More Beijing

Time for a quick update on my doings in Beijing since we last spoke...

I started off by visiting the Forbidden City. Although it was amazing to see, I was a little bit disappointed that Roger Moore wasn't doing the audio guide commentary as promised in the Lonely Planet!! That said it was really interesting and certainly huge! I ran out of time walking around so missed the treasures :o(

I also happened to be leaving as the sun set and the Chinese Army marched across Tainanmen Square and lower the Chinese Flag. Which reminds me, it was weird at the start of the week to see the Union Flag flying alongside the Chinese flag from all the government buildings when Cameron was in Beijing! Anyway I digress....

A trip to Beijing zoo was worthwhile for seeing the Pandas. It was certainly a depressing zoo though with, in particular, the Lions, Tigers and Elephants in tiny cages. It reminded me of London Zoo when I last went in the late 80's before the new animal cruelty standards came in.

Last night was again a night out clubbing and again it was expensive, full of westerners and okay, no better. It was call Vics though which I found funny... As it's my Sisters name)

Today started in the afternoon so I thought it would be a wasted day but we actually managed to achieve a lot. We stared off by visiting the Temple of Heaven Park which was really peaceful with some stunning temples and lovely grounds.

The lads I'm with had always planned to go and see a Chinese Acrobat show. This wasn't really something I was worried about but but I went along anyway. I was really glad I did, I was blown away! It was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. In my life not just on my travels! I can't really explain how great it was. Have a look at their website to get an idea:

http://www.tianqiaoacrobatictheater.com/

We topped of the day by going to a local restaurant for some Peking Duck... Great day

Tomorrow we've got an early (5.30am) start for a trip to the great wall, so no staying up for the footy for me (not that I'd be able to watch it anyway)

So all that's left to say is COYS

Hopefully some pictures from the wall tomorrow...