and his fear of heights. We walked a huge portion of the wall and were truly amazed by it. It was not too cold and sunny and clear so we could see for miles. We rode toboggans down in a sort of loge track which was fun. A great lunch and then home to use the pool and relax. We are totally waited on at every step. Luxury surrounds us.....Charlotte and I may never leave!

We had supper at a place called 1949 and sampled the famous roasted duck. It is carved at yout table and then eaten in crepe like fashion rolled like a wrap. Very delicious.

Can't believe we have only been here for five days!!! China is amazing and we have seen so many wonderful things. More later....

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