Amazing Acrobats

While in Beijing, our group went to an acrobatic show. Since I have been a gymnast for most of my life, I appreciated the skills of the performers. The event took place in a large building on a wooden stage. These acrobats performed some of the most amazing stunts I have ever seen! While they were doing their acts, people were running around, taking pictures, and talking loudly. This really surprised me because in America, loud noise and flash photography would not be permitted. I would compare the show to "Cirque Du Soleil." However, the performance did not have any side acts and the main focus was on the acrobatic skills. I found myself gripping the velvet chairs in fear that one of the performers might make a mistake. To my relief, everything turned out exceptional.

The Great Wall

One of my most memorable experiences while in Beijing was climbing the Great Wall. As we began our journey to the top, we were able to climb a few stairs, then take a break for pictures. It was so freezing that our group was forced to descend after climbing half way up. Our group leader was afraid that we would suffer from frostbite if we did not seek shelter. However, on our way down, we came across a camel wrapped in a traditional Chinese blanket. Our group was astounded when we saw the animal standing on the stairs. For two American dollars, we were able to sit on top of it and get our picture taken! I will never forget the countless number of stairs we climbed or the breath-taking view that the Great Wall provided.

First Day in Guilin

The morning following our arrival in Guilin, our American group ate a rice noodle breakfast. We chose from a variety of breads and were served an unknown soup. Leaving our food security in America, our group decided to be adventurous and try food that is enjoyed by the locals. After breakfast, we walked around and experienced the Hong Quiao Market. This is an underground area of commerce complete with clothes, food, and jewelry. It was overwhelming because we were bombarded with people trying to sell us their products. Some would not take "no" for an answer, and they even began pulling us by our jackets over to their tables. Later, we ventured to a museum, looked in a cave, and climbed the Solitary Beauty Hill. It was truly breathtaking, but it was freezing outside. According to a local, "Guilin is coldest ever been."

The Plane Ride

The plane ride to China was an adventure in itself. I sat next to a Chinese family who were returning to their farm in Guilin. Since I have never taken Chinese, it was difficult to converse with the people around me. However, I found different ways to communicate and used non-verbal expression in place of words. At the end of the tiring yet interesting flight, the woman I had gotten to know introduced me to her son. He knew a few words in English, so I was able to give him a standard greeting. I realized that the plane ride to China was only the beginning of a lesson in language restricted communication.

Chinese Culture

China is an amazing country, one filled with historical traditions and unique customs. A main focus of the Chinese is family life. Instead of emphasizing the power of the individual, people in China focus on the best interests of the community. By bringing each person's talents and ideas together, a group can reach a consensus and accomplish a goal. In January 2006, I, along with 20 other Americans, traveled to Guilin, Beijing, and Hong Kong. The places we visited were so different and impressive. During the trip, I kept a travel journal and expressed my ideas about a particular event or situation that stood out as impressive. My goal in this blog is to share some of my experiences and get feedback from people who are also interested in the Chinese culture.