As a retiring Foreign Language Teacher in Florida, it was not possible for me to refuse a teaching-contract at Taizhou Normal (Teachers) College in Jiangsu Province, China for June 2006. This reality pre-occupies me as I leave Coral Gables Sr. H.S. every school day, and I know, I will truly miss the special people I am privileged to work with. The loss of my "students" after so many years will be irreplaceable, for how does one replace a "treasure". Maintaining this travel-blog is becoming a therapeutic exercise and provides personal encouragement. It also privides an avenue for my family, for friends, and my students past and present to follow an adventure. Perhaps it will provide some small entertainment for some and an opportunity for my personal reflection. Having visited China this past summer, and having ... read more

Thought I would continue my previous entry about my visit to China this past summer. No doubt, there are some of you who might consider a similar adventure, preparing to teach in China after retirement, and I would like to give as much encouragement as possible. I have heard from individuals, who are presently involved in teaching English in various places in China, and I have great appreciation for all of the commentary. Please keep the many comments coming, and feel free to quiz me on any of your thoughts and concerns. ..... My first day in China was filled with sights and sounds and smells that will never leave. The streets I travelled were not the China of Beijing or Shangai nor Hong Kong, but it was a "smaller" city of about 5 million, ... read more

2006 has officially arrived in Miami, Florida. As always, the weather is sunny and warm, perfect for the many tourists from around the world, all recovering from a strenuous night. But for me it is the official beginning of my travel and work plans to China. Within a few weeks I have to make the deposit for the Freighter ANL GEORGIA, where a few cabins are available for passenger-travel from the East Coast of the US via Panama Canal to Hong Kong, China. Because my teaching contract is for a year, I will now have to make visa arrangements with the China Cosulate in Houston, Tex. for the "extended" visa and present my teaching contract and letter of invitation from the Taizhou Normal College. A China- Visa-Agency in Ft. Lauderdale has notified me that some ... read more