The Summer Palace

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Having been lulled into a false sense of security by yesterday's relatively high temperature, I ventured out today without my thermal base layers. And what a mistake that was; it was unbelievably freezing! Unfortunately, we didn't figure this out until we were halfway to the Summer Palace before, and as it's the other end of the city, there was no turning back. But despite almost losing all of my limbs to frost bite, it was a really good day! The sun was shining for most of it, and the Summer Palace is beautiful, with all these temples and shrines scattered through the woodland and near the lake. As the lake was completely iced over, there were no boats running, so we wandered around all these little meandering paths taking lots of photos which I'll hopefully get to load onto the travelblog.

I'm also proud of the fact that we have figured out the Beijing subway system, and it's so cheap! 20p a ride, and that includes all transfers! Food is also really cheap - had a plate of tofu and beancurd cooked in a spicy sauce for one pound fifty for my tea tonight. So hopefully the funds will last...

Anyway, I'm going to try to load some photos now! I would write more, but there is only one free computer in the hostel and there's always at least one person watching it like a vulture, waiting to pounce, so I'll sign off soon. Hope everyone is well back home!

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Comments

[Stella Rowley]

great photos
Hi Ceri Great Photos of the Summer Palace. I would love to do one of these in watercolours when you get back. Will pass this on to Paul tonight. Wrap up nice and warm. Take care Stella

[Mum]

Wish I was there
Loving all ur pics - just wish I was there with u whether its cold or not. Looks like ur having a great time Love Mum

[Dad]

Summer?
Should be called winter palace

[Qudsia]

wheres ur duck?
did ur rubber duck not go wiv u to summer palace? he/she doesnt seem to be in any of ur pics...hope u didnt leav him/her behind! have fun! btw....its 3.25 am...iv jus woken up early to revise for todays exam...didnt feel like id done enough revision, so woke up early to do some final bits before the exam!