May 4th, 2005
I, along with the tour group, spent the last morning in Beijing shopping. It was an easy morning where we could do what we wanted to do at our own pace. The only thing I needed was medicine for my allergies. The air in Beijing is not kind to those who suffer from allergies. Find the right medicine in a Chinese pharmacy was interesting but I finally saw names I was familiar with. Although they tried to sell me Ancient Chinese medicine, I stuck with what I knew. Not a time to try something new.
As we wandered around the shopping area, I realized that Beijing was not an overly attractive city. Although there were plenty of gardens and flowers, may of the buildings could use a fresh coat of paint. Outside of the historical attractions, there was very little character to Beijing. It will be interesting to see what they do to Beijing for the 2008 Olympics.
As Allan and I walked around, we noticed that some of the Chinese tourists visiting from other cities enjoyed coming up to us to practice their English. We had several people approach us while walking through the shopping square.
At the rear of the commercial shopping area, we found an area that looked a little less commercial and a little more local. We also found some interesting things to eat. I thought I was pretty brave about trying new things but the Scorpion Kabobs and Cicada cocoons were definitely on the “NOT” list along with skewered ducklings.
After shopping the tour group headed to lunch. As we did, someone asked if I knew that it was Allan’s birthday. I knew my travel wanted to keep this quiet and I debated whether I should honor his wishes or arrange something. I guess the cat was out of the bag. At lunch, we sang happy birthday and made Allan the Birthday King. The cake was real good – so good that I am hoping someone else to have a birthday during the trip.
Happy Birthday Allan!
After lunch it was off to Xian.
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