Friday, June 27, 2008

5 Senses Review: BEIJING

We have arrived safely in Hong Kong for 4 nights! Continuing to have amazing adventures as always, here are my thoughts on Beijing.

SIGHT: As I am sure you all read in the last blog entry... we encountered some heavy rain and hail as we scurried along the top of the Great Wall, heading for the nearest covering. I hustled quickly to keep up with the group, but at the same time I couldn't help but take in the beauty of my surroundings. The one sight that stood out was watching the rain fall down from above. It was completely foreign to see the rain below me as we pranced amongst the clouds.

TOUCH: As we wandered around the Summer Palace I could not help but to run my hand across the many marble railings lining Kunming Lake. The rough feel of the worn marble showed the age and history of the place we were standing, but the rare smooth spot was a wonderful reminder of the luxurious life the royalty had at the Summer Palace.

SMELL: As I huffed and puffed up the steep trail leading to the Great Wall I became very away that the smog that had surrounded me for days had dissipated. Along with the fresh air was the smell of sweet white flowers that naturally emerged from amongst the brush. It was all so very refreshing.

TASTE: A "must" according to Lonely Planet was to have a dumpling breakfast. So we followed the locals one day and found a place that had 10 dumplings for 5 rmb (70 cents-ish). As we sat surrounded by old Chinese men, I savored the flavor of the authentic breakfast food. Unique spices, and a mixture of pork (and who knows what else), all embedded in a soft doughy layer was surprisingly my favorite food in Beijing.

SOUND: The pleasant singing and chanting of local women's choirs as we strolled through numerous parks. The local feel, gorgeous voices, and accompanying flute made me feel like I was truly in China. (I would post a video I recorded but the computer I am using dates back to the DOS ages and there isn't a USB port)...

Alright... Another update soon from Hong Kong. We expect you to be waiting on the edge of your seats for these pictures (and stories, obviously) because this city is both of our favorites so far.

2 comments:

Johnna said...

Once again, wonderful descriptions! Can't wait until post those sounds of the singing and chanting in the parks. Glad you are taking in everything around you. Mom

Mary said...

So glad your mom gave me your blog address. I am enjoying your adventures, it sounds like you are really absorbing the culture and your surroundings. Hong Kong is also a real favorite of mine so I am anxious to hear your comments. Continue to have a wonderful time.
Mary Ettel