Sippin' Tea Below Freezin'

Thanks for all of your kind words and great information from those of you who have travelled to Asia. Even though, it's only been a short time, since I left, it's so great to get messages from all of you.

I arrived in Beijing early this morning to below freezing weather and a near empty airport. One can tell that this is not the high tourist season. I must have missed the memo.

Still, the airport is state of the art and the new train to Beijing was just as nice. The benefits of said low season and coming after the Chinese spent billions on the Olympics were obvious.

Once off the train, I was no longer in the bubble and the smell of diesel and coal hit me smack in the face. Even at 6:30 in the morning there were people and cars everywhere, and not a person could point me in the right direction. After crossing our version of 6th ave and I-25 by foot, 2-3 times, I whipped out the compass and a few mile jaunt, I found my way to a great hostel, complete with all the comforts of a backpacker's delight, internet, english/german speaking foreigners, a bar, etc. All the things that Andrew and I would scuff at on our trips to South America, but so nice to have when you're flying solo. (you can even check out the website: www.backpackingchina.com) I feel a bit embarrassed about taking the easy way out on this one, but their Jasmine tea is amazing.

I'll be spending the next few days following the Gringo Trail of Beijing. I'll keep you posted and may even have a few photos to send your way.

Just more than a day left until the greatest holiday man has ever created.

Happy Thanksgiving,
Chris

PS. Not all my posts will be as boring as this one, but I figured it was important to provide you all with the turkey and stuffing before providing you with the twice baked potatoes and pecan pie to follow.