Purple Mountain rises on the northeast side of Nanjing, offering shade and sights for locals and tourists. The mountain stretches far and is impossible to explore fully in one day. Sights range from the mausoleum of Sun Yet Sen, the "Father of Modern China"; to the Beamless Hall, built in 1391 without using any wood in its construction; to the Ming Tombs and the impressive sacred way, an avenue of stone statutes; to the observatory; to a music stage; to a kayak and canoe slalom; to a one-hour-long cable car ride from top to bottom. In August, the place was busy on the weekend, but nearly empty on the weekday. The walk between entrances to the actual sites is deceiving; be prepared for a long one.... read more

QUESTIONS FROM AUNTIE CINDY Q: Are you the tallest person there? A: Often, yes, I am. Although the younger crowd seems to be taller than their parents. At the restaurant last night I spied a Chinese teenage boy who had to be over 6 feet. Wow. My light skin and blond hair seem to be what’s attracting attention the most tho. Q: Did you bring high-heeled shoes with you? A: No, I just brought my comfortable pair of walking shoes. But I often wish I had heels to avoid the puddles in the street - you just don’t know what the liquid really is. Q: Have you ridden in a rickshaw yet? A: Yes, we rode in a rickshaw my first day. Q:Can you rent a moped there? Will you put you and your baby’s life ... read more

SUNNY TODAY Ah, today we finally get to feel the sun on our skin. It feels so good. I’m rather upset that I’ve lost nearly all my tan over here. I’m looking pretty white. What a difference compared to when I was in Belize! While I mourn the lack of sun, when the sun finally comes out the Chinese women do everything they can to cover themselves up. They sell little shirts they can pull over their arms while on their mopeds. And they wear hats or carry umbrellas to keep the sun off their skin.To be as white as possible says that you’re not a peasant and don’t work in the fields. You are higher class. So much is about perception over here. BOAT RIDE I’m ready to hit the water. I can’t go water ... read more

EUROPEAN CITY IN CHINA It's time to leave Shanghai, this wild city of lights and excitement. Perhaps what I've noticed most about Shanghai is that I don't stand out as much. There are many, many nationalities in Shanghai. What's another white woman? It's nice to blend in again. Shanghai has seemed to drop many of the communist trappings Nanjing bends under. Buildings are newer and nicer. They lack the rundown look ever present in Nanjing. I am reminded of what Prague looked like 10 years ago shortly after getting out from under communist rule. There was such an air of neglect in the Czech Republic then. Buildings were dirty and decrepit. They hadn't been taken care of. This is how Nanjing looks, as well. Cheap hardware is used on the windows and to bolt up air ... read more

Determined to find a cheaper route across the Huangpu River than another 128 RMB taxi cab ride, I searched out the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel. The tunnel goes under water. You ride across in cars imported from France. A crazy light show entertains as you ride. It cost 50 RMB.... read more