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We arrived last yesterday afternoon; everything was quick and efficient--all luggage and tour guides at the airport in a snap. I survived steerage to China on United Airlines but missed my chance at an upgrade because the agent was so harried--at 5AM. I arrived with a terrible headache and a very sick stomach but am glad to report all is resolved with a good night's sleep and an excellent breakfast.
The Debao Hotel is quite lovely--glamorous even. I missed dinner out with the group, as I chose to stay in and stay still. My initial impression of Beijing is similar to West Texas in a terrible sand storm. The city is covered with a haze from pollution that make the light look like early morning beige all the time, and it smells like the refineries in El Paso. I'm sure my impression will change as I have a chance to be out and around more today and tomorrow. We have lectures this morning and a walking tour this afternoon.
Tomorrow we are scheduled to go to the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs. I am looking forward to seeing it--it seems impossible that I am even here!
M
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carole
non-member comment
glad you're there
Hey, I had a note almost finished when the kids and Anne and Jason came by. Somehow it disappeared, so I'll be brief. I just realized, too, that others can read these notes so it's just as well. Don't want to bore others with details from home, nor do I want to bore you. I hope your experience is wonderful. Are the clay soldiers at the Ming Tombs? I know they were one of the attractions you really wanted to see. I haven't seen much of Georgia because I spent the week with Caroline and Carter. I hope you're fully recovered from your jet lag, etc. I'll try to get some walking in while you're gone.