Chinese New Year

Free Bar. When combined the two worst words in the English language. Last night was Chinese New Year, and we went to clud offering just that after an 11GBP cover charge. Whilst myself and Rick were reasonable merry and enjoying ourselves, Ross and Nick were a little more worst for wear. Jonny was taking full advantage of the free Vodka and Lime. One thing is for sure, the Chinese love new year.

In the time since my last blog we have been exploring Shanghai. On Tuesday explored one of the city's main market areas, much to everyone's approval. We also all chipped in for some speakers, which get the party going in the hostel room. We were hoping to bring the party to us, and hoped that maybe a few people would hear the pumping bass and come to the disco that is room 410, but so far this has not happened. We are still optomistic. On Tuesday night the nightly debate of Western Versus Chinese food arouse and we decided on all you can Tex-Mex which seemed a good choice. It was recommened by both of the guide books we had, unfortunately it was closed and after an hour looking for the place we went all out on Burger King. Uncultured you may say, however when you can buy 3 bacon cheese burgers and 2 fries plus a drink for 3 pounds why not? We decided to have Chinese the next night anyway.

An interesting night back at the hostel when at 11pm, we met some roudy Ukrainans. They loved their beer and were being a bit noisy. Some Chinese men were not very happy at this at all. So angry in fact that two of them decided to smash beer bottles on the floor. This is ten metres from our door, we heard this. I went outside to investigate to bascially find three Chinese guys threatening to kill 5 Ukrainans. I'm proud to say that I have found my future career as a peace talker, as I managed to cool the whole thing down, even when a third bottle was smashed. On hearing this Muc, Nick and Jonny all pulled their Jeans on and were ready in case it was thrown at me. But, I was warmly thanked by both parties for stopped anyone doing anything they might regret. Get me to Iraq.

Yesterday we went to the People's Square and for a quick Hotpot before going out in the evening. We bought three 600ml beers each for under a pound, the rectory take note, and headed out. The night is still clear in my mind, the highlight definately being AC/DC coming on in the club and every Chinese person knowing the words. Really strange. Jonny might have a less clear picture. I won't go into detail, but the maid was very nice about it and will probably recover soon.

Today we went to the top of the Pearl Tower, the one which looks like a rocket and then got some awesome photos of the Bund at Sunset. The views from the Tower were spectacular as it was such a clear day. We also took a stroll along the Bund as it was Chinese New Year's Day. The streets are busy with families and everyone is in a great mood. It doesn't matter what language you speak, smiles are universal. That sounds cheesy but its true. Today I felt great just because everyone did and vice versa.The Bund was packed and we were stopped at least 4 times by peopleto and asked to pose so they could take loads of pictures with groups of girls and us together, they seemed very excited about this, but no near how excited we were, it was like Papparazzi at some points. This did happen, this nothing to do with alcohol. I think they think we are some kind of boy-band or something, must be the haircuts and good looks!


J x

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