As far as we know, no dog...

but we have had literally whole duck ( head and bill included), whole chicken, with a plate of extra feet, pole [dancing?] chicken, and all sorts of skin and other bits. With minor exceptions, the food has been excellent, and moreover, the main areas with restaurants are lively and fun. Lots of bright lights, street stalls, music, singing the occasional giant panda, frog, peacock, and of course throngs of people.

These areas do feel a bit kitchy at times, but there is no doubt the chinese passion for food and fun. It's a very memorable experience .

I will come back later to politics , but from what we have seen, considering the immense challenges in such a populous nation, many aspects of life are good. People seem content and happy. They are certainly overwhelmingly friendly and helpful. I think those looking for a way to "deal" with China need to come here and understand that, actually, the government probably has massive support from the people on many things. This isn't a fragile society. It's a safe place, I know that has a price, but one young chinrse told us he loved Europe but that he was robbed three times in 18 months there. Lennox went to the hospital yesterday, was seen by a Dr, samples taken, test results, and diagnosis within an hour. Hospital largely empty, plenty staff. The cost of all that care is $5. So, some things here work like a dream. It's not perfect, and I wouldn't want to live here, but it needs to be understood and its considerable achievements respected. Nixon got one thing right. To get results in China, go see them and engage them.Read more