Signing Off

Well the choice between 3 and a half days on the train (that's 72 hours) or 5 hours on the plane was pretty easy. It was only 50 euro's more than the train and a whole lot faster.

.1 Frank's Map

I flew into Beijing and found a great guesthouse in the hutongs. A hutong is an ancient city alley or lane typical in Beijing, where the daily life of people goes on. There's people doing laundry, hanging out, playing chinese chess, eating and selling anything and everything you could imagine. If you are a good bargainer there was some good prices as well.

Along with great Chinese food, I had to have my fix of western food. I was able to locate a Pizza Hut and, for the first time in 4 months, sank my teeth into a proper western pizza. Mmmmnnnn. It was just what the doctor ordered, but a little expensive (same price as in Canada!)

What would a trip to Beijing be without a trip to the Forbidden City. This imperial palace was the center of China's power during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is the world's largest palace complex and covers 74 hectares. It was just north of Tiananmen Square and a 30 minute walk from my guesthouse. Packed with tourists, temples and old buildings it was impressive.

Tiananmen Square was another, in some ways more interesting site. Unbelievably huge, it takes 15 minutes to walk from one end to another. China's flag proudly flies at one end with several solders standing guard to protect it.

My last big outing in China was to the Great Wall with my friend Xiang, who had travelled with me for a month in Sichuan. The Wall was truely great as it stretched out for miles in either direction, climbing hills and coiling around the landscape. We had a great day on the great wall and I particularly enjoyed the hiking. Some sections of the wall were pretty steep and a bit of work to climb.

After several days in Beijing and some last minute shopping, it was time to say good-bye to China and head home. I arrived in Calgary on the 24th of June at 11 pm and was greeted by my good friend Darren.

To all those I met on this trip, I want to thank you for an amazing experience. I wish everyone good luck and good fortune.