I promised to give you all an accurate account of what my experience in China is like, but am already overwhelmed with things to share since we just got internet! And so, before I officially begin, allow me to apologize for the length of this post!
I arrived in Beijing what feels like a decade ago after 13 impossible hours to Korea, and another few hours to Beijing. On both flights I was forced to endure the snores and slobber of my fellow passengers, while trying to get into a position that minimized the contact with Hung Shu, the man sitting next to me. While on both of my flights I couldn't help but feel honored to have been served by the elegantly dressed stewardess who were decked out head to two with pro-korean-sweatshop-made garb.
When I finally arrived in Beijing I was immediately overwhelmed in my post-sleeping pill haze by the shear number of asians surrounding me. After getting my bags--both of which looked like they could have swallowed the other bags and made me look like the glutenous American we are all--I met Joyce Li, one of the program directors. She met me at the airport and while in the taxi, told me about all of the incredible things I had to look forward to over the next few months. As excited as I wanted to be, I couldn't help but be scared by the black soot covering most of the tops of the beijing buildings we passed.
When I first arrived at the crack-den that is Shao-Youen 5, our dorm, I was pleasantly surprised to find other americans there when I arrived, so that they could help me drag my luggage up five flights of stairs to our room. No elevator. I found out that Brittany was going to be my roommate so I took the double room with her and gave up the single room for Sharon, one of Brits friends from AU who I love. Within the first 12 hours, we accidentally locked Brittany into her room and blew a fuse. EEK!
Since we have meet the rest of our program, though, it honestly seems like we are going to have an amazing time. We have discovered the most incredible foods and begun to really explore parts of the city. We went out to a few bars and clubs but last night I stayed in and slept... jet lag has finally hit!!
Tonight we are going to Pyro Pizza with the program for Pizza and Beer on them which should be a GREAT time! I can't wait to update this again with more info but for now I have to run and get my Chinese Books... oh yeah, and learn to speak Chinese. WISH ME LUCK!
Until next time,
Sambam Panda
Hey Sami,
ReplyDeleteIt is so much fun to read this stuff and remember Molly's experience. It also brings back how much fun we had on our visit and it is great to be able to picture every place that you describe. Pyro was the only martini I found in 3 weeks in China so I will never forget it.
You are going to have a fabulous time and will be speaking the important Chinese by the time your family comes. How to direct the cabs, how to get the Chinese price at the Silk Market and how to order in restaurants. The rest is not so important.
Continue to have a great time.
Mary Beth