To see more photos go to my Facebook group China group
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| Shanghai at night |
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| Shanghai |
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| The three Amigos!!! |
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| Two little boys that fell in love with me during lunch.... they were very curious about the hairy white guy. |
Friday, May 18, 2012
Some Pictures
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Uke and Rscal
The boys were so happy to have us home again. Rascal collapsed at my feet after several minutes of not knowing what to do. They were so excited to see despite being 4:00AM..... Yes in the freaking morning.
Uke's skin is in horrible shape. We took him to the vet today. They are going to consult with a specialist in Montreal. Poor boy is a mess.
Mowed and fertilized the lawn. Next I try to post some photos.
Uke's skin is in horrible shape. We took him to the vet today. They are going to consult with a specialist in Montreal. Poor boy is a mess.
Mowed and fertilized the lawn. Next I try to post some photos.
Monday, May 14, 2012
We have landed in Halifax but cabs
It's 2:40 and we stand at the Halifax arrivals with no taxi's in sight. The last two flights cleaned up. We have to wait for them to return from Halifax, probably 30 minutes to an hour.
We didn't want family to have to come out here at this late hour so we told them not to bother to come out.
So close yet so far.
We didn't want family to have to come out here at this late hour so we told them not to bother to come out.
So close yet so far.
Have landed in TO
Back in the land of non-squatting toilets. We have landed in Toronto and no has bothered us to buy anything yet... Feels strange.
What a fantastic trip we had. Filled with wonderful culture, history, adventure and excitement. We made good friends and had a blast. Partly sad it's over but as I stand at customs in TO I am glad to be back to my beautifully simplistic Canada.
What a fantastic trip we had. Filled with wonderful culture, history, adventure and excitement. We made good friends and had a blast. Partly sad it's over but as I stand at customs in TO I am glad to be back to my beautifully simplistic Canada.
Sleepy boy
Dear God I have slept 9 hours on this stupid flight. An hour away from Toronto. Come on Halifax!!!
14 hour return flight
God what a horribly long flight. Had supper. It's 9:04 now so I'm getting ready for a nap. Gotta try to get 3 or 4 hours sleep. Can't wait to get home
Through Security in Shanghai
Just waiting for the flight and having lunch. Took this of Johanne with my iPhone. 
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Waiting to go home
We checked out of our room and are waiting for the bus. Now for the 23 hours of travel to get home. I can't wait to see everyone and be with my boys. We are excited to go right now.
Clarence is really sick, not sure if it's too much to drink or a food allergy. He really didn't drink enough to warrant being so sick... What a way to travel.
Clarence is really sick, not sure if it's too much to drink or a food allergy. He really didn't drink enough to warrant being so sick... What a way to travel.
Free Market
We walked to the free market this morning. There is a reason it's called the free market... It's a free-for-all.... Every shop keeper screaming, "Hello.... You come in!" "cheap for you" or "give you best price!".
This is a land of the Capitalist Scalper. They will gouge and dig and scratch for your last dollar. I however am actually coming with money. Virtually unheard of with any other trip we have been on. Usually our trips go way over budget.
I hate saying anything negative, but the the people here have an ego centric moral compass. No one here in traffic would let you merge, pedestrians are canon fodder, queuing lines are just suggestions.... The aggressive move forward, the polite get trampled in the dirt or taken advantage of.
In the market I am the bargaining king. I was haggling like crazy. I pissed off a lot of people as I would go "to expensive" and slowly walk away. Hahahaha it was fun but it stresses most tourists out of their minds.
This is a land of the Capitalist Scalper. They will gouge and dig and scratch for your last dollar. I however am actually coming with money. Virtually unheard of with any other trip we have been on. Usually our trips go way over budget.
I hate saying anything negative, but the the people here have an ego centric moral compass. No one here in traffic would let you merge, pedestrians are canon fodder, queuing lines are just suggestions.... The aggressive move forward, the polite get trampled in the dirt or taken advantage of.
In the market I am the bargaining king. I was haggling like crazy. I pissed off a lot of people as I would go "to expensive" and slowly walk away. Hahahaha it was fun but it stresses most tourists out of their minds.
Chinese Doctor
We to experience Chinese medicine tourist style. It was a real scam. They told you that you had all kinds of problems and recommended expensive herbal remedies.
They took everyone in the group except Clarence,Susan,Johanne and I. It was pretty sleazy... Can you guess how much herbal shit I bought?
Still it was pretty amusing over all.
They took everyone in the group except Clarence,Susan,Johanne and I. It was pretty sleazy... Can you guess how much herbal shit I bought?
Still it was pretty amusing over all.
Cruise
We took a night cruise on the river in Shanghai. My god it was magnificent, the skyscrapers all lot up some with LEDs displaying video clips. It was so beautiful.
We had our first drop Of rain today. But it was really just drizzle.
We stayed up drinking $11 beer last night. It was a fun night but expensive.
Looking forward to going home.
We had our first drop Of rain today. But it was really just drizzle.
We stayed up drinking $11 beer last night. It was a fun night but expensive.
Looking forward to going home.
Lost my Under Armour hat
I lost my Under Armour hat and bitched and whined about it to everyone as a joke. "oh you have water but lost my hat!".
Clarence was riding me hard saying things like, "at least least I didn't lose my hat."
This morning I found my packed in my suitcase Hahahaha. Hat found. So now I end everything with, "at least I have my hat!"
I still want to buy a Chairman Mou hat
Clarence was riding me hard saying things like, "at least least I didn't lose my hat."
This morning I found my packed in my suitcase Hahahaha. Hat found. So now I end everything with, "at least I have my hat!"
I still want to buy a Chairman Mou hat
Silk Factory
We went to a silk factory and saw how the farm silk. It's crazy. One worm spins out a single thread over 2km long. If two worms pair up ( and sometimes they are not compatible and won't pair up.... Like people) the each spit out a thread but it's braided. This is the stuff they make bullet proof vests and parachutes from... It so dense.
They took a cocoon from a paired seton worms and pulled it over a metal frame. It was very stretchy but you could not poke your finger through it. It was pretty neat.
Needless to say they then tried sell us silk comforters and Covers. They were beautiful but we didn't bite. We went upstairs and looked at scarfs and stuff. We did buy a few cheap souvenirs.
They took a cocoon from a paired seton worms and pulled it over a metal frame. It was very stretchy but you could not poke your finger through it. It was pretty neat.
Needless to say they then tried sell us silk comforters and Covers. They were beautiful but we didn't bite. We went upstairs and looked at scarfs and stuff. We did buy a few cheap souvenirs.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Happy Mothers day
Happy Mother's Day... Although back home it's still Saturday night.... Uuhhh hard to get your head around it.
Way to much Tsing Tao
Oh lord..... We were at the bar last night and got into it heavier than we should have. The beer here is fairly light but good. It goes down way to easy.
The room last night was out of this world. Beautiful. Beds are really firm though I would even go so far as saying they are hard. When you sit on it it doesn't budge.
The room last night was out of this world. Beautiful. Beds are really firm though I would even go so far as saying they are hard. When you sit on it it doesn't budge.
Rock Stars
We climbed to the top of a tower over looking China's largest lake.
Some kids showed up on a school trip and were really curious about us and our Holland friend Gelf threw his arms up in the air and yelled " aaahhhhhh" in an inviting manner. I joined in and the kids rushed the two of us, hugging us and shaking our hands and posing with us for pictures. It was another magical moment. Johanne caught our crazy antics on video. Can't wait to see it.
The view on top of the tower was spectacular. 360 degrees.
Some kids showed up on a school trip and were really curious about us and our Holland friend Gelf threw his arms up in the air and yelled " aaahhhhhh" in an inviting manner. I joined in and the kids rushed the two of us, hugging us and shaking our hands and posing with us for pictures. It was another magical moment. Johanne caught our crazy antics on video. Can't wait to see it.
The view on top of the tower was spectacular. 360 degrees.
Wuxi
Wuxi is a mir 6 million people. Just tiny. Everything in China is built up..... Really up. It's incredible how high all the buildings are.
We got up at 5:45am and had another great breakfast buffet. Tons of stuff. I expect Johanne to keep this up when we get home.
We went to an ancient local big guy's house, it was 400 years old.... it was pretty cool. I think I'm maxed out on information now there's been so much coming in I've probably forgotten how to drive.... My brain needs to make room for all this stuff.
We then went to a pearl manufacturer. Johanne bought a nice necklace for $30. Probably buy it for $15 at Walmart Hahahaha. They farm the pearls from fresh water clams. Each contains 10-40 pearls. Most are 10-30 years old and 85% are rejected and crushed and used for medicinal purposes.
We got up at 5:45am and had another great breakfast buffet. Tons of stuff. I expect Johanne to keep this up when we get home.
We went to an ancient local big guy's house, it was 400 years old.... it was pretty cool. I think I'm maxed out on information now there's been so much coming in I've probably forgotten how to drive.... My brain needs to make room for all this stuff.
We then went to a pearl manufacturer. Johanne bought a nice necklace for $30. Probably buy it for $15 at Walmart Hahahaha. They farm the pearls from fresh water clams. Each contains 10-40 pearls. Most are 10-30 years old and 85% are rejected and crushed and used for medicinal purposes.
Tea Pot
We went to a tea pot museum they called it. But it was more of a tea pot NSCAD. The pots were hand made and extremely unique and beautiful. Once again we never bought anything. Cheap bastards. The pressure was on to buy though.
Once outside there was a free market. I bought two packages of Chopsticks for 15Yuan ($2.25) and told Clarence I paid 18Yuan. He and I have been in a competition to buy stuff cheaper then the other guy. I knew he would shoot for 15 if I told him 18. As soon as I told him about the chopsticks he went running like a mad man. Haggling with the locals.
He was so proud when he came back with his purchase two packs for 15 Yuan. I laughed and told him it was a tie and that i suckered him and he didn't even want chopsticks.
Once outside there was a free market. I bought two packages of Chopsticks for 15Yuan ($2.25) and told Clarence I paid 18Yuan. He and I have been in a competition to buy stuff cheaper then the other guy. I knew he would shoot for 15 if I told him 18. As soon as I told him about the chopsticks he went running like a mad man. Haggling with the locals.
He was so proud when he came back with his purchase two packs for 15 Yuan. I laughed and told him it was a tie and that i suckered him and he didn't even want chopsticks.
Lunch for a Rock Star
We stopped for lunch and when we entered the restaurant there were two boys about 5 years old on a small stage singing happy birthday to someone in there family. I started singing too and celebrated loud when they finished.
During lunch they came back and forth looking for my attention asking questions in Mandarin. One of our table mates speaks Mandarin and translated for me. They were very curious about me and thought I was quite hairy Hahahahaha.
They gave me high fives and were running back and forth. They sure were wound up. I had several photos with them. It was pretty cute.
Two of the guys at our table bought turtle soup and shared it us, very yummy meat.
During lunch they came back and forth looking for my attention asking questions in Mandarin. One of our table mates speaks Mandarin and translated for me. They were very curious about me and thought I was quite hairy Hahahahaha.
They gave me high fives and were running back and forth. They sure were wound up. I had several photos with them. It was pretty cute.
Two of the guys at our table bought turtle soup and shared it us, very yummy meat.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Blog
I sure hope my blog is getting through. Thanks for the comments. I can't confirm it's working because it's blocked here in China. But obviously the app is able to post the blogs... I just can't check it. Facebook is dead here along with a tone of sites.
Stayed at another beautiful hotel. Sat at the bar last night and had several beer and shot the shit with our Holland friends.
Clarence was unable to join us he must have eaten something with peanuts and was sick on the bus. Not throwing up but on the edge. He was really feeling crappy.
Stayed at another beautiful hotel. Sat at the bar last night and had several beer and shot the shit with our Holland friends.
Clarence was unable to join us he must have eaten something with peanuts and was sick on the bus. Not throwing up but on the edge. He was really feeling crappy.
Wuzhen Watertown
We went to Wuzhen which was about a two hour drive. Unfortunately we got stuck in a massive traffic jam. Locals in other buses, vehicle and even on the street were waving and giving peace signs to us. It was pretty cool. We sure stick out like sore thumbs here.
Wuzhen is like a really small cheap Venice. Locals make cotton and dye it. It's a pretty neat process. We didn't buy anything. We took a gondola like boat ride and strolled through town it was rushed because we were so late. It was pretty cool looking in through open doors and watching the locals watch us. One gentleman watching us was 96.
Most places seem to have it in there heads that $40 to us is nothing so that is the bare minimum. They set the price based on what they think tourists might pay rather than what it's worth locally. I love to haggle with the locals over price but I won't get ripped off, the key is to pretend you don't care about the object..... It's tough when Johanne is freaking out for me to buy it.
We see the same package of ten chopsticks individually wrapped ranging anywhere from 10RMB to 30RMB. Three times difference for the same thing and people have been buying for 5 and are still likely getting ripped. But it's only $1 to us so why fuss Hahahaha it's the game here.
Wuzhen is like a really small cheap Venice. Locals make cotton and dye it. It's a pretty neat process. We didn't buy anything. We took a gondola like boat ride and strolled through town it was rushed because we were so late. It was pretty cool looking in through open doors and watching the locals watch us. One gentleman watching us was 96.
Most places seem to have it in there heads that $40 to us is nothing so that is the bare minimum. They set the price based on what they think tourists might pay rather than what it's worth locally. I love to haggle with the locals over price but I won't get ripped off, the key is to pretend you don't care about the object..... It's tough when Johanne is freaking out for me to buy it.
We see the same package of ten chopsticks individually wrapped ranging anywhere from 10RMB to 30RMB. Three times difference for the same thing and people have been buying for 5 and are still likely getting ripped. But it's only $1 to us so why fuss Hahahaha it's the game here.
Lack of Photographs
Sorry about the lack of photos. I am shooting hundred of photographs with Canon 50D but by the time I get back to the hotel I am so exhausted I just can't muster the energy to transfer them to my Android. I will certainly upload a bunch after we get back so subscribe to this blog and get notified when I do.
I think I have taken about 1500 shots so far. It will be tough to sift through. I have some amazing shots of people playing Chines Checkers, biking, or just walking or sleeping. Everywhere you turn there's an opportunity. I struggling with the balance between annoying the group and getting the shot from my constant running off for a quick shot here and there. I certainly don't make anyone wait for me and am never late, but I always want to know what's around the next corner. I got that from Dad for sure. But Clarence, Susan and Johanne like to push too seeing what's over there and doing extra walking to explore the next turn despite sore tired legs.
I think I have taken about 1500 shots so far. It will be tough to sift through. I have some amazing shots of people playing Chines Checkers, biking, or just walking or sleeping. Everywhere you turn there's an opportunity. I struggling with the balance between annoying the group and getting the shot from my constant running off for a quick shot here and there. I certainly don't make anyone wait for me and am never late, but I always want to know what's around the next corner. I got that from Dad for sure. But Clarence, Susan and Johanne like to push too seeing what's over there and doing extra walking to explore the next turn despite sore tired legs.
Another amazing lunch
We had another great meal. I ate chicken head and feet.... Not really, I just sucked the juice from the head and ate the skin from the feet... Johanne took a picture of me eating it. Hahahaha
They had a spicy fish soup along with the other 6 or 7 dishes that was incredible. I ate so much soup I had to cut back on my beer Hahahaha it must have been good.
We sure miss our two boys..... Oh and Dannielle and family..... But really miss the dogs Hahahaha
We are on the bus for an hour and half to our next location Wuxi. The time sure is flying by.
I had to laugh because we were just in A small Chinese city... Population 8.4 million people...., just a town really. Shanghai has 20million people, one city here has 32 million people, more than Canada. Shanghai will be our last stop.
They had a spicy fish soup along with the other 6 or 7 dishes that was incredible. I ate so much soup I had to cut back on my beer Hahahaha it must have been good.
We sure miss our two boys..... Oh and Dannielle and family..... But really miss the dogs Hahahaha
We are on the bus for an hour and half to our next location Wuxi. The time sure is flying by.
I had to laugh because we were just in A small Chinese city... Population 8.4 million people...., just a town really. Shanghai has 20million people, one city here has 32 million people, more than Canada. Shanghai will be our last stop.
Tea Platantion
This entire trip is sponsored by the Communist Party of China in hopes they would make money from the tourists. They haven't made anything from Johanne and I so far. If they were apart they would take us in a brewery tour Hahahaha
We went to a tea plantation, it was fascinating but not my cup of tea. They really have done their marketing well here. One young guy came out to the bus saying, " Jesus I just bought $300 worth of tea.... How did that happen!". I am glad I did lots of research before we left so that I knew what to look for and not make impulse decisions.
Don't get me wrong I love our tour guide for this part of the journey. Lulu is a wealth of knowledge but a true communist and not shy about. There have been a few lectures and stories that leave a sour taste in your mouth. But it's a cultural thing and that's what I love to do us immerse myself in the culture and beliefs of others, I don't have to agree with it, I may even question them on it but I m here for the experience. It becomes very intriguing to me and I just want hear more but too much and I just tune here out.
This GD bus we are is a piece of shit by our standards. It's not bad but it desperately needs springs and skewers and bounces everywhere. The noise makes it hard to hear Lulu most of the time.
We went to a tea plantation, it was fascinating but not my cup of tea. They really have done their marketing well here. One young guy came out to the bus saying, " Jesus I just bought $300 worth of tea.... How did that happen!". I am glad I did lots of research before we left so that I knew what to look for and not make impulse decisions.
Don't get me wrong I love our tour guide for this part of the journey. Lulu is a wealth of knowledge but a true communist and not shy about. There have been a few lectures and stories that leave a sour taste in your mouth. But it's a cultural thing and that's what I love to do us immerse myself in the culture and beliefs of others, I don't have to agree with it, I may even question them on it but I m here for the experience. It becomes very intriguing to me and I just want hear more but too much and I just tune here out.
This GD bus we are is a piece of shit by our standards. It's not bad but it desperately needs springs and skewers and bounces everywhere. The noise makes it hard to hear Lulu most of the time.
Passport Found
I guess the guy's passport was still in the photocopier, not good but at least it was found. It took about 20 minutes.
We went through a crazy crowded park. Unbelievable how many people there were. We took a boat around the the lake. China has from day one a heavy foggy smoggy mist. Never a blue sky to be seen, just smog that never goes away. It made the cruise kind of wild because the lake just disappeared in it and the shore was ghost like.
Our Friends from Holland now lifing in Paris Ontario are funny. Despite the thousands of people you can always pick out Gelf's bald head on his 6.5 foot frame no matter how far away he is. He and I are always on the Beet run at at the restaurants.
On lake we walked to an ancient Buddhist Temple. It was something else. The rebuilt temple (on top of the old one to protect it) was several stories high on a mountain. We walked to the top, the view was incredible you could see Hangzhou through the white haze :-).
We went through a crazy crowded park. Unbelievable how many people there were. We took a boat around the the lake. China has from day one a heavy foggy smoggy mist. Never a blue sky to be seen, just smog that never goes away. It made the cruise kind of wild because the lake just disappeared in it and the shore was ghost like.
Our Friends from Holland now lifing in Paris Ontario are funny. Despite the thousands of people you can always pick out Gelf's bald head on his 6.5 foot frame no matter how far away he is. He and I are always on the Beet run at at the restaurants.
On lake we walked to an ancient Buddhist Temple. It was something else. The rebuilt temple (on top of the old one to protect it) was several stories high on a mountain. We walked to the top, the view was incredible you could see Hangzhou through the white haze :-).
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Delayed
We are on the bus but delayed outside the hotel. Every night we must turn over our passport to the hotel. It's law here. One of the guys on our bus his passport is missing and they are desperately trying to find it. Not good.
Today we visit a tea plantation and do a river cruise. I hope the delay doesn't come off the cruise. I know it won't come off the shopping time.
Today we visit a tea plantation and do a river cruise. I hope the delay doesn't come off the cruise. I know it won't come off the shopping time.
Another great supper
We hit a restaurant that was like a park, complete with koi ponds and bridges. We had a buffet and there was a ton of stuff. I love Kimchi, it's Korean fermented cabbage, they had Kimchi soup that was amazing. I really enjoyed it.
Some of our group went to a Chinese play with music and dance. It was an additional $60 Canadian. We decided not to partake and instead stroll around and sit on the bus, so here we are.
I spent a lot of time watching the bats chase bugs in the parking lot. They were the largest bats I have ever seen. One was bigger than a large squirrel there were a lot of them swooping around.
Some of our group went to a Chinese play with music and dance. It was an additional $60 Canadian. We decided not to partake and instead stroll around and sit on the bus, so here we are.
I spent a lot of time watching the bats chase bugs in the parking lot. They were the largest bats I have ever seen. One was bigger than a large squirrel there were a lot of them swooping around.
A Dogs Life
We have seen a lot of dogs here but all small breeds. A lot of miniature Schnauzers and such. I have only seen one 50+ pound dog and that was a Dalmatian.
Because people here live in apartments mostly they only have small breed dogs. At the park near the Nanjing City wall there was a lot of people out walking their dogs. I loved it and took a few shots of people feeding or grooming their dogs.
Johanne was taking a picture of me at the wall and I was on my knees when a baby about 2 years old came hobbling over into my arms. It was a magical moment as he huged me and I hugged him. I made eye contact with his mom who just smiled and in a blink of an eye with out any language spoken I knew she was fine with it and I had my picture taken with him. It was a very special moment for me, one I will never forget. We start out in this world with no discrimination, bigotry, religion, or ideology.... We learn to hate... I wish the whole world could have experienced that moment with me.
Because people here live in apartments mostly they only have small breed dogs. At the park near the Nanjing City wall there was a lot of people out walking their dogs. I loved it and took a few shots of people feeding or grooming their dogs.
Johanne was taking a picture of me at the wall and I was on my knees when a baby about 2 years old came hobbling over into my arms. It was a magical moment as he huged me and I hugged him. I made eye contact with his mom who just smiled and in a blink of an eye with out any language spoken I knew she was fine with it and I had my picture taken with him. It was a very special moment for me, one I will never forget. We start out in this world with no discrimination, bigotry, religion, or ideology.... We learn to hate... I wish the whole world could have experienced that moment with me.
Hangzhou Here We Come
I sure do miss everyone. I also pray my boys are being good for Johanne's Dad and mine.
We visited another Jade Factory this morning, my wallet is sealed tight though. Hahahahaha jade is very important to the Chinese and to the Chinese visitors from Canada an important part of the trip, but not so much for us.
We had another amazing lunch, I may have drank too much beer for the three hour ride though.,,, mmmmmm beer. The beer here is amazing. It's fairly light beer over all. We had some Rice wine last night 56% alcohol. Yuck it tasted like shit...... I finished mine and Johanne's. Added to the beer chaser and I was doing great... Would expect anything less from me. :-))
We visited another Jade Factory this morning, my wallet is sealed tight though. Hahahahaha jade is very important to the Chinese and to the Chinese visitors from Canada an important part of the trip, but not so much for us.
We had another amazing lunch, I may have drank too much beer for the three hour ride though.,,, mmmmmm beer. The beer here is amazing. It's fairly light beer over all. We had some Rice wine last night 56% alcohol. Yuck it tasted like shit...... I finished mine and Johanne's. Added to the beer chaser and I was doing great... Would expect anything less from me. :-))
Kung fu Show
Last night we went to see "The Legend of Kung Fu".... A Chinese play about Kung Fu.... Not martial arts but more of a play but the acrobatics and stunts were incredible. I enjoyed it. It was a nice hour for sure.
I can't get over the meals we have been served. Tons of food and lots of variety. I think Clarence is able to juggle his Silliac disease and find things to eat. I have been a pig of experimentation. I'll try anything from duck tongues to what ever they put down. Most of it I like I have to say but the food has been great.
I can't get over the meals we have been served. Tons of food and lots of variety. I think Clarence is able to juggle his Silliac disease and find things to eat. I have been a pig of experimentation. I'll try anything from duck tongues to what ever they put down. Most of it I like I have to say but the food has been great.
Nanjing City Wall
We Visited the Nanzing City Wall. It's a huge wall that surrounds the entire city. It still contains the original bricks built during the Ming Dynasty. Still fully intact and not rebuilt.
Apparently the Emperor ordered a hundred thousand brick layers and ordered them to put their name and address on every brick. So that if the wall had a weak spot he knew who to blame. Punishment was death. But most of the brick layers could not write their own names so he ordered 20,000 carvers to do the work on each brick. You can still see the names and addresses on the bricks. Now it wasn't chiseled into the stone, it was done as a relief, the lettering is raised making this way more complicated. The wall took 16 years to build.
The Emperor really thought it was impenetrable until his nine year old son pointed something out. As a result of the boys comment his father wanted the boy killed. Ask me when I get home the rest of the story. It's quite interesting what the Emperor misjudged and how the escaped death and what became of him.
Apparently the Emperor ordered a hundred thousand brick layers and ordered them to put their name and address on every brick. So that if the wall had a weak spot he knew who to blame. Punishment was death. But most of the brick layers could not write their own names so he ordered 20,000 carvers to do the work on each brick. You can still see the names and addresses on the bricks. Now it wasn't chiseled into the stone, it was done as a relief, the lettering is raised making this way more complicated. The wall took 16 years to build.
The Emperor really thought it was impenetrable until his nine year old son pointed something out. As a result of the boys comment his father wanted the boy killed. Ask me when I get home the rest of the story. It's quite interesting what the Emperor misjudged and how the escaped death and what became of him.
Nanjing
We got up at 6:00am there was a cool breeze this morning before the heat hit. It was refreshing. I hated leaving that beautiful hotel.
We visited the Yangtze River and bridge. The bridge we went too was quite famous because it was the first built by the Chinese to span the mighty Yangtze. The river is very wide, very deep and very silty. It was three levels, 80 meters into the river, 9 pillars and took ten years to build. Some 500 people lost their lives making just the pillars. The workers built it for free, just getting two meals a day and a place to sleep. It became a national pride issue because the Americans said it couldn't be done, the Russians started the project but after bad relations pulled out and said the Chinese could never build it on their own. But they sure did.
At the bridge the had a master painter who painted amazingly detailed scenes from the inside of bottles and globes. It was spectacular. We actually saw him in action. Crazy talent.
Yesterday we visited the Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum it was the one with a zillion steps.
We visited the Yangtze River and bridge. The bridge we went too was quite famous because it was the first built by the Chinese to span the mighty Yangtze. The river is very wide, very deep and very silty. It was three levels, 80 meters into the river, 9 pillars and took ten years to build. Some 500 people lost their lives making just the pillars. The workers built it for free, just getting two meals a day and a place to sleep. It became a national pride issue because the Americans said it couldn't be done, the Russians started the project but after bad relations pulled out and said the Chinese could never build it on their own. But they sure did.
At the bridge the had a master painter who painted amazingly detailed scenes from the inside of bottles and globes. It was spectacular. We actually saw him in action. Crazy talent.
Yesterday we visited the Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum it was the one with a zillion steps.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Nanjing
Has another amazing supper. With lots of authentic cuisine. There are usually 5 or 6 different dishes server with beer. Beer is cheaper than pop so twist me rubber arm Hahahahaha
We sat down in the lounge and had a few beers. We are staying at a magnificent Hilton Hotel it is beyond impressive. In fact it's likely one of the best hotels I have ever stayed at. Amazing. I could live here.
We sat down in the lounge and had a few beers. We are staying at a magnificent Hilton Hotel it is beyond impressive. In fact it's likely one of the best hotels I have ever stayed at. Amazing. I could live here.
Welcome Nanjing
We landed in Nanjing and left the airport touring right away. We visited several beautiful places. One was the burial site of the founding father of the country. The 392 steps to the top in 35 degree heat with sore calf muscles was fun. Hahahaha
We were asked maybe 15 times by locals to have a picture with us. They really love Johanne. Every 5 minutes someone was asking to take a picture with us. It has been so much fun. The older people look at us with a strange curiosity while the young come up and test their English and get their photos with us.
Our new guides are awesome but we were read the riot act of rules. There was a weird awkward lecture about Stephen Harper greeting the Dali Lama and some strange political speeches. Everyone was polite like Canadians and didn't say anything only to discuss it privately later.
We were asked maybe 15 times by locals to have a picture with us. They really love Johanne. Every 5 minutes someone was asking to take a picture with us. It has been so much fun. The older people look at us with a strange curiosity while the young come up and test their English and get their photos with us.
Our new guides are awesome but we were read the riot act of rules. There was a weird awkward lecture about Stephen Harper greeting the Dali Lama and some strange political speeches. Everyone was polite like Canadians and didn't say anything only to discuss it privately later.
Good bye Beijing
On our way to the airport to leave Beijing and fly to Hangzhou, paradise city of the world. Not sure what to expect. We land and hit ground touring.
I will miss Beijing and its beautiful people and rich culture. I will miss our guide Nelson who leaves us at the airport. I won't miss the smog although I'm sure there will be smog where we are headed.
When I was in China in the early '90's I was amazed at the amount of motorcycles and lack of cars. Now it's the other way around. They stopped issuing motorcycle licenses back in the early 90's to help clean up Beijing.
I am also amazed at how much Fungshway (????) is used here. People are still very superstitious and use many different traditions to bring luck and things. It was fascinating. And I loved hearing all the stories.
Beijing is an unbelievable city everyone should take a trip here. You will love it!!! I know I have.
I will miss Beijing and its beautiful people and rich culture. I will miss our guide Nelson who leaves us at the airport. I won't miss the smog although I'm sure there will be smog where we are headed.
When I was in China in the early '90's I was amazed at the amount of motorcycles and lack of cars. Now it's the other way around. They stopped issuing motorcycle licenses back in the early 90's to help clean up Beijing.
I am also amazed at how much Fungshway (????) is used here. People are still very superstitious and use many different traditions to bring luck and things. It was fascinating. And I loved hearing all the stories.
Beijing is an unbelievable city everyone should take a trip here. You will love it!!! I know I have.
Roast Duck
We went to visit one of the city gates of Beijing. Quite old and beautiful. Walking around it was amazingly huge. Everything is so huge. The ancient Chinese didn't mess around that's for sure.
For supper we had another huge meal and the famous Beijing Roasted duck. I ate more than my share for sure. It was great. After getting back to the hotel we went to the bar and had a few drinks with our new Holland friends that now live in Paris, Ontario. We were all tired from conquering the Great Wall again and sacking the Emperor.
For supper we had another huge meal and the famous Beijing Roasted duck. I ate more than my share for sure. It was great. After getting back to the hotel we went to the bar and had a few drinks with our new Holland friends that now live in Paris, Ontario. We were all tired from conquering the Great Wall again and sacking the Emperor.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Massage
We headed back to the hotel and stopped for supper. It was good but I was unhappy about the staff laughing at us. We were entertainment for the cooks and staff.
Johanne and I have very tired legs and feet so we ordered a massage. Two young girls showed up in our room like prostitutes (but they weren't :-( ) and gave us an hour and a half full body massage. It was absolutely amazing. The cost was only about $26. Well worth it seeing we did so much walking the first two days and were so sore. I nearly screamed when she was working my calf muscles.
Johanne and I have very tired legs and feet so we ordered a massage. Two young girls showed up in our room like prostitutes (but they weren't :-( ) and gave us an hour and a half full body massage. It was absolutely amazing. The cost was only about $26. Well worth it seeing we did so much walking the first two days and were so sore. I nearly screamed when she was working my calf muscles.
May 8
Got up at 6:00 am again. On the bus at 7:30 on the way to a different gate of the Great Wall. Can't wait.
We stopped at a Jade manufacturing center. It was pretty cool but we're too cheap to buy anything. For me experience is more precious than jewelry.
Arrived at Juan something gate. It was amazingly straight up on the west side, the East wasn't so bad. Needless to say we went west and I wanted to be first so Clarence and I pushed the girls until we got to the top and nearly collapsed. It was an unbelievable view. So worth it but really demanding in the 32 degree heat.
The weather has been perfect in terms of no rain, however the heat has been stifling. Your water becomes hot in no time but you have to stay hydrated or else. I really love pushing myself to see more even though it was exhausting. Most people chose the East portion which wasn't as steep. The west side that we took hardly had anyone on it... For good reason it was straight up with steps of varying height. My knees have done really well up to now. Hopefully they will continue to be good.
One young couple is always late at every stop and is really pissing everyone off. They were 30 minutes late from the great wall delaying lunch and beer. When they got on the bus me and another guy verbally attacked them, me yelling about respect for others and selfish behavior the other guy not so polite. They sit at our meal table and Clarence and I double teamed them when they started making excuses.
We stopped for lunch at..... Wait for it... Another shopping factory. The lunch was great but again we never bought anything. I'm just not interested in such things. Johanne likes to look but is being good.
That being said we have been sucked into buying two group photos, a t-shirt and an etching from a guy doing them on the wall. Clarence bought his for 100 and haggled down to 90 ($14) then I bought a t-shirt for 35 and haggled her down to 30. So the war is now on between us.
We stopped at a Jade manufacturing center. It was pretty cool but we're too cheap to buy anything. For me experience is more precious than jewelry.
Arrived at Juan something gate. It was amazingly straight up on the west side, the East wasn't so bad. Needless to say we went west and I wanted to be first so Clarence and I pushed the girls until we got to the top and nearly collapsed. It was an unbelievable view. So worth it but really demanding in the 32 degree heat.
The weather has been perfect in terms of no rain, however the heat has been stifling. Your water becomes hot in no time but you have to stay hydrated or else. I really love pushing myself to see more even though it was exhausting. Most people chose the East portion which wasn't as steep. The west side that we took hardly had anyone on it... For good reason it was straight up with steps of varying height. My knees have done really well up to now. Hopefully they will continue to be good.
One young couple is always late at every stop and is really pissing everyone off. They were 30 minutes late from the great wall delaying lunch and beer. When they got on the bus me and another guy verbally attacked them, me yelling about respect for others and selfish behavior the other guy not so polite. They sit at our meal table and Clarence and I double teamed them when they started making excuses.
We stopped for lunch at..... Wait for it... Another shopping factory. The lunch was great but again we never bought anything. I'm just not interested in such things. Johanne likes to look but is being good.
That being said we have been sucked into buying two group photos, a t-shirt and an etching from a guy doing them on the wall. Clarence bought his for 100 and haggled down to 90 ($14) then I bought a t-shirt for 35 and haggled her down to 30. So the war is now on between us.
Hutong
We then went to Hutong which is the old part of Beijing. We were there the first day on our own.
We took a rickshaw around. Our driver made fun of my hairy arms. I made fun of his hairless chest. All with no spoke words. It was really funny.
We went to a local home and got a chance to go through a traditional home. The women who lived there was great. Very tiny with nothing at all. Very simple.
I got some amazing photos I can't wait to share. Two men were playing Chinese checkers and I was able to photograph them.
It was a wonderful experience. Our Rickshaw driver dodged traffic as Johanne screamed and gasped. I was brave and nearly shit myself. One Rickshaw hit a car or so it looked. It's crazy from what we are used to.
We took a rickshaw around. Our driver made fun of my hairy arms. I made fun of his hairless chest. All with no spoke words. It was really funny.
We went to a local home and got a chance to go through a traditional home. The women who lived there was great. Very tiny with nothing at all. Very simple.
I got some amazing photos I can't wait to share. Two men were playing Chinese checkers and I was able to photograph them.
It was a wonderful experience. Our Rickshaw driver dodged traffic as Johanne screamed and gasped. I was brave and nearly shit myself. One Rickshaw hit a car or so it looked. It's crazy from what we are used to.
The Forbidden City
We crossed the street to the Forbidden City. It was a real thrill. The history and culture was unbelievable. The ritual and symbolic things are so incredible. The ancient city itself was incredibly huge and complex. I never expected it to be so massive. The Emperor sure lived like a king :-).
Our guide Nelson has been great. We got lots of amazing stories that leave you totally bewildered by today's standards. Why can't I have 3000 concubines????
The architecture and design was impressive too.
From there we had lunch and it was great. Lots of food. The staff were amused by our use of chop sticks. We're such experts.
After lunch we went to the Emperor's summer palace. It was beautiful. A lot of people for sure.
God it's hot about 28 degrees and smoggy!!
Our guide Nelson has been great. We got lots of amazing stories that leave you totally bewildered by today's standards. Why can't I have 3000 concubines????
The architecture and design was impressive too.
From there we had lunch and it was great. Lots of food. The staff were amused by our use of chop sticks. We're such experts.
After lunch we went to the Emperor's summer palace. It was beautiful. A lot of people for sure.
God it's hot about 28 degrees and smoggy!!
Tienemen square
Our first stop today was Tienamen Square. The worlds largest public square. It can hold a million people. It was amazing.... For a square.
Walking across the streets here are something stupid. Green pedestrian lights mean nothing. You have to have your wits about you for sure or you can get killed.
Walking across the streets here are something stupid. Green pedestrian lights mean nothing. You have to have your wits about you for sure or you can get killed.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
The Great Wall
I have to say the hike today across Bataling was extremely challenging. It was a huge reminder of Macchu Picchu. But we are winners and beat everyone there Hahahaha. It was a great day.
it's not even 9:00 and we are in bed all ready.
Clarence and Susan ate at the hotel due to Clarence's Silliac disease. Johanne and I found a hot pot restaurant and we had two beer each and a complete meal for under $20 Canadian.
No one at the restaurant spoke English so I ordered by randomly pointing at words on the menu as there were no pictures. I even clicked like a chicken at one point to signify.... Yes chicken. She didn't get it. It was a fun experience. Everyone one in the place starred at us throughout our meal.
it's not even 9:00 and we are in bed all ready.
Clarence and Susan ate at the hotel due to Clarence's Silliac disease. Johanne and I found a hot pot restaurant and we had two beer each and a complete meal for under $20 Canadian.
No one at the restaurant spoke English so I ordered by randomly pointing at words on the menu as there were no pictures. I even clicked like a chicken at one point to signify.... Yes chicken. She didn't get it. It was a fun experience. Everyone one in the place starred at us throughout our meal.
May 5 - the million mile Walk
On Saturday we took a taxi to the old section of Beijing. We strolled around the lake and through alley ways and all around from 10:00am until 9:00pm.
For the most part people treat us a curiosity. Especially me with my camera gear. At times we are like rock stars with girls asking to have their picture with us. It's real strange.
Men were fishing around the lake, I expected to see the three eye balled Simpsons fish come out of the lake actually.
We hit a night market that was pure mayhem. Clarence and Johanne were freaking out over the crowded wall to walk people.
We stopped and had a beer and people's watched, actual they watched us mostly.
Once we decided to catch a taxi back I haggled and walked away from several taxis trying to screw us over. You have to do the research first for sure. One guy wanted 600 yuan another 200, one 100, then 30..... But the legitimate taxis are metered. I wasn't getting in some guys car trying to make a buck or taxi driver trying to rip us off.
It was an amazing day in a beautiful city with some wonderful people.
For the most part people treat us a curiosity. Especially me with my camera gear. At times we are like rock stars with girls asking to have their picture with us. It's real strange.
Men were fishing around the lake, I expected to see the three eye balled Simpsons fish come out of the lake actually.
We hit a night market that was pure mayhem. Clarence and Johanne were freaking out over the crowded wall to walk people.
We stopped and had a beer and people's watched, actual they watched us mostly.
Once we decided to catch a taxi back I haggled and walked away from several taxis trying to screw us over. You have to do the research first for sure. One guy wanted 600 yuan another 200, one 100, then 30..... But the legitimate taxis are metered. I wasn't getting in some guys car trying to make a buck or taxi driver trying to rip us off.
It was an amazing day in a beautiful city with some wonderful people.
Shear Craziness
One of the most incredible days of lives. Tried to get to Bataling (a section of the Great Wall) Taxi was expensive and tough to time our needs. Tour buses and groups were needlessly expensive and you only got a couple of hours. Mostly designed tourists..... Like us. So what to do.... What would locals do?
Take a taxi to the bus station and pay an outrageous $2 for a one hour bus ride. Sounds easy.... Try it where no one speaks your language and opportunists try to take advantage of you. We did it though.
To set the record straight we hiked the entire west and entire east side of Bataling. Took most of the day, end to end. Unbelievably spectacular. I was so excited to be there I could hardly contain myself.
Take a taxi to the bus station and pay an outrageous $2 for a one hour bus ride. Sounds easy.... Try it where no one speaks your language and opportunists try to take advantage of you. We did it though.
To set the record straight we hiked the entire west and entire east side of Bataling. Took most of the day, end to end. Unbelievably spectacular. I was so excited to be there I could hardly contain myself.
Friday, May 4, 2012
What a day
Landed at Beijing. Crazy big airport. We were approached by several people "taxi". We declined and went looking for the Taxi stand. The first guy want 600yuan. By metered taxi it was 100. About $13 for a 30 minute ride. Pays to do research.
We took a sleeping pill on the plane knocked me out for 4 solid hours it was great. Woke very refreshed.
Exhausted now. We got to the hotel and checked in and went for a walk. It's my birthday so what a way to celebrate.
Found a little restaurant and had an amazing birthday supper. You had a hot plate in front of you with soup and you added your own ingredients and plucked it out after cooking and dip in a sauce. It was amazing. A really nice lady helped translate for us.
We went to a grocery store and picked up drinks for tomorrow. There sure are a lot of Chinese people here :-).
Amazing so far. Tomorrow we plan to walk around the city and the next day hike the great wall.
I am exhausted. This beer is hitting hard right now.
We took a sleeping pill on the plane knocked me out for 4 solid hours it was great. Woke very refreshed.
Exhausted now. We got to the hotel and checked in and went for a walk. It's my birthday so what a way to celebrate.
Found a little restaurant and had an amazing birthday supper. You had a hot plate in front of you with soup and you added your own ingredients and plucked it out after cooking and dip in a sauce. It was amazing. A really nice lady helped translate for us.
We went to a grocery store and picked up drinks for tomorrow. There sure are a lot of Chinese people here :-).
Amazing so far. Tomorrow we plan to walk around the city and the next day hike the great wall.
I am exhausted. This beer is hitting hard right now.
36000 feet up
Only four hours in and we have cabin fever. Air Canada screwed up Clarence's gluten free meal. They put something together for him. Hopefully it's ok. They didn't have a lactose free meal for me either. At least I can take pills.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
On jet for Beijing
This is a big ass jet for sure 777. Johanne's back is still bothering her.
When we arrived in TO our flight to China was flashing "boarding" on the departure board and we were a mile away. We hoofed 'er to get to the gate to find out it was a mistake.
We shoveled down $38 worth of wrapped sandwiches and are now sitting in the last row of seats on this beast.
Hope my boys are okay.
When we arrived in TO our flight to China was flashing "boarding" on the departure board and we were a mile away. We hoofed 'er to get to the gate to find out it was a mistake.
We shoveled down $38 worth of wrapped sandwiches and are now sitting in the last row of seats on this beast.
Hope my boys are okay.
On the jet to TO
Sitting on the plane to Toronto right now with one of my last Timmy's for a couple of weeks. Starting to de-stress now that we are on our way.
Hopefully the dogs won't miss us too much. The two Dad's are amazing for taking care of our boys. I miss them all ready.... The dogs that is Hahahahaha.
Hopefully the dogs won't miss us too much. The two Dad's are amazing for taking care of our boys. I miss them all ready.... The dogs that is Hahahahaha.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Packing
Dear God the packing still continues. The camera gear is overwhelming.... but a required evil!
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