Marilyn’s Take (away) on China – thus far

Finally in one place – 3 whole nights!

Liked Shanghai a lot (especially the Peace Hotel on the Bund…).  The Great Wall is amazing.  Beijing – not loving it.  Forbidden City is temples (if you’ve seen one …..).  They don’t like to show you Tianamen Square – and, of course, they have no knowledge of the historic significance (or at least they don’t speak about it….).  Saw the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube last night (exterior).  Very cool.

Water Cube Swimming Stadium

Bird's Nest

Beijing traffic is ghastly.  Horrible and getting worse.  Can’t imagine bringing a group here (so far) – except for a look at the Great Wall – maybe a stopover activity.

Looking forward to Guilin in a few days.  I think (hope) it is the idyllic China I’m expecting.

That’s all …..