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I can't think of anything more exhilarating than in impromtu trip to chicago...
Well, if you didn't hear the news, apparently you need a passport AND a VISA to enter China these days, something we thought the travel agency might have mentioned, but in the end it's our own fault.
Long story short, we arrived at the Detroit Airport around 4:30 AM on Sept 7th, and thought we were stranded. A United ticketing agent took pitty on us and rerouted us through Chicago at no charge. After a quick ride into Chicago on the "L," we were in line at the Chinese consulate at 8:30am, and had our VISAs by 2:00 PM. Spent most of the day hanging out on Michigan ave and got in touch with people mostly through facebook since we didn't have cell phones. God bless facebook. Ended up staying out by the airport in a 4 star hotel and got on a non stop flight to Beijing the next day. All in all, not a bad 1st day.
The flight felt surprisingly short, and we got to the hostel, thanks to the keen eye of Becky noticing a random sign pointing down an alley that read, "Far East Youth Hostel." Ignore the word, "alley," it's not what you think. Most roads in Beijing are alleys that cars can't go down. The hostel is great. It has a restaurant, cafe and bar in two different buildings. Also a really pretty courtyard with grapevines overhead. Have met some cool people from all over the world.
The only word to describe Beijing is fantastic. Everything is so amazing here. People are so friendly and helpful. Very few people speak English but it hasn't been much of a problem. The streets are so busy with people, bikes, and amazing food everywhere! We spent our first full day at the summer palace just outside of Beijing. Absolutely beautiful!! Will try to post pictures soon. This morning we walked around Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City and this afternoon hope to check out a pearl market.
Thats all for now. -R and M
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