Today was quite eventful. We had the usual touring I will discuss later but the big drama of the day was a conflict with the tour company. Our contract reads and we paid for a soft sleeper train but at about 2pm our tour guide told us we are booked for a hard sleeper. The difference in sleeping conditions like bed and sheets is not much but the privacy and safety is much different and some concern. Our group luckily is sting minded and stood up to the company. This change just will not do. After much "discussion" and many phone calls the company conceded and got us a hotel room for the night and a early morning flight. Thank goodness. I was excited for the train ride but not willing to make any concession when it comes to my safety. They have a saying in China that things happen and then they are over... In America we say Shit Happens!
Ok, back to what we saw/did today! In the morning we toured the Summer Palace taking a boat ride across the lake and walking around the Dragon Lady's courtyard. It was a beautiful garden landscape and a gorgeous day.
We also went to a traditional neighborhood and learned to make dumplings. While in this neighborhood we took rigs haws from place to place and had a great time. Later in the afternoon we stopped at Beijing's equidistant of 5th Avenue. Instead of shopping we found an outdoor bar and had a few beers.
Overall today was nice. The touring was easier and I'm less exhausted at the end of the day. Looking forward to a week plus of more touring! Of to Xi'an in the morning!
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