The Great Wall is GREAT!

At 8am, after breakfast we headed out for the Great Wall - via a jade showoom today. I foolishly looked a little intetested in a $2500 bracelet and then spent the next 25 minutes being chased around the showroom by a very excited sales girl....left empty handed :(

At the wall we had 2 hours to climb as much as we wanted, however we couldn't go past no.12 guard house - right at the top. Di and I sent the boys on ahead as they were determined to go all the way - which they did- and I met them on their way down at 9 1/2. What spectacular views....

Back on the bus we drove past the Olympic stadiums, to see the "Cube" and the "Birdnest", on our way to a very traditional, historic area of Bejing to visit a local family for a meal.....via a VERY crowded alley (due to a public holiday) and a rickshaw ride.

The 50 minute drive home was loud and raucous due to new friendships made - and "fire water" consumed!Read more