We’re not in Hong Kong anymore!

We arrived in Beijing last night, where we were promptly charged an outrageous $100US for the cab into town (we didn’t have much choice, our luggage has sort of multiplied, expanded and taken on a life of its own). The air hung brown, our eyes burned, and headaches set in immediately. And then there’s the traffic. Oy!

We arrived at the Double Happiness Hotel down a narrow alley filled with three-wheeled bicycle/trucks, little dogs, school children, trees, and unexpected quietude in our houtong (courtyard neighborhood). The jarring arrival dissipated and Jack and Rose so astutely observed, “This is so Chinese-y!”

And now, we’re ready to explore this grand dame of China!