tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36230893719346802992024-03-05T12:04:10.341+08:00ChinaMangoPersonal tour guide - contact me on jetchina0602@hotmail.comChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-57747173284850481712017-04-23T11:00:00.000+08:002017-04-23T18:23:02.634+08:00Some China photosI have been in China in Beijing, Xinjiang, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Shanghai. It was good to be back seeing family, friends and my associate tour guides who are carrying on the ChinaMango business. There was not that much pollution surprisingly! We had quite a few sunny days and blue skies in Beijing. Also the high speed rail network makes travelling large distances so easy.<br />
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In Beijing, we saw something you would never see on the streets of London:<br />
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This little fella was being taken out for a walk by its owner......actually not a pet, but up for sale at 1600 RMB (around 200 pounds or 250 USD).You know the Chinese believe that they make a great soup and have anti-carcinogenic properties, probably related to their long lives.<br />
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In Shanghai, despite the national economic slowdown, business is still booming. There are over 1000 buildings exceeding 30 stories, and new skyscrapers are still being built.There are more free standing buildings over 400m high than in any other city in the world, except for Chicago.<br />
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The building on the left, the recently-completed Shanghai Tower, has 128 floors and is 632 m tall, the tallest in China and the second tallest in the world, and next to it in the middle of the photo is the Shanghai World Financial Centre at 492m.<br />
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We took some time off to sample the nightlife in Shanghai and there were a few new hotspots to see and be seen in. One place that caught my eye was a UK-themed bar that only opened after 11pm.<br />
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If you want to know where the door to Heaven is, then do book a Shanghai night tour!</div>
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However, it was the street scene below that reminded me of England the most, with sycamore trees, few people and even fewer cars! This was taken during the holiday period in the French concession area of Shanghai, a wonderful area for walking around in.</div>
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Do let me know if you need any help with going around Beijing or Shanghai,day or night, and don't forget to look at previous posts for more information.<br />
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jetchina0602@hotmail.com<br />
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<br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-69318879881031920282014-12-27T05:20:00.001+08:002014-12-27T05:20:11.353+08:00Seasons Greetings from London!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a very warm Xmas in London this year, and I've been enjoying myself celebrating with lots of old friends and also new friends. I was fortunate to be invited to dinner at the Oriental Club in London recently,so here's a photo of me all dressed up forthe occasion. Lovely staircase and paintings, don't you think? Almost as impressive as your home?<br />
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Talking about home, I'm looking forward to going back to China for holiday at the end of this month and after travelling around there and S. E Asia, I'll be spending Chinese New Year (19th Feb) back in Beijing with my family.<br />
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Many thanks to you all for your continued support. I wish you and your families all the best for the New Year and I hope we can continue to be in touch.ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-64794844031380431282013-10-14T04:59:00.000+08:002013-10-14T04:59:10.075+08:00ChinaMango Tour Information for Beijing and other cities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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ChinaMango would be very happy to arrange a guide in Beijing, and
surrounding areas, for half or full day tours, as well as night tours. I will not be posting new blog updates in future, and would encourage you to browse through the previous posts for a taste of the many things you can do and see in and around Beijing.<br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">If this is your
first visit to Beijing, there are the 'must-see' historical sights like
Forbidden City (renovated and more displays since the 2008 Olympics),</span><img src="file:///c:/DOCUME~1/ADMINI~1/APPLIC~1/360se6/USERDA~1/Temp/VENUES~1.JPG" /><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> Temple of
Heaven, and Summer Palace. These can be done by taxi at reasonable cost. Also a
one day trip to the Wild Wall (non-touristy part of the Great Wall) and Ming
Tombs is very popular with private car.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">There are other
places such as hutong tour (traditional alley and street life), modern art area
'798', museums and the municipal planning exhibition. The blog posts over the past few years also show the variety of things you can see in Beijing and surroundings. We are very flexible, and can discuss and customise a program based on
your particular interests, putting in as much or as little in one tour as you
like.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">We can of
course also give recommendations on the best places to eat, there is such a huge
range now from very cheap local restaurants with food from all over China (and
the world!), and also fine dining Michelin star restaurants. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We also arrange
night tours which can include a show (acrobatics or kung fu or Beijing opera),
Olympic sites at dusk,</span></span><br />
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a night food market and visits to local spa/massage
and/or bars (Weekends are the best times for the bars).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For the more adventurous, there are several interesting possibilities around
Beijing such as Chengde (Imperial Resort),</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCsKDTg_QcFCV6IV32x0CO8VJxrMCMIhyphenhyphenjdCHXombKMaYHa644hJUZO2dxlAOaHWb0V31mWd6EZey4D37b0KbPGVudyn4ICXtJkzSBcfH2mXHKDzXUegIhd-pcGz_m6WWGfQ8PLW8_qc/s1600/P4141368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCsKDTg_QcFCV6IV32x0CO8VJxrMCMIhyphenhyphenjdCHXombKMaYHa644hJUZO2dxlAOaHWb0V31mWd6EZey4D37b0KbPGVudyn4ICXtJkzSBcfH2mXHKDzXUegIhd-pcGz_m6WWGfQ8PLW8_qc/s320/P4141368.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Tianjin, Pingyao (UNESCO World
Heritage Site), and Xian (terracotta warriors) where we have standard 2 and 3 day packages. Further afield, we can arrange a
visit to Xinjiang for an Old Silk Road tour. </span><br />
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factory visits or tourist shopping, unless requested. Do feel free to contact me on jetchina0602@hotmail.com for further information and rates.</span>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-2919373112779244622013-06-02T15:56:00.002+08:002013-07-14T06:10:53.217+08:00A Taste of (Bitter) Medicine...Chinese Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Luckily, I never had a client who fell ill and had to see a doctor or go to the hospital. That's quite amazing considering we are sometimes walking over 10 km a day in the hot sunny weather or eating all sorts of delicious street food. </div>
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Actually it could be quite interesting for you if you went to see a Chinese doctor. You don't have to be sick, maybe just want to get rid of a headache, or back pain or feel tired easily or have a skin rash or whatever.</div>
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A friend recently recommended to me a famous Chinese traditional medicine doctor Dr Cao whose skills have been passed down from generation to generation. We went along to see him at his clinic, which was in a residential apartment. </div>
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There is a distinct feeling of entering a buddhist temple. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ycg7nXrBuWLNBvtCO3vc0Jp4reVXPHudWv3p9THX45NUZjLDyN7MsicS5a39H33ANi1qGYZXjpfBiKj7oJyjSx7OiIXlaor0gD2SFUJ0av2ZF6J6kqoez4y-IXEC4JviaRoO2mSBZ30/s1600/IMG_3852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ycg7nXrBuWLNBvtCO3vc0Jp4reVXPHudWv3p9THX45NUZjLDyN7MsicS5a39H33ANi1qGYZXjpfBiKj7oJyjSx7OiIXlaor0gD2SFUJ0av2ZF6J6kqoez4y-IXEC4JviaRoO2mSBZ30/s400/IMG_3852.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScF66QiT2DxemKUPwYpPNm9Xnvr_tRYczfxyja9_qKfrFsGHNjcYCFNFHsCnNpuOuYOeTDus64oKNs_BWGlnmrWhW-pqXQ4_srzGp5qCtXRxt7jcQZHpLvwhygIfz553XD_9ObxuxHI8/s1600/IMG_3851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScF66QiT2DxemKUPwYpPNm9Xnvr_tRYczfxyja9_qKfrFsGHNjcYCFNFHsCnNpuOuYOeTDus64oKNs_BWGlnmrWhW-pqXQ4_srzGp5qCtXRxt7jcQZHpLvwhygIfz553XD_9ObxuxHI8/s400/IMG_3851.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Dr Cao also knows a thing or two about fengshui, with a stone water pond with fish, and lucky wooden carvings on the wall. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEniRpGspVSDlPBpHFFjnxFmUpkXSS3ESodor4q8O8k3IyUzy1f6ZqUrj2pimm4FNuwjDPbV0WI4xDbnnAQ41i2JNI9kN77eWAzs6CzK_2L0MNo5IcH14xfn66WyjNlNeknkJROw_7UI/s1600/IMG_3855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEniRpGspVSDlPBpHFFjnxFmUpkXSS3ESodor4q8O8k3IyUzy1f6ZqUrj2pimm4FNuwjDPbV0WI4xDbnnAQ41i2JNI9kN77eWAzs6CzK_2L0MNo5IcH14xfn66WyjNlNeknkJROw_7UI/s320/IMG_3855.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaj2Vm503yFjYgLdiDIkqwMVzJAWPmior1LmPBApFVSzLGy8TgtTT_4qpZu6JYZUCJWx92vsMwJfymENno75_wvmnT7ZSp0Kl2ZIioblsJt1sBSo7sth6WsZ9ge5RKBP1QShyV7kHMww/s1600/IMG_3854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaj2Vm503yFjYgLdiDIkqwMVzJAWPmior1LmPBApFVSzLGy8TgtTT_4qpZu6JYZUCJWx92vsMwJfymENno75_wvmnT7ZSp0Kl2ZIioblsJt1sBSo7sth6WsZ9ge5RKBP1QShyV7kHMww/s320/IMG_3854.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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He treats patients not for the direct symptoms of the disease but for the underlying causes. When you go in, he doesn't ask you what's wrong; instead he feels your pulse for some time, looks at your face and asks you to stick out your tongue, chats a little about your eating and sleeping habits and then he tells you his diagnosis of what's wrong with you. He writes out a prescription and you buy the herbs from a TCM store.<br />
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I don't understand how TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) works, but certainly believe in it, like most of my Chinese friends. It's all to do with energy flows and how different organ systems such as the heart, liver and spleen, which are linked to various elements of earth, fire and water, interact to give balance or imbalance of yin and yang. If you are ill, things are not in harmony and the systems are not balanced.<br />
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<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/17/Yin_yang.svg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="File:Yin yang.svg" height="320" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Yin_yang.svg/466px-Yin_yang.svg.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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By treating these imbalances and unblocking internal energy flows you will feel better and have less symptoms. Believe it? Well, who knows if he is correct because the medicine he prescribes, usually herbal in nature but could be animal (e.g. snake skin for skin diseases) sometimes, takes time to take effect. At least it has few side effects and has been tried and tested over thousands of years.<br />
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Western medicine is much stronger and is directed at relieving the immediate symptoms only, and not necessarily at getting to the root causes of the illness. Western medicine is also partly based on believing you have a good doctor and that the medicine he/she prescribes is doing you good too! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCyVe1a7MY03umqZH5RKqvNrt0KiSTsvYgCnMlLBUwd5x1OLEUwoy3Seo355ByEbU9_PVkKMwWQZ5Exn0nAcZy_-xuy9e0_sPgwPElDGNPmZa5kCSaLyvQsIjAopnBvgnyv6sbSK5js4/s1600/IMG_3859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCyVe1a7MY03umqZH5RKqvNrt0KiSTsvYgCnMlLBUwd5x1OLEUwoy3Seo355ByEbU9_PVkKMwWQZ5Exn0nAcZy_-xuy9e0_sPgwPElDGNPmZa5kCSaLyvQsIjAopnBvgnyv6sbSK5js4/s320/IMG_3859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoRtqxxbpyb2lepmws5DB876ytrKGM4rwT80fyOwVda-vVzqVOPUA9O9_jPaw0AYPT-zfNSI8lILihpXsSu3oLY2bWM1fHTSk6U7o4lnmpOeDNFRKqKpCy2D9IGCNoEKHEaKyPgJNf0o/s1600/IMG_3860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoRtqxxbpyb2lepmws5DB876ytrKGM4rwT80fyOwVda-vVzqVOPUA9O9_jPaw0AYPT-zfNSI8lILihpXsSu3oLY2bWM1fHTSk6U7o4lnmpOeDNFRKqKpCy2D9IGCNoEKHEaKyPgJNf0o/s320/IMG_3860.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Dr Cao supplements herbal medicine with acupuncture treatment, and this model of an ear shows the many many different pressure points that exist. It takes an experienced doctor to put the needle(s) in the right point for treating the right symptoms!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5thDyfc1QZvEUvQbfe5cGJhhyWIbjD4wREgJYgJIkc4Jp2V9UgWvZaYLYqjIgO-esWgJ19Se9V7iBZUcBSL1suG_G3XnmutlUU45sxeeag47vyj3iRnEXYFVzmP8z-eEsxUDnyuXXg74/s1600/IMG_3863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5thDyfc1QZvEUvQbfe5cGJhhyWIbjD4wREgJYgJIkc4Jp2V9UgWvZaYLYqjIgO-esWgJ19Se9V7iBZUcBSL1suG_G3XnmutlUU45sxeeag47vyj3iRnEXYFVzmP8z-eEsxUDnyuXXg74/s320/IMG_3863.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here my friend can be seen relaxing on the doctor's couch, but look at his left wrist.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xoFPHLTjD7w/UWtq6v3wcWI/AAAAAAAADm4/5Q2DMDQUKEY/s1600/IMG_3858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xoFPHLTjD7w/UWtq6v3wcWI/AAAAAAAADm4/5Q2DMDQUKEY/s1600/IMG_3858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xoFPHLTjD7w/UWtq6v3wcWI/AAAAAAAADm4/5Q2DMDQUKEY/s320/IMG_3858.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NtsHa9kg_PghZL8ArQe61it5RGh9QB1Ip3ZmP23nKyceUm4e_aw_fqBwMiSXdj5D9bKD0nUPZ4k-sJp-PzJUpKyXAHwk_b5n-ypEIt_YjMj4HqEIfZ1DjcwCiOSmN7zEgai2n0vULes/s1600/IMG_3856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NtsHa9kg_PghZL8ArQe61it5RGh9QB1Ip3ZmP23nKyceUm4e_aw_fqBwMiSXdj5D9bKD0nUPZ4k-sJp-PzJUpKyXAHwk_b5n-ypEIt_YjMj4HqEIfZ1DjcwCiOSmN7zEgai2n0vULes/s320/IMG_3856.JPG" width="320" /></a>Yes that's right, he's got two needles inserted that stay in for 10 minutes or so. Not painful, just a strange feeling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXuYx8EJi8JQHqxUi7EqZUQR3Q7djQpn4DBVZ6Q_SsHdNhi18U6x_4ztg1KKi9R76hWwOdJiOUuylxycxLR_QIIv-RiuxyIIqBoAg_md9D8rtC148jGrSDOi9A-T85rW8aDkSdxlBFVg/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXuYx8EJi8JQHqxUi7EqZUQR3Q7djQpn4DBVZ6Q_SsHdNhi18U6x_4ztg1KKi9R76hWwOdJiOUuylxycxLR_QIIv-RiuxyIIqBoAg_md9D8rtC148jGrSDOi9A-T85rW8aDkSdxlBFVg/s320/IMG_3864.JPG" width="320" /></a>Now it's time to go to the medicine store. The most famous brand in Beijing is Tong Ren Tang, where you can be sure of quality and with no fake medicine. It was started in 1669 by a senior physician to the Qing dynasty Emperor Kangxi, and is now the world's largest manufacturer of TCM.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNypmxBziVlWqlpRLarl6_jher7330QWe87ovh25zxaqCTD8A50QvT1JsHM1K16aYwX_TeS2WuAFQeI8Ytc1cWz0zNrGyOnPagIwlgqOwXQ-6EYcEJUl9bHcZEDZN0n9uPsqUVJ9TI8_M/s1600/IMG_3866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNypmxBziVlWqlpRLarl6_jher7330QWe87ovh25zxaqCTD8A50QvT1JsHM1K16aYwX_TeS2WuAFQeI8Ytc1cWz0zNrGyOnPagIwlgqOwXQ-6EYcEJUl9bHcZEDZN0n9uPsqUVJ9TI8_M/s320/IMG_3866.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHRFlevkEqMzRRwCKa6oRM8b5EuPFGu_0lOmg9qjLeZ5lI9ZMcjzygk8P-4Lf1p38orpK-TWZFjwL5qWgikfGsNC-Z8dWvLR2jAWC4jT6YqYIE22a3py2ZHouyFO_b9uqL0Y3LkcGl8k/s1600/IMG_3865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHRFlevkEqMzRRwCKa6oRM8b5EuPFGu_0lOmg9qjLeZ5lI9ZMcjzygk8P-4Lf1p38orpK-TWZFjwL5qWgikfGsNC-Z8dWvLR2jAWC4jT6YqYIE22a3py2ZHouyFO_b9uqL0Y3LkcGl8k/s320/IMG_3865.JPG" width="320" /></a>There are 13,000 different herbs that could be used. Each one of the hundreds of boxes that line a whole wall behind the counter contain a few different types of Chinese medicine, and one prescription may contain 10 to 20 different ones. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUngUxeuiu2cg5L9xR59Mokc7nhgHO3u7UpiqPoniGEB3LPacFRq_ZxeXKR_EYYvpLHeY5pJBf8q9kllfj2FVtztHDjeaVqzUUguWcBrTEOSRR5XmzYa0cHTpWzrGjOWwnBJCg0YRpq4/s1600/IMG_3867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUngUxeuiu2cg5L9xR59Mokc7nhgHO3u7UpiqPoniGEB3LPacFRq_ZxeXKR_EYYvpLHeY5pJBf8q9kllfj2FVtztHDjeaVqzUUguWcBrTEOSRR5XmzYa0cHTpWzrGjOWwnBJCg0YRpq4/s320/IMG_3867.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The prescription is made up into different batches, one for each day, with one course of treatment usually lasting one or two weeks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0VV15EbtgPjomsjeHgMrFIaJPoCaiwJswLyLpb1FuN5rhTNXajViHkIiRRxhQqFoBlVgXdVfa7ypnWVjrR_ULxPJm2T7cfnBj0sBvJHluNXZ6o668cZYgMP14XhRbyiuxTzkkt3GgXI/s1600/IMG_3870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0VV15EbtgPjomsjeHgMrFIaJPoCaiwJswLyLpb1FuN5rhTNXajViHkIiRRxhQqFoBlVgXdVfa7ypnWVjrR_ULxPJm2T7cfnBj0sBvJHluNXZ6o668cZYgMP14XhRbyiuxTzkkt3GgXI/s320/IMG_3870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Traditional Chinese scales are used to weigh out each herb. There are seeds, grasses, dried bark, dried flowers, leaves, orange peel and all sorts of other bits and pieces that I didn't recognise in this prescription. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis15iJsgI2sdBZr3UGi-3VIUgYmXUAdcNpxPmJI5eip8gGQ1nYoV7FQ77_ZN5QLmtea0UgXFLhRR_6hXWtkwai5m9WivPWfIE-H9eri47HsIpnE6TqPzZMycsTl1wf077toQhYVdI68ss/s1600/IMG_3871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis15iJsgI2sdBZr3UGi-3VIUgYmXUAdcNpxPmJI5eip8gGQ1nYoV7FQ77_ZN5QLmtea0UgXFLhRR_6hXWtkwai5m9WivPWfIE-H9eri47HsIpnE6TqPzZMycsTl1wf077toQhYVdI68ss/s320/IMG_3871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
If you are lazy, you ask the shop to "boil" the herbs for you in water, which is then sealed in plastic sachets, giving enough bitter liquid to drink 2 or 3 times a day.<br />
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However, the proper way is to take the batches home and boil up one batch freshly in a special ceramic pot every day for best effect. There's a whole tradition of boiling the first lot of water for 20 minutes, pouring the liquid off, and then boiling another lot of water for 30 minutes, then mixing the two lots and drinking through the day as prescribed by the doctor.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5quj6ra-vroPmbsxhyphenhyphenDfXbkM3u9csWBf9tJxHbqGpCjWcIZ4pZfXlPNQxtIkRysRph_qkuX2bn2rhfB_DmAfEzFDIz_LmCR5bkn71XynRr5g2nLSToZtrUtG0EssWX3uEJtsl_Zo8n3I/s1600/IMG_3872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5quj6ra-vroPmbsxhyphenhyphenDfXbkM3u9csWBf9tJxHbqGpCjWcIZ4pZfXlPNQxtIkRysRph_qkuX2bn2rhfB_DmAfEzFDIz_LmCR5bkn71XynRr5g2nLSToZtrUtG0EssWX3uEJtsl_Zo8n3I/s320/IMG_3872.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLK8sQDwa61TJRR3fVWydgiSWaku2qTjg_CVbhkuMglBtSLV_2gUH0Z7EIBsiWeGcrqMxSAewrkfzhJmgQIXtUESn8DnIzo7gkgM_0J4xSQG0eC2AbSbm88eLfjGU2BRDfn-VCqndnLc/s1600/IMG_3873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLK8sQDwa61TJRR3fVWydgiSWaku2qTjg_CVbhkuMglBtSLV_2gUH0Z7EIBsiWeGcrqMxSAewrkfzhJmgQIXtUESn8DnIzo7gkgM_0J4xSQG0eC2AbSbm88eLfjGU2BRDfn-VCqndnLc/s320/IMG_3873.JPG" width="320" /></a>Looks quite disgusting during cooking.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9HZoWtuVLfFGEhyphenhyphenNQtHkT3UYfLHnxbzfm6siDdt2NsgIFGlqatr3yqs7WY-bpiJsXomfS5UDlCxaZRDAWpCrqTmODSRVHd3wR91NtmxZ8G_PeRJBel-NU18dSGqesqjFzdavFeR80xI/s1600/IMG_3874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9HZoWtuVLfFGEhyphenhyphenNQtHkT3UYfLHnxbzfm6siDdt2NsgIFGlqatr3yqs7WY-bpiJsXomfS5UDlCxaZRDAWpCrqTmODSRVHd3wR91NtmxZ8G_PeRJBel-NU18dSGqesqjFzdavFeR80xI/s320/IMG_3874.JPG" width="240" /></a>...and doesn't taste too good either! You have to drink this not once but at least twice a day, and for at least 7 days. But there is a Chinese saying "good medicine tastes bitter" (liang yao ku kou).</div>
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ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-73922599501906621052013-05-17T17:17:00.002+08:002013-05-17T17:17:26.586+08:00Strolling down a Beijing hutong off the beaten track<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been very busy over the past few weeks. The tourist season is starting to warm up in Beijing. I've been very pleased to see old friends and also friends of friends introduced by past clients.</div>
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It's the middle of May and spring has nearly gone. Temperatures are rising again in Beijing, air conditioners are in demand, and we're all so happy when we get a sunny blue sky. I went with some friends on a stroll down a hutong recently, and it's surprising what you can find. There are some hutongs being restored and developed, but the more they become famous, the more they become commercialised and crowded. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XGFLnnnGPPk0Rz8Mc4qsM_XtQ3aZBzbncsq3OriwjFzMbK_Qyrb8l2uYKfKZjiZo5DnOxn5YgHvM8Zu8cstSgFApwRVozRgGjsN-JqtdqbXUAQYZq7i17-6oy_Av3oEnhIrcaxii6mE/s1600/IMG_3876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XGFLnnnGPPk0Rz8Mc4qsM_XtQ3aZBzbncsq3OriwjFzMbK_Qyrb8l2uYKfKZjiZo5DnOxn5YgHvM8Zu8cstSgFApwRVozRgGjsN-JqtdqbXUAQYZq7i17-6oy_Av3oEnhIrcaxii6mE/s320/IMG_3876.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This hutong is getting well known, but for now is still very quiet, look no traffic and very few people!</div>
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The street life is so varied. Here we see some neighbours (and their dog) enjoying the afternoon playing mah jong.<br />
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This little shop sells exotic products from Nepal</div>
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The guy dressed up like a Confucian master actually is a man of many talents, giving clients advice on personal and company names, feng shui for their homes and offices, marriage counselling, choosing lucky days for events.....an all-round fortune teller! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP_1LMuKOhmqFbtYFYdxOUyRZ_EUFDiODo-B8WyJN770V1y1vcP81cfauRUxqAMd48gPQKQLXrl41aQ8uqpGBZb91otgWGzFTsBBBZFmADP1tZeGD3M9IuENzrNe5t_EautVPZO_zvh8/s1600/IMG_3882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP_1LMuKOhmqFbtYFYdxOUyRZ_EUFDiODo-B8WyJN770V1y1vcP81cfauRUxqAMd48gPQKQLXrl41aQ8uqpGBZb91otgWGzFTsBBBZFmADP1tZeGD3M9IuENzrNe5t_EautVPZO_zvh8/s320/IMG_3882.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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Some grand renovated courtyard houses can be seen...but what an ugly exhaust pipe!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaTE9JIXpd11VwPxrQfX2HGkFNHIL9SZiGl6uLcX4uHkmGm-WBVE9uPZ5uPb4ib-3ntrgVTmFb8mgxcwgALShzi83tvJyMxnSmDFfVIqmLnVhQk1Cu2_mDPY7kkkl2OQ1mUKqlq21lTI/s1600/IMG_3883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaTE9JIXpd11VwPxrQfX2HGkFNHIL9SZiGl6uLcX4uHkmGm-WBVE9uPZ5uPb4ib-3ntrgVTmFb8mgxcwgALShzi83tvJyMxnSmDFfVIqmLnVhQk1Cu2_mDPY7kkkl2OQ1mUKqlq21lTI/s320/IMG_3883.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Some original stonework.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwR0Gwo-aSl3TPetw7LCV3MyKWnwyX-zETGgSvkPE3UB9NexvgBuXuL4o3Q_FZIaTbzR8YZA8lzwyVaASpMFsDy3A08AYOad3IhPm2yOEY31ivdxkw2kHzE6CVxuL6XqKh6JVS-FLne8/s1600/IMG_3884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwR0Gwo-aSl3TPetw7LCV3MyKWnwyX-zETGgSvkPE3UB9NexvgBuXuL4o3Q_FZIaTbzR8YZA8lzwyVaASpMFsDy3A08AYOad3IhPm2yOEY31ivdxkw2kHzE6CVxuL6XqKh6JVS-FLne8/s320/IMG_3884.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The Chinese character for happiness is important no matter where you live.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RyjTgDADwgn7op7-8xYLd9lG1bhK3Xc6JsEiqMhaETEi99D-7JVR7mqYazjhihTp6SoISSHWynGO1EvnJftyZu7FdROBliOO8y-4KL4dzQlRk4L2ZKPFQAO_U92No277Y2SRl-oyDUE/s1600/IMG_3885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RyjTgDADwgn7op7-8xYLd9lG1bhK3Xc6JsEiqMhaETEi99D-7JVR7mqYazjhihTp6SoISSHWynGO1EvnJftyZu7FdROBliOO8y-4KL4dzQlRk4L2ZKPFQAO_U92No277Y2SRl-oyDUE/s320/IMG_3885.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a well preserved courtyard house.......<br />
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Now used as a school....I hope the students know how lucky they are...and retired cadres' centre.</div>
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It was a Prince's mansion before, read on......!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1OIxXzqpjMVsb5mSYcfSmOnX07P_UJadNfI8f7OOgZp95J5bMux-apQerXvPjHOIKzoj-96y43VI21_nSdBW4xY5-ubtpWiJvSUL1FMc-5o5AWhoYKTWPBcKM2gXIduFCo7Qz4mkQxeQ/s1600/IMG_3889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1OIxXzqpjMVsb5mSYcfSmOnX07P_UJadNfI8f7OOgZp95J5bMux-apQerXvPjHOIKzoj-96y43VI21_nSdBW4xY5-ubtpWiJvSUL1FMc-5o5AWhoYKTWPBcKM2gXIduFCo7Qz4mkQxeQ/s320/IMG_3889.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Further down the hutong, we came across 2 quite different food shops. I'm sure you would all like the noodles but I'm not so sure about the duck blood tofu.......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmwA_cMPuICgvb35yoplDvHc4QPyDFYhH0yYMxcGzSawsYO-1cjrP9OoaqpE0W2xC8v3-9H_pEhOTdhRu3-3s5L5bOYDn8p4C_-NNNOWXVk-uTKU_DNGeAFT5tbP3m6MkWgFnuouXnsxQ/s1600/IMG_3890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmwA_cMPuICgvb35yoplDvHc4QPyDFYhH0yYMxcGzSawsYO-1cjrP9OoaqpE0W2xC8v3-9H_pEhOTdhRu3-3s5L5bOYDn8p4C_-NNNOWXVk-uTKU_DNGeAFT5tbP3m6MkWgFnuouXnsxQ/s320/IMG_3890.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
....you can always go next door for some Hong Kong style desserts.<br />
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No 46 is an old factory compound which has been turned into a contemporary arts centre.</div>
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For relaxation, these prices are very attractive. (1 USD = 6.2 yuan RMB)</div>
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A new coffee shop has opened outside No 46.</div>
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And there's more choice around the corner. It may not be cheap but it's f....g good!What more would you want!</div>
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ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-25996848378717496082013-04-08T23:11:00.000+08:002013-04-08T23:11:17.998+08:00One Day Walking Tour.....Beijing Insight Out!<div align="center" class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2270" style="text-align: center;">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2274" style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2271" lang="EN-GB">In case you are in Beijing on Sunday Apr 21st, read this event poster.......</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">BEIJING INSIGHT
OUT</span></div>
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<div align="center" class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2266" style="text-align: center;">
<i id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2349"><u id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2348"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2347" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">The first fundraising Beijing
sightseeing walking tour for queers and allies!</span></u></i></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2352" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">So you’ve been in Beijing</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> for a while but all you’ve seen so far is the Forbidden
City</span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2351" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> and
just because you thought it was some kind of red light
district?</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"></span> </div>
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2355" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">And then again you’re persuaded there’s
no</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">t</span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2354" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"> much queer
life beyond dinners, drinks and dances?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2359" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2358" style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Well it is time to
finally broaden the horizons and enjoy the warm Spring days ahead with something
different. Join us for the very first fundraising Beijing</span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2361" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> sightseeing walking
tour for queers and allies, a chance to explore known and less known places in
the big city and share a day out with a lively bunch of queer
folks</span></span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2363" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2362" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">for a good
cause! A professional English speaking guide will lead us along routes old and
new, letting us discover some still *closeted* corners of our
capital.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">The itinerary
will be as follow</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">s</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Visit</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Dongbianmen</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> Tower</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">, the last remaining Ming dynasty watchtower</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Brief tour of </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Red Gate Gallery [see July 2011 blog] </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">, for some fusion culture mixing oil on canvas, ink on rice paper</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Walk along </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Ming Wall remains</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Dongdan</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> Park</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> <u>(self catered lunch break)</u></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">, no lingering in the infamous cruising area </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 11pt;">J</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Walk along </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Dong Jiao Min Xiang (old legation quarter–</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"> buildings and</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"> St. Michael’s church)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Police</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> Museum</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> (entrance not included: 5 RMB)</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> for those who like uniforms, weapons, torture and crime</span></span></div>
</span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWhe9RjJykhhnjOEN9dLl1pXQzQWwaRG_I9MGeOIScK-kTlJpf67pj8mrya-omB3UleMVZLh2X2sg3DZJCRit122cP-sIqQLvRvJRHfKtaQyi9EU2mzFK0RdXy462gxl5Kx8iXcHxm6k/s1600/IMG_3848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWhe9RjJykhhnjOEN9dLl1pXQzQWwaRG_I9MGeOIScK-kTlJpf67pj8mrya-omB3UleMVZLh2X2sg3DZJCRit122cP-sIqQLvRvJRHfKtaQyi9EU2mzFK0RdXy462gxl5Kx8iXcHxm6k/s320/IMG_3848.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Qian Men</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5O-N7HFLQePRfy10n_gIw8vIQarmGZGioIEbb0zucj9Qvb3XDxgrgaxfABU7uekjhw2LqQ878Dxx8m-HT58hofQ4ntDZM_9ivy5l00tEyNmm8khUfNrKkhT1-w-KZRjy4DLgVfVGs-DI/s1600/IMG_3849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5O-N7HFLQePRfy10n_gIw8vIQarmGZGioIEbb0zucj9Qvb3XDxgrgaxfABU7uekjhw2LqQ878Dxx8m-HT58hofQ4ntDZM_9ivy5l00tEyNmm8khUfNrKkhT1-w-KZRjy4DLgVfVGs-DI/s320/IMG_3849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2368" type="disc"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Dashilar old commercial street: stories about Chinese arts and crafts (no, there won’t be any “encouraged” shopping!), se. Jun 2012 blog.</span></div>
</ul>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Xianyu Kou Food
Street</span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">: stories about all those weird Chinese bites (no, there
won’t be any “encouraged” eating!)</span></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">ALL THE BASIC INFOs</span></span></b></div>
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<div class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2399">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2398" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">When</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2397" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: Sunday, April 21<sup>st</sup>.
Meeting at 10.45, leaving at 11.00am (plenty of time to recover from that
Saturday hangover)</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2396">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2395" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Where</span></b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: Jianguomen subway station, </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">lines 1 and 2, </span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2394" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">exit C (south
west)</span></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2392" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">What if</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2391" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: very bad
weather/rain/Mongolian sand tornados are expected? Then we’ll reschedule and if
the date does not suit you, you will have your money back. But if the sky is
gray that won’t count, you know that is just the standard Beijing
colour.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2388">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2390" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">How long and how far</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2389" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: we expect
to be done by 6.30 ish in the evening. The itinerary is about 5 -6 km long, but
you know it’s all flat and it’s all good for your body and soul. And you’ll get
some rest during the lunch break at Dongdan Park !</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv115027252MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2385">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2387" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">How many</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2386" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: our nice
little bunch won’t count more than 20 people, queers and allies both
welcome.</span></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2381" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">How much</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2380" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: ticket is
100 RMB per person. It includes a professional English speaking guide who’ll
provide explanations, stories and answers for each stop. It does not include the
entrance to the Police Museum , but that one is very cheap. <b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2384"><u id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2383">And it’s
all for good: all the revenues will go to the Beijing LGBT center.</u></b>
That’s why it’s not refundable, once you did the good deed why would you want to
take it back? Anyway, if anything comes up, you can still re-sell or give it out
as a nice gift (if so, please let me know). </span></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2378" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">To reserve your ticket or if you have still some more
questions you can email me at </span><a href="mailto:leery78@hotmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:leery78@hotmail.com"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">leery78@hotmail.com</span></a><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2377" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> . Better not wait,
tickets are limited!</span></span></div>
<br />
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2375" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Don’t forget</span></b><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1365432060257_2374" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">: a self
catered lunch, a pair of comfy shoes and your sunshine smile. Then, it’s all set
for some good fun in good company.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="yiv115027252MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Beijing LGBT Centre</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">If interested, please write direct to the organisers, mentioning ChinaMango. No prizes for guessing who the professional English speaking guide will be. If you want a personalised individual walking tour, do let me know!</span></span></div>
ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-67805889707625187012013-04-03T16:41:00.000+08:002013-04-03T16:41:28.156+08:00A "legendary" hotel in Beijing- European style with Chinese characteristics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From the outside, you might think this was a street in Paris or London.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidfzPGoiOgIpYr0a3IEd3aiBQbbMqUlWFsWPP3rJerzOWg3dBERe3my2z2sbqdS22xzc8XCW7r_EYZdCb5Jp8niW4_jzoHJ2X5wMIwdcmCO-rKpwdExsVsqcAURQVXPHpoam9fwveywjQ/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidfzPGoiOgIpYr0a3IEd3aiBQbbMqUlWFsWPP3rJerzOWg3dBERe3my2z2sbqdS22xzc8XCW7r_EYZdCb5Jp8niW4_jzoHJ2X5wMIwdcmCO-rKpwdExsVsqcAURQVXPHpoam9fwveywjQ/s320/IMG_3304.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
However, if you look closer, you'll see it's all a copy of 19th century European architecture. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3E2hklc_cxdcSFArjy56DUPWPH8jaBmiPU4JQAJlLjirbrt1FIhksrZTZ4FxY5V-WMKirhc3IevqaJ_z2j71q6G61PGO744l6RCkW84RKLHanuIkgd4fvbQD84N3ouH8crRZPwAvOY5s/s1600/IMG_3301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3E2hklc_cxdcSFArjy56DUPWPH8jaBmiPU4JQAJlLjirbrt1FIhksrZTZ4FxY5V-WMKirhc3IevqaJ_z2j71q6G61PGO744l6RCkW84RKLHanuIkgd4fvbQD84N3ouH8crRZPwAvOY5s/s320/IMG_3301.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is a grand 5-star hotel in Beijing which opened 5 yrs ago, and worth taking a look inside, if only to get an idea of what rich Chinese think is good taste.</div>
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As one tripadvisor reviewer said "...This hotel reminds me of the old time world charm palaces. The entrance is spectacular and the atrium lobby is simply breathtaking. The spa was unbelievable...beautiful Roman marble columns with glamourous touches everywhere you look. Really stunning in many ways...." <br />
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Another guest said "..The Lobby is MASSIVE with enough marble to cover all of Italy .The unique antique French Chateau Fireplace Mantle is the Lobby eye catcher..."<br />
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Yes, so many words could be used to describe the feeling inside...classy, amazing glamour and hype, fabulous, OTT(?), palatial, imperial even....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyb0ulpJIMYrlgrqUmPt-XoLiFxysSrzJpN_6s1P5rU1G6zT2v-wVbWfO_H7QQSqNn7h5GV-qzS1Ay96cxRdWE73VRE4W3MU1dsVIzqLquQbpz0pzaMqhQldJMN4zDzY-UORWFHKNbtY/s1600/IMG_3284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyb0ulpJIMYrlgrqUmPt-XoLiFxysSrzJpN_6s1P5rU1G6zT2v-wVbWfO_H7QQSqNn7h5GV-qzS1Ay96cxRdWE73VRE4W3MU1dsVIzqLquQbpz0pzaMqhQldJMN4zDzY-UORWFHKNbtY/s320/IMG_3284.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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17-story atrium</div>
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Imagine yourself as a European King or Queen as you walk around your palace.<br />
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As their website says, "....Imported from Europe, antique furniture and decorations are featured throughout
the hotel to create a truly opulent, neo-classical ambiance. Fabrics are rich in
texture and colour creating an elegant, and instantly tactile, experience...."<br />
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Several antique pieces are on display... they wouldn't look out of place at Versailles or the Louvre!<br />
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In the shopping arcade there was even a bridal costume store.......</div>
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...which is handy if you happen to be holding your wedding party in the hotel, as this couple were, Chinese style!<br />
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The website says, "...the 746 sqm-ballroom replicates the Versailles’s magnificence and Classical
taste. Extremely spacious at the height of 6.6 m. the natural and graceful way of
decoration exposes the luxurious and unique taste. Nine shining crystal chandeliers
add to the splendor even more brightness...."<br />
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Signatures on the wedding "guestbook", not at all in classical style!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsbhcsURdonbxLWDZGZNK2cEJ3sVq-JqwyaAC5-rpRfufUSwMi4SrWU6nrKVDB2ATV0HlkV4LiqHwCg4a2cuCwDjxNUgSzDAMWnq8wiBqqL3dx3dojK0qv997sWG92vWdN7K2nBCPaag/s1600/IMG_3296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsbhcsURdonbxLWDZGZNK2cEJ3sVq-JqwyaAC5-rpRfufUSwMi4SrWU6nrKVDB2ATV0HlkV4LiqHwCg4a2cuCwDjxNUgSzDAMWnq8wiBqqL3dx3dojK0qv997sWG92vWdN7K2nBCPaag/s320/IMG_3296.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-26143947986915927952013-03-13T21:26:00.001+08:002013-03-13T21:26:09.858+08:00Flavours of North West China<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went to an interesting restaurant near my home a few days ago. It is called Xibei restaurant and those of you who know some Chinese will understand that they serve North West Chinese style food. The food is very fresh, healthy countryside food. The cuisine has more grain-based foods since they grow more grains in the north, so many different types of noodles, pancakes, dumplings and buns are found. There is also the Muslim influence from the sizeable Muslim population in the NW, especially around Xian, Lanzhou and Ningxia.</div>
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As soon as you enter you get a warm feeling from the red lanterns and folk papercuts.<br />
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And look at the colourful rural patterns of jackets worn by the staff welcoming us at the door.</div>
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As they lead us to our table we walk by traditional containers of different kinds of grain.....not just plain old rice but various beans, millet, maize and barley.</div>
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It feels as if we have entered a traditional Shaanxi village where the villagers live in caves dug out of the hillside. Here the "cave dwelings" serve as private dining rooms.</div>
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Note the "fish" hanging from the window, they symbolise a wish for a plentiful harvest.</div>
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Some more harvest produce</div>
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We start our meal with some cold starters...cucumber dipped in sauce...</div>
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....followed by cold noodles and wheat gluten in hot sauce.</div>
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Bean curd is eaten everywhere, and this type has a special texture and has a soy sauce based dipping sauce.<br />
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Lamb is a popular meat in NW China and prepared in various ways, roasted, fried, sizzling plate, and stewed.<br />
Even though there is no town by the sea in NW China, they do have freshwater fish. Here is a slow-baked fish dish which is so soft that even the bones can be eaten.<br />
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And finally I think you can't guess what this honeycomb like dish is! It comes in its wooden steamer, and is like macaroni...little circles of pasta, made from buckwheat...very good for eating with the spicy food.</div>
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That is the end of our NW China meal. You really feel like you are in a rural village but actually you are near the city centre of Beijing. If you want to try the food in its original surroundings, you could take a side tour to Xian (see Jun 2010 blog) and see the terracotta warriors at the same time. Feel free to ask me for more details.</div>
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<br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-89424642320597734452013-02-22T14:53:00.002+08:002013-02-22T14:53:33.069+08:00Happy Lantern Festival 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Feb 24th is the 15th day of the first lunar month and the first time in the year to see a full moon (if there is no smog!). It is the official end of the Chinese New Year festivities, and is marked by the Lantern Festival. In Chinese, it is called the "yuan xiao" festival, and we all get together as families and eat small sweet dumplings, called yuan xiao, on that day.</div>
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One can see many lanterns hung up and children playing outdoors with all kinds and colours of lanterns, some to be floated up into the sky with their personal wishes or new year resolutions. </div>
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To mark this happy occasion, I have taken some pictures of different designs of Chinese lanterns you can find in the market for home decoration.</div>
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<span id="goog_1711583588"><span id="goog_253804504"></span><span id="goog_253804505"></span></span><br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-1133987440807690002013-02-10T11:45:00.000+08:002013-02-10T11:45:27.633+08:00Happy New Year of the Snake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is the first day of the year of the water snake. Snakes are not generally liked, feared even, and this year may have its share of unhappy incidents as in previous snake years, such as Pearl Harbour Attack1941, 9/11 Tiananmen incident 1989, or even the Great Depression of 1929. <br />
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Many "experts" have been making their predictions. Feng shui master Mak Ling-ling predicts the stock markets will enjoy a smooth first-half before becoming turbulent in the second half of the year. Look at all the gold ( and longevity peaches) in the picture above. "It's just like the movement of snakes -- fast, aggressive and sharp, but cunning and tricky at the same time," she tells AFP.<br />
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Let's hope all goes smoothly for all of us, including the next Chinese President Xi Jinping who was born in a snake year (1953), as was Chairman Mao. Were you born in the Year of the Snake (...1941, 1953, 1965, 1977..)? Then according to China Daily, you are charming, popular, analytical, sociable, but not very communicative, and....well you can see the other characteristics, good and bad in this link: <a href="http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2013-02/06/content_16206209_7.htm">http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2013-02/06/content_16206209_7.htm</a><br />
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The snake pictures in this blog come in different shapes and sizes, but mostly are drawn with friendly faces to make them more likeable!<br />
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We had our traditional family dinner last night of too much food (including home made dumplings), and watched the 4 hr CCTV show, with the noise of fireworks in the background. There were less fireworks let off this year after the government reminded us the pollution index in Beijing would still be quite high these days - after all no one wants the smog to come back!<br />
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Snake years are sixth in the cycle, following the dragon. So how did the snake get into the zodiac in the first place? According to China Daily, legend has it, long ago, snakes and frogs were friends. Snakes had four legs then while frogs didn't. Crawling frogs worked very hard, not only did they seek food for snakes but also caught pests for human beings. Therefore human beings liked frogs and hated snakes.<br />
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Snakes then turned vicious, they would bite human beings and animals whenever they got the chance. The Jade Emperor in heaven tried to persuade the snakes to be kind, but the arrogant snakes refused, so he ordered his soldiers to cut off all snakes' legs and give them to the frogs. Now with four legs, frogs became more hard-working. Legless snakes, determined to make a change, began eating pests for human beings and to combat floods from dragons. They offered their body as medicine to treat patients.<br />
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In order to encourage snakes to do more good, the Jade Emperor put them into the Chinese zodiac list - sixth in the cycle, following the dragon. After that, snakes didn't attack human beings all of the time, but if they did, occasionally driven by evil, they would cast off a layer of skin to show their determination to restart being kind. But snakes have always held a grudge against frogs, biting whenever the two meet.<br />
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Whatever the case, it's a time for family reunions and celebrations all over the country. I will have a rest for a couple of days and then my first clients of the year arrive in Beijing. <br />
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Thank you all for your help and support during the outgoing Year of the Dragon, and I wish all of you and your families all health and happiness during the incoming Year of the Snake.<br />
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ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-59777937562842702342013-01-30T19:33:00.000+08:002013-01-30T19:33:13.568+08:00Another "antique" market Gaobeidian<div class="mobile-photo">
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This is my first blog of 2013, a rather late Happy New Year and early Gong Xi Fa Cai for Chinese New Year to you all!<br />
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I have been busy travelling since early January, and am writing this from Thailand. We first went to a prizegiving in Guangzhou in connection with the HIV/AIDS Trust work I'm doing, and then went to Bangkok and Chiang Mai to see old friends, to get away from the cold weather and also to relax.<br />
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We were lucky to escape the smog in Beijing so far, but not sure what it will be like when we get back on Feb 2nd.</div>
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Meanwhile, here are some random pictures from a visit to Gaobeidian on the outskirts of Beijing. This 'market' is like a long street full of different kinds of shops. It is not crowded so more relaxing than visiting Panjiayuan.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg62-gZLj4IgiNuKqUi6pxA5z-bWFRCwWFD9j3RBYzvypGRPtrd70IqPqzkV4r2jJ48EiA5BxT5tAhA3yG87m5syCf6mYuwcgmXgk0MiTOdd3P-U6hBr41WlL0l8l6M2Ki_-mu3ntAJgc/s1600/IMG_3081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg62-gZLj4IgiNuKqUi6pxA5z-bWFRCwWFD9j3RBYzvypGRPtrd70IqPqzkV4r2jJ48EiA5BxT5tAhA3yG87m5syCf6mYuwcgmXgk0MiTOdd3P-U6hBr41WlL0l8l6M2Ki_-mu3ntAJgc/s320/IMG_3081.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-lxeMEsu6zeSEQaRygRegsDkBCyCFlNFAPpQo7OvfVPK43clINV8Gi88YGi-Z3V5DJkqT8NueePFka_WqZZ76FQpRw4ZJh8hi5RmTFwjCo3fC1B0_Y988NW6C0mQDNf4WUC2fPoklg8/s1600/IMG_3084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-lxeMEsu6zeSEQaRygRegsDkBCyCFlNFAPpQo7OvfVPK43clINV8Gi88YGi-Z3V5DJkqT8NueePFka_WqZZ76FQpRw4ZJh8hi5RmTFwjCo3fC1B0_Y988NW6C0mQDNf4WUC2fPoklg8/s320/IMG_3084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Take a look!</div>
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That's me relaxing!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2roo6TOu_xV_UWOA74WKnJOdwaEtZVQpVH0lPyrax6gBG4eG-ZWEhRnyyH_qVG7MQgjw253OY7jHtfJh7mFRbi2t6Asz_5H82y1TKewngs-3vMaEpOv__dqa6wgJHmLkyHA_1gsdBTY/s1600/IMG_3165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2roo6TOu_xV_UWOA74WKnJOdwaEtZVQpVH0lPyrax6gBG4eG-ZWEhRnyyH_qVG7MQgjw253OY7jHtfJh7mFRbi2t6Asz_5H82y1TKewngs-3vMaEpOv__dqa6wgJHmLkyHA_1gsdBTY/s320/IMG_3165.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Antiques yes, but of course not just from China. This old horse drawn carriage is from Belgium they said.<br />
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Renovating an old door frame.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29JbruKqcgsoJOxkNwQO4dCEwQXOeB-eubLfT8Qf0ROFdyGtA-zZbE-OU_lpvbfiMuDPDkaPT_6wU_c775YzIHORGmZFArf3-6F8EDlJFfzDSdsmvybZZy1cDdtD8qekUhXKTT2jkim0/s1600/IMG_3162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29JbruKqcgsoJOxkNwQO4dCEwQXOeB-eubLfT8Qf0ROFdyGtA-zZbE-OU_lpvbfiMuDPDkaPT_6wU_c775YzIHORGmZFArf3-6F8EDlJFfzDSdsmvybZZy1cDdtD8qekUhXKTT2jkim0/s320/IMG_3162.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A bit different from the traditional male and female tigers found at doorways.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8rx_ERCMgQyfCuyW6URSol_AgofZyeVQd7ie8nXh57RWsMVhKh2d5mBlIR7vP2V_5RStp-DlRyIKeBqMXDyavSmUN8uiC7_zGA5tYNJ2yNpV5ICy0fc1tV-7SNJFWZKaC7Ukc6BlxJk/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8rx_ERCMgQyfCuyW6URSol_AgofZyeVQd7ie8nXh57RWsMVhKh2d5mBlIR7vP2V_5RStp-DlRyIKeBqMXDyavSmUN8uiC7_zGA5tYNJ2yNpV5ICy0fc1tV-7SNJFWZKaC7Ukc6BlxJk/s320/IMG_3082.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Traditional heavy wooden furniture - not suitable for small apartments and not that comfortable either!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4ImXXS1ImCyX9y4uU6VS6Y74DJp8T3cFRhwbW86bUOfmvTg-IB_vUU_EO8zPVyNK4AfAWpiofR2f5gPN828LGU5xHFEmuioRR8fajRnPRDfWkpvqHRG-ssQLhqx4kA9g7IEjSwvA5MM/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4ImXXS1ImCyX9y4uU6VS6Y74DJp8T3cFRhwbW86bUOfmvTg-IB_vUU_EO8zPVyNK4AfAWpiofR2f5gPN828LGU5xHFEmuioRR8fajRnPRDfWkpvqHRG-ssQLhqx4kA9g7IEjSwvA5MM/s320/IMG_3087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Certainly not Chinese!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAqxuJojFQIL-BuacbC7yiHd6qbXziInnwAcRVNwgly4Mr975AD1iijqu1vXqff0DlPuHAyS8Vp6dy9QGsn7ZRAl3ZCRO_z91Zpe5qeVQOSFjDOG8BB28MUTw5r2N8bVqVqtbua_bjA0/s1600/IMG_3088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAqxuJojFQIL-BuacbC7yiHd6qbXziInnwAcRVNwgly4Mr975AD1iijqu1vXqff0DlPuHAyS8Vp6dy9QGsn7ZRAl3ZCRO_z91Zpe5qeVQOSFjDOG8BB28MUTw5r2N8bVqVqtbua_bjA0/s320/IMG_3088.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Traditional stone panel with the God of Longevity.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjdIIzQoZGFM8iJpv6xr-M_MGZGIMdEsdyLRgOWBdDbAXDmVG0Pw-gdOL71JRB0-W3DCSIj7MCHfpzoWerPDdGRNLUjkSzEdIrT36Vx-jPRCw1Ly2U_lwrFm58Ees8PW7sb6S1d2JwA4/s1600/IMG_3093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjdIIzQoZGFM8iJpv6xr-M_MGZGIMdEsdyLRgOWBdDbAXDmVG0Pw-gdOL71JRB0-W3DCSIj7MCHfpzoWerPDdGRNLUjkSzEdIrT36Vx-jPRCw1Ly2U_lwrFm58Ees8PW7sb6S1d2JwA4/s320/IMG_3093.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Need a door fixture?<br />
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Wooden panels for a screen.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDweahcH0Dw5o0EZ3IzOG-QYb_DHxXoctjunwh6kCvLgTDOus2OZfm_4t3jef-c1QpJd_1Ew1Wpavdbt0JwVNiXJcaUodntimBj6OHPu1usAygLXZ_rBuofPOPGgZhRZ4cd4KJr3xAf8/s1600/IMG_3090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDweahcH0Dw5o0EZ3IzOG-QYb_DHxXoctjunwh6kCvLgTDOus2OZfm_4t3jef-c1QpJd_1Ew1Wpavdbt0JwVNiXJcaUodntimBj6OHPu1usAygLXZ_rBuofPOPGgZhRZ4cd4KJr3xAf8/s320/IMG_3090.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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There are always fakes around!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDPhHgY_DVmO8Mq7s5xeS2P-rzaazAfYTulMHV8Zu1bfwSw2KnNhmv1vzh4cFwX1uSo5oITDg5Zhe1BFL61OMxrRQ3tDuGUaWVzmU2xqoqejGup0WPTeeOhCWaAznqUvClPztGzn0N-4/s1600/IMG_3089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDPhHgY_DVmO8Mq7s5xeS2P-rzaazAfYTulMHV8Zu1bfwSw2KnNhmv1vzh4cFwX1uSo5oITDg5Zhe1BFL61OMxrRQ3tDuGUaWVzmU2xqoqejGup0WPTeeOhCWaAznqUvClPztGzn0N-4/s320/IMG_3089.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Learning on the job at an early age.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aHEn_B1DOqFIzxe3DT28Ez83Z2MXRSRXGMQq0BbQGDdXdb8g_vcnIZ9HqWL1N-IJQgAJt3ZJJ8_Vua7utMTVF0oovxitHTNFINfNEyE-jja8PJaDcNAEgEojqE0iDljetJGusmiFWZ4/s1600/IMG_3104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aHEn_B1DOqFIzxe3DT28Ez83Z2MXRSRXGMQq0BbQGDdXdb8g_vcnIZ9HqWL1N-IJQgAJt3ZJJ8_Vua7utMTVF0oovxitHTNFINfNEyE-jja8PJaDcNAEgEojqE0iDljetJGusmiFWZ4/s320/IMG_3104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lucky Dragon.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-yXZQCimMEkLiUIH9NVAqEAuZIzRsQYzIOfj_sKLW7xZHJTJuILRkNzrWtErpBu6Mhb71dDp4q8Z4sVWT6_Pqcl0uiVqgjpt_xMebRa7w8tYZIwzXRlYpF6eopSA9RifU3j2wUp97pg/s1600/IMG_3109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-yXZQCimMEkLiUIH9NVAqEAuZIzRsQYzIOfj_sKLW7xZHJTJuILRkNzrWtErpBu6Mhb71dDp4q8Z4sVWT6_Pqcl0uiVqgjpt_xMebRa7w8tYZIwzXRlYpF6eopSA9RifU3j2wUp97pg/s320/IMG_3109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Or perhaps you prefer a bull?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp6md89WDEPI7ZWiCns2jZUKltiU-2XcNklORA0CqEwqfwQOMB6G8KWGc3dTTdZntolAM-x6jB-F51WN9x3aqaX85IlsQUpI7ta3I-zmDQBE_GXYVqwx-dv3OwMoQwE_eSgwOu-GjpOg/s1600/IMG_3110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp6md89WDEPI7ZWiCns2jZUKltiU-2XcNklORA0CqEwqfwQOMB6G8KWGc3dTTdZntolAM-x6jB-F51WN9x3aqaX85IlsQUpI7ta3I-zmDQBE_GXYVqwx-dv3OwMoQwE_eSgwOu-GjpOg/s320/IMG_3110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg62-gZLj4IgiNuKqUi6pxA5z-bWFRCwWFD9j3RBYzvypGRPtrd70IqPqzkV4r2jJ48EiA5BxT5tAhA3yG87m5syCf6mYuwcgmXgk0MiTOdd3P-U6hBr41WlL0l8l6M2Ki_-mu3ntAJgc/s320/IMG_3081.JPG" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 301px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 612px; visibility: hidden;" width="72" />That's me relaxing again, all this window shopping is hard work.ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-56111390856823996172012-12-31T15:30:00.001+08:002012-12-31T15:30:11.024+08:008 Trends in China 2013 to Keep an Eye On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy New (Western) Year to you all!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Article below for those interested in predictions for China's development next year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">By</span></span> <a class="url fn" href="http://dealbook.nytimes.com/author/bill-bishop/" title="See all posts by BILL BISHOP">BILL BISHOP</a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">from NY Times, Dec 12, 2012.</span></span></h1>
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<img alt="WELL WIRED The number of Internet users in China is expected to pass 600 million in 2013." height="330" id="100000001945696" src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2012/12/12/business/dealbook/12CHINA2/12-CHINA2-tmagArticle.jpg" width="592" /></div>
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<span class="credit">Agence France-Presse — Getty Images</span></div>
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<span class="credit"> </span><strong>WELL WIRED</strong> The number of Internet users in China is expected to pass 600 million in 2013.</div>
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<span class="caption">The Bo Xilai scandal, an economic downturn and the leadership switch from Hu Jintao to Xi Jinping made 2012 one of China’s most eventful years. It is hard to imagine that next year will be as exciting, but there will be change.<br />
Here are eight likely trends for 2013:</span></div>
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<strong>SHIFT IN GROWTH</strong> The economy is rebounding after slowing sharply through the first three quarters of 2012. The recovery is mostly stimulus-driven and heavily weighted toward state-owned enterprises and large industrial companies. The 2013 official target for economic growth is expected to be set at 7.5 percent. The economy should meet it, although excessive debt, a bloated state sector, entrenched special interests, income disparity, rural-urban inequality and lagging corporate profits will remain problems. Expect increased emphasis on the quality of growth, urbanization and rural reform as well as some painful progress in rebalancing from overinvestment to consumption-driven growth.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">NEW LEADER</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Xi Jinping has moved quickly in his first three weeks to project an image of change. The government faces a growing expectations gap with its citizens and needs to rebuild public confidence. Mr. Xi is talking a lot about the Chinese dream and the “great renewal of the Chinese nation” — nationalist concepts with significant appeal. Mr. Xi’s choice of Shenzhen for his first domestic inspection trip is a symbolic tribute to Deng Xiaoping’s 1992 southern tour that restarted reforms after 1989. Mr. Xi’s visit is most likely a signal that he is serious about pushing forward with changes. Expect renewed energy around overhauls, primarily economic and administrative but possibly some political ones.</span></h5>
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<img alt="CORRUPTION FOE Xi Jinping, China’s new party leader, has promised to be vigilant against graft." height="200" id="100000001945693" src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2012/12/12/business/dealbook/12CHINA1/12-CHINA1-articleInline.jpg" width="190" /><span class="credit">Vincent Yu/Associated Press</span></div>
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<span class="caption"><strong>CORRUPTION FOE</strong> Xi Jinping, China’s new party leader, has promised to be vigilant against graft.</span></div>
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<strong>CRACKDOWN ON CORRUPTION</strong> The new leadership has begun a public crackdown on corruption. One relatively senior official and several minor officials have already fallen. Internet exposés brought down the minor officials, but there are reports that the Communist Party’s central disciplinary inspection commission has started new investigations into money laundering through Macau. Expect this antigraft campaign to ensnare more senior officials and to be the most effective in recent memory, yet ultimately stop short of addressing the systemic issues that have allowed corruption to flourish.<br />
<strong>TROUBLE WITH THE NEIGHBORS</strong> China’s external environment is increasingly complex. Mr. Xi is likely to work hard on maintaining stable relations with the United States, while at the same time expanding China’s military capabilities and asserting its regional interests. China has unsettled its neighbors with its approach to the disputes over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea and the various islands in the South China Sea. Both issues look intractable, so a solution is unlikely in 2013. Expect a quickening arms race in Asia, increasingly nationalist rhetoric, continued tensions with Japan, Vietnam and the Philippines and growing risks of misunderstandings — and possible mishaps — as the various countries send more vessels into the disputed areas.<br />
<strong>NOT EASY BEING GREEN</strong> China has some of the worst environmental problems in the world, and they increasingly pose a threat to social stability. The leadership is aware of the problems, and the report from the 18th Communist Party Congress included a section calling for improving the environment. Expect increased emphasis on clean energy, conservation and green growth, though the challenges are so huge that it is hard to be optimistic.<br />
<strong>RISING ACTIVISM</strong> Environmental issues are leading to political activism. In 2012 China had several not-in-my-backyard protests involving thousands of people, many of whom mobilized online. Social media use, especially via smartphones, is rapidly expanding from urban to rural users and is making it much harder to cover up problems. The government now requires that all major industrial projects pass a social risk assessment before they begin. Expect more environmental protests as citizens become more aware of their rights and are emboldened to protect them.<br />
<strong>INTERNET PRESSURE</strong> China has the most Internet users in the world. At some point in 2013 its population on the Internet will exceed 600 million people. China has a sophisticated Internet censorship and filtering system that is unlikely to disappear. But that does not mean the Internet will not pressure the government. Cheap smartphones with good cameras and 3G connectivity are proliferating, in large part thanks to Google’s Android mobile operating system.<br />
China is expected to have several hundred million smartphone users by the end of 2013. The Internet is unlikely to bring change to the system, certainly. But all those smartphone-wielding, social media-savvy citizens will force a more accountable authoritarianism. Expect more scandals to break online and increasingly responsive, accountable government at all levels.<br />
<strong>OVERSEAS INVESTMENT</strong> Chinese companies are going global, by expanding their operations overseas and by acquiring foreign firms. Yet Chinese investment is a contentious issue in the United States and other developed countries, and several deals failed in 2012 at the hands of regulators. Huawei, a Chinese networking and telecommunications giant, is effectively blocked from doing business in the United States because of security concerns.<br />
Regardless, Chinese companies will continue to invest overseas, both to increase and to secure resources. Tencent, for one, is on the verge of becoming China’s first globally competitive Internet company.<br />
Its WeChat mobile social networking application already has more than 200 million users and may give Facebook a run for its money in many developing countries. Expect growing overseas investment, increasing political scrutiny of Chinese deals and possibly invitations to WeChat from your social networking friends.<br />
All in all, Mr. Xi appears to be a change-oriented nationalist. His energetic and straightforward style, his apparent commitment to fighting corruption and his determination to reinvigorate at least economic reform should buy the government time to tackle some of China’s difficult problems in 2013.<br />
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<div class="shortbio">
<em>Bill Bishop publishes the daily <a href="http://sinocism.com/">Sinocism China Newsletter</a> from Beijing. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/@niubi">@niubi</a> and Sina Weibo <a href="http://weibo.com/niubishop">@billbishop</a>. </em></div>
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ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-71171600292851413902012-12-16T11:51:00.000+08:002012-12-16T11:51:06.952+08:00Another Market in the grounds of a TempleEveryone knows about the Panjiayuan Market (see blog Nov 2010), but there is a smaller market which is also interesting and less touristy, Baoguosi Market. The best day to go is Thursdays.<br />
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Now it may look as if you're going in to another temple (oh no not another one, I can hear some of you say!), and you would be right, but the grounds have been taken over by many, many sellers of all sorts of "antiques".</div>
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It's best to go as early in the morning as you can. If you haven't had breakfast you can join the other keen buyers for some noodles .....</div>
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....or the famous "jian bing", a kind of freshly made pancake Chinese style.</div>
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Once you're inside you'll see all kinds of things on sale, some very cheap like the lucky dip items below.</div>
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It's not as crowded as Panjiayuan but smaller in size.<br />
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and the temple buildings and trees make a nice environment for strolling around.</div>
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There was only one foreign tourist the day I went, and that was a client of mine!<br />
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We met a familiar person greeting us....</div>
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he was all over the place....the poster reads Long Live Chairman Mao!<br />
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The old red badges are now collectors' items, and come in all shapes and sizes.</div>
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This one is big enough to fit on your mantelpiece.</div>
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Then there are some more valuable items such as this cloisonne clock.<br />
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How do you like this old locomotive which acts as clock, barometer and temperature gauge?<br />
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Not quite sure what these animals are, probably a pair of Chinese dragons.<br />
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Another unusual clock!<br />
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And finally definitely not an antique.....can you see what it is?...yes, a model of London sights in honour of the 2012 Olympics.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0VxwG_SZN9O3KW2lENzcWvv4KqZ_sdar1fX_VaAUVeNFnrVI_CN9TQdJ-XKVYQuI6eH4Zg7eloUt1_PMpQmq8mFU4WfQKMvUAm2vFjvdsWn8QmiV-ow_WphpRPWJiSRhdlGqP_Na4Mg/s1600/IMG_3630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0VxwG_SZN9O3KW2lENzcWvv4KqZ_sdar1fX_VaAUVeNFnrVI_CN9TQdJ-XKVYQuI6eH4Zg7eloUt1_PMpQmq8mFU4WfQKMvUAm2vFjvdsWn8QmiV-ow_WphpRPWJiSRhdlGqP_Na4Mg/s320/IMG_3630.JPG" width="320" /></a>There's still time to come and do some Christmas Shopping!</div>
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Season's Greetings to you all and your families, talk again next year!</div>
ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-57344742519553165992012-11-22T21:31:00.000+08:002012-11-22T21:31:05.594+08:00Weird and wonderful papercuts by Siberian butterfly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This blog is not for young children! </div>
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Happy Thanksgiving to my US friends!</div>
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I went to an unusual art exhibition held earlier this year in Beijing, combining traditional papercutting with erotic fantasies of the artist. I think I don't need to say anything else, just let your imagination go wild as the pictures speak for themselves. If you think you see some naughty bits, it's either all in the mind, or really there, or both! I don't think I'll be giving any of these to my mother.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg598pbms6xpc_rGx9Y-9iSyjND59Iyf0wer8tLxINAu9QsRJ-mNMw6MRilHTSit4_Vr5bMsZep0oBtDwoabHZObgZu-s5LmeRUHme33dfJog37UmP-Ry2CTqwz87mXi2aNM226PssjzNU/s1600/IMG_3069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg598pbms6xpc_rGx9Y-9iSyjND59Iyf0wer8tLxINAu9QsRJ-mNMw6MRilHTSit4_Vr5bMsZep0oBtDwoabHZObgZu-s5LmeRUHme33dfJog37UmP-Ry2CTqwz87mXi2aNM226PssjzNU/s320/IMG_3069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2bqclWsj_v6b9OfQ4snFLKyxdOCgPODV8CooOfur-SPB08tzXFcxFWL_Ygi0_6f31nG-3WDboEv_ajXsBcU1jW1HAo2elP_gvlSsRd-YswoYVfhRNIY4JO23nPNRoL2LcHsLRtOZ3aQ/s1600/IMG_3078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2bqclWsj_v6b9OfQ4snFLKyxdOCgPODV8CooOfur-SPB08tzXFcxFWL_Ygi0_6f31nG-3WDboEv_ajXsBcU1jW1HAo2elP_gvlSsRd-YswoYVfhRNIY4JO23nPNRoL2LcHsLRtOZ3aQ/s320/IMG_3078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB4M2JPkO1BO3nh1mPyNyU5BBaD-ENTtNDRl_oltIjdNEqxaKe1UAd5-Wav6ODb6jFbIKWwUhw3dRajSyK-Z01YXEt-5JVUOxbOWPrg8kMpFscGnTZyjlDFxruPWov8iMjnC70PoOydE/s1600/IMG_3071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB4M2JPkO1BO3nh1mPyNyU5BBaD-ENTtNDRl_oltIjdNEqxaKe1UAd5-Wav6ODb6jFbIKWwUhw3dRajSyK-Z01YXEt-5JVUOxbOWPrg8kMpFscGnTZyjlDFxruPWov8iMjnC70PoOydE/s320/IMG_3071.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-50956045098702057052012-11-04T20:58:00.001+08:002012-11-04T20:58:24.796+08:00More views of Hong Kong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Hong Kong Chinese are very entrepreneurial, and can make money doing all sorts of business....</div>
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However, I'm not sure how well this company is doing with its design projects.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsDd5YlDQozSYC9eQ4crpyPMbQ0E__fXKunrOJcuYeaP4uJnWT6Q4mBHMCJak4-rtfsYTf9-73cM1Jji3IgKWh3avYsPteCbG_FjaCbX6X73ZFMWyJvNnZFG-_VuqSgdl0OVzkoPKpDQ/s1600/IMG_2931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsDd5YlDQozSYC9eQ4crpyPMbQ0E__fXKunrOJcuYeaP4uJnWT6Q4mBHMCJak4-rtfsYTf9-73cM1Jji3IgKWh3avYsPteCbG_FjaCbX6X73ZFMWyJvNnZFG-_VuqSgdl0OVzkoPKpDQ/s320/IMG_2931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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........here they are recycling used mobile phones, iPads, etc, probably to make some cheaper imitation ones. Be warned! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNpS-NBExB7Zi4Ee_t_JnaU104GPNceQwtDvljQl1xetcckmgbmJz7CwqwIjdJ7ETNVeJVYNhSLrz1KbHfBxy35AebivgqdhnUb08cCPKoLDO7zGGvgsuHkI9uch1WmP9zblUQPW7zrQ/s1600/IMG_2960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNpS-NBExB7Zi4Ee_t_JnaU104GPNceQwtDvljQl1xetcckmgbmJz7CwqwIjdJ7ETNVeJVYNhSLrz1KbHfBxy35AebivgqdhnUb08cCPKoLDO7zGGvgsuHkI9uch1WmP9zblUQPW7zrQ/s320/IMG_2960.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Of course there are plenty of shopping malls and pedestrian streets, this one is in Causeway Bay.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_mkrRt3ZzRTjAIYV1fy6-VVJEvkM81d9H4Vltyled9WVLZKwj4cUdvvBgA4eS8H1-XtsiJx2l2c7hO8nldpybZpC-ZFDS3Bk0pjBEWilvtjsOZGNS8wIIwEfyhQr9W_YwmSp78vBbnU/s1600/IMG_2962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_mkrRt3ZzRTjAIYV1fy6-VVJEvkM81d9H4Vltyled9WVLZKwj4cUdvvBgA4eS8H1-XtsiJx2l2c7hO8nldpybZpC-ZFDS3Bk0pjBEWilvtjsOZGNS8wIIwEfyhQr9W_YwmSp78vBbnU/s320/IMG_2962.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The subway system is super efficient, so it's so easy and fast to get around.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOF0Gbu46-uVw9pdVTcXUtAOVMWeS-pVWxDicQpozUoVtkPJNrYC3Tsr2hWH9vzlOc18fyX1S-yiQRuaIah9j_KleEq0m_a9_YhwqdC7p5jvMX3HZbAR67p4Mge_Ybsk1ZNqV9K9e_5Wc/s1600/IMG_2964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOF0Gbu46-uVw9pdVTcXUtAOVMWeS-pVWxDicQpozUoVtkPJNrYC3Tsr2hWH9vzlOc18fyX1S-yiQRuaIah9j_KleEq0m_a9_YhwqdC7p5jvMX3HZbAR67p4Mge_Ybsk1ZNqV9K9e_5Wc/s320/IMG_2964.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I like this shop window which is promoting travel around the world!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhVtw_vDftpI95im1V8uG2Nx-WaBWwphNdCxHEVHgWDnwOzo9pjftv418OHXK8LTujzdOPmYm5bm-WRN9UJrqNa3KTczo-R8QUTtOpoy_kFFBCYV-jQtNH8gzfkL3o2z1QMSNZtfyKcs/s1600/IMG_2969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhVtw_vDftpI95im1V8uG2Nx-WaBWwphNdCxHEVHgWDnwOzo9pjftv418OHXK8LTujzdOPmYm5bm-WRN9UJrqNa3KTczo-R8QUTtOpoy_kFFBCYV-jQtNH8gzfkL3o2z1QMSNZtfyKcs/s320/IMG_2969.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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No explanation needed....cheaper than Beijing!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPE-qqEHmx1QlXiY39PN1Q4032SC77mC33NNqevN9cai2JosTJBCDrlOFt03uI5I7Jcw4rY159TYojdfbA2fgOt59qcMJxfJ32PQL4fNi4L6GTcHexLodp0XamGgQN7B8v6IZNaa38Ps/s1600/IMG_2970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPE-qqEHmx1QlXiY39PN1Q4032SC77mC33NNqevN9cai2JosTJBCDrlOFt03uI5I7Jcw4rY159TYojdfbA2fgOt59qcMJxfJ32PQL4fNi4L6GTcHexLodp0XamGgQN7B8v6IZNaa38Ps/s320/IMG_2970.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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You probably also recognise some famous brand names in these street signs on Nathan Road, but did you notice the one from Beijing? I was very happy to see this Chinese medicine store.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMmgdjIcANBY3dFErk7M4a1W2Y2rxZgHHt7dX_EXAieqLwwPbAfxdQFL2OhjFLe9QNjBn02OYlvavpg-kS3JTTNJIHzh00ZXKiJeTpoOQ7hgbYe9LOPh7EkDOIqWmpR5h89cGF-htPI4/s1600/IMG_2972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMmgdjIcANBY3dFErk7M4a1W2Y2rxZgHHt7dX_EXAieqLwwPbAfxdQFL2OhjFLe9QNjBn02OYlvavpg-kS3JTTNJIHzh00ZXKiJeTpoOQ7hgbYe9LOPh7EkDOIqWmpR5h89cGF-htPI4/s320/IMG_2972.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A mammoth exhibition in a shopping mall has people queuing up.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3dDg79Ztph6a2eVCnq3FuylDoi0zl1PQrpGIxH3JXAB8TNJEN-rzN_0U7WMi96Z3B0dGt-rj6IwJfa7wZj7Ay7mCBsjGs-9DA9MOYDdfclH3hYfYgZh2W83m1IgUxl0uvco4XogNNQg/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3dDg79Ztph6a2eVCnq3FuylDoi0zl1PQrpGIxH3JXAB8TNJEN-rzN_0U7WMi96Z3B0dGt-rj6IwJfa7wZj7Ay7mCBsjGs-9DA9MOYDdfclH3hYfYgZh2W83m1IgUxl0uvco4XogNNQg/s320/IMG_2981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And even more queuing up at the local Apple store...even before iPhone5<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFoPQywpHu4pY01GL6OHM_L4fr7U_8p0gT560gjMD_WzWDRscj4c2YtfB_eyDzXzu7s0BoCHWgkmyf_V_GiGZmfn-SF03E72qRRfCe7pKATAxVdL5Xqk3nJx25ERFL52fyN8u3IsiSaI/s1600/IMG_2988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFoPQywpHu4pY01GL6OHM_L4fr7U_8p0gT560gjMD_WzWDRscj4c2YtfB_eyDzXzu7s0BoCHWgkmyf_V_GiGZmfn-SF03E72qRRfCe7pKATAxVdL5Xqk3nJx25ERFL52fyN8u3IsiSaI/s320/IMG_2988.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A touch of history...the old Central Pier which was relocated to this new location.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRl5FnzQH5fcJfOckjhPKmT0SvaJr57SInlXoneApfzVbHNzlaQYVkv0hHR00CfPY588h_0ZQSUUPKu882TBbygFhVFuzRYYvkzXAHidpEQ7AcIoD_22TVud8MaKzzc119lqkfqFF41N0/s1600/IMG_2990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRl5FnzQH5fcJfOckjhPKmT0SvaJr57SInlXoneApfzVbHNzlaQYVkv0hHR00CfPY588h_0ZQSUUPKu882TBbygFhVFuzRYYvkzXAHidpEQ7AcIoD_22TVud8MaKzzc119lqkfqFF41N0/s320/IMG_2990.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And for those of you from UK, a touch of old England! Soho's in London, right? Yes but here it means "SOuth of HOllywood (Road)".<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLHqYiUJDkvqSHpUCQ7OiPHzg4qsjlSJQxqZcTn8TLQ08zMJ2webykoz1KeXQW_aPFnC_T9_YteCDtt5oVEfswnVUEUIwdMYvh08KEmGEnfxjblk7gdTwxhEiqdK6k8buQ3MBeg-jX2Nw/s1600/IMG_3001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLHqYiUJDkvqSHpUCQ7OiPHzg4qsjlSJQxqZcTn8TLQ08zMJ2webykoz1KeXQW_aPFnC_T9_YteCDtt5oVEfswnVUEUIwdMYvh08KEmGEnfxjblk7gdTwxhEiqdK6k8buQ3MBeg-jX2Nw/s320/IMG_3001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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.........looks familiar?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZG27xkFNZ866g4MSuuypmpDTRveyGKQ73h0cC0yWDKD-zAMODdrlqPYyTQyLu4xBxApMk170rN0C5A6HMvRewU6UFa0-5KwrxboZLkJO1GDGFaQdJMpdduVxMY2P6GwI399_3ZcKzpk/s1600/IMG_3005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZG27xkFNZ866g4MSuuypmpDTRveyGKQ73h0cC0yWDKD-zAMODdrlqPYyTQyLu4xBxApMk170rN0C5A6HMvRewU6UFa0-5KwrxboZLkJO1GDGFaQdJMpdduVxMY2P6GwI399_3ZcKzpk/s320/IMG_3005.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8azRxZFm2nKAfiP4WPQZB3Ij0RZSGuvIc8Q3g97VMhLnd1d3fobKPWfqgzWD5yNq1MZFUnQJEnoi3fzdBifmi6Nr9nzggGkSF2MlUTpISQ4cSAHm2q3ihvWT3Xyz_t7wPi3vbp_APM8o/s1600/IMG_3006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Time for afternoon tea.....if you haven't got time to wait for a table at the Peninsula, or the money, try the Portobello in Soho!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8azRxZFm2nKAfiP4WPQZB3Ij0RZSGuvIc8Q3g97VMhLnd1d3fobKPWfqgzWD5yNq1MZFUnQJEnoi3fzdBifmi6Nr9nzggGkSF2MlUTpISQ4cSAHm2q3ihvWT3Xyz_t7wPi3vbp_APM8o/s1600/IMG_3006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8azRxZFm2nKAfiP4WPQZB3Ij0RZSGuvIc8Q3g97VMhLnd1d3fobKPWfqgzWD5yNq1MZFUnQJEnoi3fzdBifmi6Nr9nzggGkSF2MlUTpISQ4cSAHm2q3ihvWT3Xyz_t7wPi3vbp_APM8o/s1600/IMG_3006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8azRxZFm2nKAfiP4WPQZB3Ij0RZSGuvIc8Q3g97VMhLnd1d3fobKPWfqgzWD5yNq1MZFUnQJEnoi3fzdBifmi6Nr9nzggGkSF2MlUTpISQ4cSAHm2q3ihvWT3Xyz_t7wPi3vbp_APM8o/s1600/IMG_3006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8azRxZFm2nKAfiP4WPQZB3Ij0RZSGuvIc8Q3g97VMhLnd1d3fobKPWfqgzWD5yNq1MZFUnQJEnoi3fzdBifmi6Nr9nzggGkSF2MlUTpISQ4cSAHm2q3ihvWT3Xyz_t7wPi3vbp_APM8o/s320/IMG_3006.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAnE9_d42GTdt3aRj7ujoNAt8QA5Eg8bRL-fHAWkPxZcrf48SLJrfeIfm9OVnRqzTh5SMrHm2cFbIRn0ee1zjmlRFPC-JFZV7NjF1x6CIZOnfp3mQbI_IspYMEdp_cRDOD8cUufyMjKY/s1600/IMG_3002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAnE9_d42GTdt3aRj7ujoNAt8QA5Eg8bRL-fHAWkPxZcrf48SLJrfeIfm9OVnRqzTh5SMrHm2cFbIRn0ee1zjmlRFPC-JFZV7NjF1x6CIZOnfp3mQbI_IspYMEdp_cRDOD8cUufyMjKY/s320/IMG_3002.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="240" /></a>A streetside altar you would not find in Soho London!<br />
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........and coils of incense. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVrxIx4f2eZhh1aNJf-CFs5yIvWvjae8ThvBSQFfYYcQ9hVZpUeAQ7BF3Gfd6L6W3feTlA2WTRbRTJe0iSxZR10KRH6tZtr7ObX54GafZSxZatggILoguGlBDQO2KhdWtn88i0wzRG2o/s1600/IMG_3004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVrxIx4f2eZhh1aNJf-CFs5yIvWvjae8ThvBSQFfYYcQ9hVZpUeAQ7BF3Gfd6L6W3feTlA2WTRbRTJe0iSxZR10KRH6tZtr7ObX54GafZSxZatggILoguGlBDQO2KhdWtn88i0wzRG2o/s320/IMG_3004.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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....and worship of gold!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RkhPoguIyxcat1gvKTi4srzhHuGjeJgo66kisduXimW-lmhJthQpXMXc-D88KEdg_cU9_uUTzB3jWX_YhKBsrkO2kfWLt5tbZuSDawMpxEntqvRnSMzd90xAvOHvjo0El77xApaVXe0/s1600/IMG_3031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RkhPoguIyxcat1gvKTi4srzhHuGjeJgo66kisduXimW-lmhJthQpXMXc-D88KEdg_cU9_uUTzB3jWX_YhKBsrkO2kfWLt5tbZuSDawMpxEntqvRnSMzd90xAvOHvjo0El77xApaVXe0/s320/IMG_3031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My friend's son was getting married, and they had a traditional village banquet with 60 tables...yes Hong Kong is not just a big city, there is country side too.Traditional red everywhere.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KAq4o7IK8Nx640OkTfUC0wsF3fVCMkj0o-XXKQzF99pvSlQxP7RFYUUV7XwCzSi3PfYLK2SAuBzap3KYFJxMYlo_3VK2opTvAPnSPSgUzqOoo8K9S3AUcFtfizLk0HmxJMvoWxHDZHE/s1600/IMG_3010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KAq4o7IK8Nx640OkTfUC0wsF3fVCMkj0o-XXKQzF99pvSlQxP7RFYUUV7XwCzSi3PfYLK2SAuBzap3KYFJxMYlo_3VK2opTvAPnSPSgUzqOoo8K9S3AUcFtfizLk0HmxJMvoWxHDZHE/s320/IMG_3010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Traditional red cheongsam (qipao) worn by thebride, who did not have a traditional ethnic background.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuAY0i5gl65GsYd1VuRKZZyUzeT0Z_ItsYmukxc_TwTlwr2heuZv7DJhhqcQBvv6XRlkv11kseHg9VjTMTFUW7PF8wk93o-4WwBiJm3Mtlb1ynR4HKaogQE9-Pp9yhdYhc7IFoJW6TsE/s1600/IMG_3014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuAY0i5gl65GsYd1VuRKZZyUzeT0Z_ItsYmukxc_TwTlwr2heuZv7DJhhqcQBvv6XRlkv11kseHg9VjTMTFUW7PF8wk93o-4WwBiJm3Mtlb1ynR4HKaogQE9-Pp9yhdYhc7IFoJW6TsE/s320/IMG_3014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happiness....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifim3yVhsGzbJfkW0uv6NTQ4D_frXf8t08zo55UuZjpuPpVHC7C5cQ22OnvCgMrKo_RAs6HgYVPMOh0HwO1txmukZGYHCF2Tfv6S3nozPdZyuLYIJfYDasi_GGAsHAZdH36kYhW-Hy358/s1600/IMG_3016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifim3yVhsGzbJfkW0uv6NTQ4D_frXf8t08zo55UuZjpuPpVHC7C5cQ22OnvCgMrKo_RAs6HgYVPMOh0HwO1txmukZGYHCF2Tfv6S3nozPdZyuLYIJfYDasi_GGAsHAZdH36kYhW-Hy358/s320/IMG_3016.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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is good food for many Chinese...a hotpot of all kinds of meats and seafood, delicious!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBypgCsg38Nv6fzf_Awr0OISMW3_8yODmBXXEkphJC0uHf2s5PseYhBg_6kAqWJ6o_gX7BpcWY3FGSM4QUlpPmul5BxDv9hikJt62m7MJg8dEFO149IxLoFrJ0S5CRQnvdqXgaojOqSIY/s1600/IMG_3018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBypgCsg38Nv6fzf_Awr0OISMW3_8yODmBXXEkphJC0uHf2s5PseYhBg_6kAqWJ6o_gX7BpcWY3FGSM4QUlpPmul5BxDv9hikJt62m7MJg8dEFO149IxLoFrJ0S5CRQnvdqXgaojOqSIY/s320/IMG_3018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and more food.....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCq-R-NjA8vox-rjcdmkbtVb4lsvi9yDkdxjkvfUnD445NFFjpyqnR4FMtGBdtU5AlcYQmfhkcVvSckcbFoFUjdQBRL2yg_eXc4SDrcdsUFWahE7UeF7raUj1Es0m8btHPLMb1Wi9Pcpk/s1600/IMG_3023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCq-R-NjA8vox-rjcdmkbtVb4lsvi9yDkdxjkvfUnD445NFFjpyqnR4FMtGBdtU5AlcYQmfhkcVvSckcbFoFUjdQBRL2yg_eXc4SDrcdsUFWahE7UeF7raUj1Es0m8btHPLMb1Wi9Pcpk/s320/IMG_3023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Family toast...note the band in the background<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyE7JFn8BR0hbhC5wFxwNdF3aVyo70vaW_UihyFuZr2Lbd7BDUMbvq9n2XCQrPo-izWYRt7817czv_a-_oRDFCEK2otE8zpipDY1Ppng5U8HwTB3v3016LA5DtsvXi6F53O2erLHm-oQ/s1600/IMG_3027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyE7JFn8BR0hbhC5wFxwNdF3aVyo70vaW_UihyFuZr2Lbd7BDUMbvq9n2XCQrPo-izWYRt7817czv_a-_oRDFCEK2otE8zpipDY1Ppng5U8HwTB3v3016LA5DtsvXi6F53O2erLHm-oQ/s320/IMG_3027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally for our departure, the peace and quiet of Chep Lap Kok International airport, although it is one of the top ten busiest airports in the world. Same architect as for Beijing's Capital Airport. This is the downtown check-in which is so convenient.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mRYhsfdGf5W_ShmpApkCSS5Ns_nu-qHqG_FI00S8Rs6Bv6DfEMD8LCKN0ioCc36PIiwyVG61VNFKlbEg6-kC6bU5G8hp_fb-8Z_IExWvro4150ieCB6kbDeCKbzbEuAuf_gSzj8ZxrE/s1600/IMG_3033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mRYhsfdGf5W_ShmpApkCSS5Ns_nu-qHqG_FI00S8Rs6Bv6DfEMD8LCKN0ioCc36PIiwyVG61VNFKlbEg6-kC6bU5G8hp_fb-8Z_IExWvro4150ieCB6kbDeCKbzbEuAuf_gSzj8ZxrE/s320/IMG_3033.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-18744057454789227622012-10-10T09:54:00.001+08:002012-10-10T09:54:03.351+08:00I, Yi...a foreign traveller's tales "I like going to China. I like watching the constant chaos of Beijing, where affluent modernism and something akin to centuries-old village life are all jumbled up together; where impressively aggressive sidewalk salesmen insist that I <em>must</em> buy five designer knock-off wallets <em>right now</em>, steps away from Burberry and Versace and in sight of a big red banner that extols us all to “Respect Intellectual Property Rights; Be Law-abiding Vendors;” where there’s food everywhere, and most of it delicious. Where western consumer-capitalism, Mao’s little red book, and 5000 years of civilization are all stirred together into something that’s clearly…well, that’s clearly something happening, although it’s hard to tell what, exactly, it currently is or may turn out to be............"<br />
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This is the beginning of a blog written by a recent client who climbed the Wild Wall with me. I can recommend you look at the whole blog for the great pictures that he took on that trip:<br />
<a href="http://ebutterfieldphotography.wordpress.com/2012/10/08/i-yi/" target="_blank">http://ebutterfieldphotography.wordpress.com/2012/10/08/i-yi/</a><br />
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Hope you like the photo of me too!ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-19044224441503721972012-09-24T20:39:00.000+08:002012-09-24T20:39:12.420+08:00Views of Hong Kong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I visited Hong Kong in the summer and would like to share some photos with you. It is 15 years since the handover from the British back to the Chinese, and on the surface it has not changed much. The economy is still doing well, and more and more high rise buildings can be seen.</div>
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The traditional mixes with the modern, western lifestyle mixes with eastern lifestyle. Maybe there are less expats now and more mainland Chinese. Nevertheless, it is still a good place to relax after a long trip in mainland China, or to stopover first to have a taste of the Orient before you go on a long trip to the mainland.<br />
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This is a view of Hong Kong island, the main business district. You might be able to spot the I. M. Pei designed Bank of China building on the left background...look out for the triangles!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh2ovWTYOjd_IsIZTpY8IjUWijh23A3kn5ZIGdUbUsByhol8zabPN7f2KxEEnZ46UOQFe9XU1FyGRWtdfj1aMJTjlWInW4SHeCr2Lh_zblEwlOrcl6yKBbVgVmq1MSTWM3njUUgn6wXE/s1600/IMG_2995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh2ovWTYOjd_IsIZTpY8IjUWijh23A3kn5ZIGdUbUsByhol8zabPN7f2KxEEnZ46UOQFe9XU1FyGRWtdfj1aMJTjlWInW4SHeCr2Lh_zblEwlOrcl6yKBbVgVmq1MSTWM3njUUgn6wXE/s320/IMG_2995.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A bit further east is Wanchai, with the bird-like convention centre in the foreground left. You can still see traditional junks sailing through the harbour.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQqDedcTMkXsV6mhoppRa1txp0JvcJGukmm2AFP-uoyRTPivIgtFM_ld-E6DAwAqVP6T6zud_9iISVRPNOPUP53MzkNxNlp3XPmUY-m51mnAsXzgW75NSVo4xv76yaKq6YBd3Dn4gXxM/s1600/IMG_2996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQqDedcTMkXsV6mhoppRa1txp0JvcJGukmm2AFP-uoyRTPivIgtFM_ld-E6DAwAqVP6T6zud_9iISVRPNOPUP53MzkNxNlp3XPmUY-m51mnAsXzgW75NSVo4xv76yaKq6YBd3Dn4gXxM/s320/IMG_2996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is a child's impression of Hong Kong island looking down at it from the Peak. You can see the Bank of China building and the convention centre.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqX2kjNq4UKX6i_neNmt-cNPZnmZYPPF-APkS6xrkdovFvJCcq6l8Mt8FyEGnqqZHX-7t7pcpOOsv8So_rkZBVaVdq9-YL539gr_HE7kcxV_kdKPH__r_BNas5aNjnHjBOR0pVBziWosY/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqX2kjNq4UKX6i_neNmt-cNPZnmZYPPF-APkS6xrkdovFvJCcq6l8Mt8FyEGnqqZHX-7t7pcpOOsv8So_rkZBVaVdq9-YL539gr_HE7kcxV_kdKPH__r_BNas5aNjnHjBOR0pVBziWosY/s320/IMG_2986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is taken on the Star Ferry ride from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon peninsula - so many new high rise buildings.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_G0FfwFX2gS8Qz26Ed1zXHW00o2jHP47F6edPcvL4AbdxUPn2ovMjf7AVhiIBDUOKp3vvSHSE3oL6IReAJsWcSJu_KeoOAYumn8PvF1wTbpshkeSjU91c5nxnwICqXI0OPpYrTurco8/s1600/IMG_2991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_G0FfwFX2gS8Qz26Ed1zXHW00o2jHP47F6edPcvL4AbdxUPn2ovMjf7AVhiIBDUOKp3vvSHSE3oL6IReAJsWcSJu_KeoOAYumn8PvF1wTbpshkeSjU91c5nxnwICqXI0OPpYrTurco8/s320/IMG_2991.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can see the original clock tower at the pier. It belonged to the original Kowloon-Canton Railway Staion and was built in 1915. Behind it, you can see the pink coloured building which is the HKG Cultural Centre, where the very successful Annual Arts Festival is held in February.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LbJdQusbswJUBxNQoAsDBoHdlU59cnOj-3ESgYrS9TzpF2SGBNDkbn-ekX1BqOQ2zQtSIVOla110PXRe3_ONQAA6spkFrGLszk0PD7AjxeGDFh934pc2Netpj696nnlzZ8Ph0fmEODc/s1600/IMG_2999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LbJdQusbswJUBxNQoAsDBoHdlU59cnOj-3ESgYrS9TzpF2SGBNDkbn-ekX1BqOQ2zQtSIVOla110PXRe3_ONQAA6spkFrGLszk0PD7AjxeGDFh934pc2Netpj696nnlzZ8Ph0fmEODc/s320/IMG_2999.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hong Kong - Asia's World City<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mwD9wmPP7GvSJTXdy_ZI2f69Nzw9asVFZIXx4borW9GfCxLViJ_-qjTlPSvNW3-NtlTpT66F9jJz4SxTkdT6v5gDhTyzSvm9vfuszPSA7jU9dNsVcOETU_hxasq35q_btuSip9Wc0wA/s1600/IMG_2992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_mwD9wmPP7GvSJTXdy_ZI2f69Nzw9asVFZIXx4borW9GfCxLViJ_-qjTlPSvNW3-NtlTpT66F9jJz4SxTkdT6v5gDhTyzSvm9vfuszPSA7jU9dNsVcOETU_hxasq35q_btuSip9Wc0wA/s320/IMG_2992.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Back on the island side, there is the longest outdoor covered elevator in the world, (800m or 2600 ft), linking the business district Central to Mid-Levels, where house prices seem to increase steeply the higher you go! The elevator was opened in 1993.Yes, you're right it only goes in one direction, so of course downhill in the mornings and uphill after 10.30am<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd8fwSvwIxYNaLZiLn6cwz0XLwmQEKRdg-xa0xKn4I1a7ml-jlHnHm8-qwkBYqgaxByxFs6ItjZl3oukeg3bBmmXTYOCUqDsn5eZPYazaRRF0WHO4Vc0tlohyphenhyphenEmiK1yLNI3LF4Ix19TMY/s1600/IMG_3007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd8fwSvwIxYNaLZiLn6cwz0XLwmQEKRdg-xa0xKn4I1a7ml-jlHnHm8-qwkBYqgaxByxFs6ItjZl3oukeg3bBmmXTYOCUqDsn5eZPYazaRRF0WHO4Vc0tlohyphenhyphenEmiK1yLNI3LF4Ix19TMY/s320/IMG_3007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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All sorts of businesses can be seen along the route. Here along Hollywood Road, there are many antique shops.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYvNcONwWdehcjkzWduYkK7UUWwN01alGr3rw3DKtyOmsM4rfYUTCj955vTS8gC-Txl5v8sSF4aXK_vUPYEm-qoYWIU4QfdklGzpsRdejg2n2GY2MAllpgx6o4IRAdb_tps-wE-ueuwE/s1600/IMG_2926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYvNcONwWdehcjkzWduYkK7UUWwN01alGr3rw3DKtyOmsM4rfYUTCj955vTS8gC-Txl5v8sSF4aXK_vUPYEm-qoYWIU4QfdklGzpsRdejg2n2GY2MAllpgx6o4IRAdb_tps-wE-ueuwE/s320/IMG_2926.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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They may seem similar to what we can buy in Panjiayuan Dirt Market but the prices are much higher!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeHGBG_vIHhuL8dyEZgy2XwZMnYjy1zeyHoQZaR4wqrvCIKo-IjTePOFLiCwMegA9dVRatA6qJI93sf5611HRDhDhYobgGay0QPoPZmYtSQ5Jaq33tFAHBqQTbKu8j6fYpVN8jnAUub4/s1600/IMG_2927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeHGBG_vIHhuL8dyEZgy2XwZMnYjy1zeyHoQZaR4wqrvCIKo-IjTePOFLiCwMegA9dVRatA6qJI93sf5611HRDhDhYobgGay0QPoPZmYtSQ5Jaq33tFAHBqQTbKu8j6fYpVN8jnAUub4/s320/IMG_2927.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Squeezed in among the dense apartment blocks is Man Mo Temple, the oldest buddhist temple in Hong Kong (built in 1841). <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLgPljFpNBKqCkgMoaMiRQ_8kr9EMA7nt-c_0-WnCPG6v0kKJLfTLqgQB_9muh3XcoWcBusdMQf5sWJb_PvLrDaT2CGhu2EYt913bMJpmzpgaufqkfWjXNwzUpY41VYAiaj7OxsBN0Ew/s1600/IMG_2929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLgPljFpNBKqCkgMoaMiRQ_8kr9EMA7nt-c_0-WnCPG6v0kKJLfTLqgQB_9muh3XcoWcBusdMQf5sWJb_PvLrDaT2CGhu2EYt913bMJpmzpgaufqkfWjXNwzUpY41VYAiaj7OxsBN0Ew/s320/IMG_2929.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are small cafes selling cooling drinks for the summer, made from old Chinese recipes, and all good for you.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIb9n77qo82u-RXuEHu6dGkfituW21de-LjkAXpKgSKdNEZ2R_qB-t1sJs8MMP21TrlLLo7T9f60v2kYjlgyVVh5v-uN2YmQwbmu8dqeo19-Pm0FWHtV1d9Yo0lHWNJTiwinoim5AWVk/s1600/IMG_2932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIb9n77qo82u-RXuEHu6dGkfituW21de-LjkAXpKgSKdNEZ2R_qB-t1sJs8MMP21TrlLLo7T9f60v2kYjlgyVVh5v-uN2YmQwbmu8dqeo19-Pm0FWHtV1d9Yo0lHWNJTiwinoim5AWVk/s320/IMG_2932.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGCpgHMjSC_n-m8gFIYHpgR1sOB_RqqKHRIYfoNbRJs3jCdD13neakJht4Eim3NgNhIZUmvU6z5HafLkbCSitysA_xYMhrPHcIz1iq-y5DEoVo-gltVNn4TEnx2NGUI4RbpmjjvMtcWA/s1600/IMG_2933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGCpgHMjSC_n-m8gFIYHpgR1sOB_RqqKHRIYfoNbRJs3jCdD13neakJht4Eim3NgNhIZUmvU6z5HafLkbCSitysA_xYMhrPHcIz1iq-y5DEoVo-gltVNn4TEnx2NGUI4RbpmjjvMtcWA/s320/IMG_2933.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is a street full of Chinese medicine shops. How many of the herbs on sale can you recognise?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewXeD0Febe6FFLrzoo5rF-_YDNc4wZ8hO9qWyq3-KmDfiZUnUH88hxDqYU5AtoZwsvGJc4KNcpZgFPICeY4VvXsaGaTe6KbHBKNQ1frU5r3YDeJ8yc1oFjfHPq5ujbcsrGFH_3ZAo03s/s1600/IMG_2935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewXeD0Febe6FFLrzoo5rF-_YDNc4wZ8hO9qWyq3-KmDfiZUnUH88hxDqYU5AtoZwsvGJc4KNcpZgFPICeY4VvXsaGaTe6KbHBKNQ1frU5r3YDeJ8yc1oFjfHPq5ujbcsrGFH_3ZAo03s/s320/IMG_2935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have you heard of cordyceps...better known as caterpillar fungus.....animal or vegetable? In Chinese it's name can be translated as "winter insect - summer grass". It is very popular and very expensive, maybe because it is thought to be a very powerful medicine, as well as being an aphrodisiac! It is found in Tibet, and I remember buying some for my mother when I visited there in 2005. It has increased many times in price since then.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-w1x64JeUWnvxe9qVLi_CJGk2CE7UJxCL1Y1N4CwHlF3PVamvYgU00cKummGDe9GTyiEzkzkmASgBBwr7UU35ZZSvk8v3c04CZvTahT7XPHHnK99i9EVpQxDPVkTbcAq9iR_y6vE6DU/s1600/IMG_2939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-w1x64JeUWnvxe9qVLi_CJGk2CE7UJxCL1Y1N4CwHlF3PVamvYgU00cKummGDe9GTyiEzkzkmASgBBwr7UU35ZZSvk8v3c04CZvTahT7XPHHnK99i9EVpQxDPVkTbcAq9iR_y6vE6DU/s320/IMG_2939.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPR8bJYf7ZniXHe_clfHGbwzjaZZb61clWGHBhPjuD-BRTQ8UnMc1ExeUYyVAae_1M1nirse4ZR0BTs4QXuQOGbnyXFPQpQ6vbwgusnOsh-7Qrfssrs_rnqh3EfowaVg3JCXOWLZP7Lw/s1600/IMG_2940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPR8bJYf7ZniXHe_clfHGbwzjaZZb61clWGHBhPjuD-BRTQ8UnMc1ExeUYyVAae_1M1nirse4ZR0BTs4QXuQOGbnyXFPQpQ6vbwgusnOsh-7Qrfssrs_rnqh3EfowaVg3JCXOWLZP7Lw/s320/IMG_2940.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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These also look like insects but in fact it is American ginseng.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTMrCCHo-7ervNoG4PPbXX2TxRH19QA2jMqO5-JORGtsGqL-jdZ56zYs6RsVNmlapxqr8xY3xZkmUjzCkfhTzW8XjUUZKWrVx1ISnn03BJJRZYsOxfPIfVxrdLQ4zsY9CN2JFCJP01CQ/s1600/IMG_2941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTMrCCHo-7ervNoG4PPbXX2TxRH19QA2jMqO5-JORGtsGqL-jdZ56zYs6RsVNmlapxqr8xY3xZkmUjzCkfhTzW8XjUUZKWrVx1ISnn03BJJRZYsOxfPIfVxrdLQ4zsY9CN2JFCJP01CQ/s320/IMG_2941.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Birds nest on the top and a huge shark's fin below.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACq7wf03aZxRZXwnNlaOj_6zoRvWdJCE1WY_YJE5kfPz_n6hIXcj7cE5C087d3YspzC9OHblIjWlmmqD_1piAbRN_iFtT0zvdAEsKJaE_KRol-5OhQ4eF4K9SWyr0jBUbT-dSTjfjeIc/s1600/IMG_2946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACq7wf03aZxRZXwnNlaOj_6zoRvWdJCE1WY_YJE5kfPz_n6hIXcj7cE5C087d3YspzC9OHblIjWlmmqD_1piAbRN_iFtT0zvdAEsKJaE_KRol-5OhQ4eF4K9SWyr0jBUbT-dSTjfjeIc/s320/IMG_2946.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This shop was selling medicines made from dozens of different herbs which had been ground into powder. They could make up treatments for any aches and pains, sleeplessness, failing eyesight, prostrate problems, cancer, diabetes, baldness....you name it, they had a remedy for it, handed down over the generations.</div>
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I was more interested in the powders they combined for making facials.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKV3dxVWWM9kX_YCVSdMDA3O5HqFqdA3vzyQc2HXDzXG-dEwIHfySDgyHq2G_iNkj1UDblmsCihNwI5DXdjhJ2-8auyULABDU40BjtrhGryfCNirw5ECNlZWjfCRVNA802pEWhFH9r1o/s1600/IMG_2949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKV3dxVWWM9kX_YCVSdMDA3O5HqFqdA3vzyQc2HXDzXG-dEwIHfySDgyHq2G_iNkj1UDblmsCihNwI5DXdjhJ2-8auyULABDU40BjtrhGryfCNirw5ECNlZWjfCRVNA802pEWhFH9r1o/s320/IMG_2949.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglA1xsVpIN0INcIPFdQptAhzhjWoLsnjIBr8gU_61Bn2l0FpJIzpzT4g1klIi_MTAebRRPVDhMzqKWK2WmeMgImZ9xfTOL4OYX59P4zteJq__mY78WAmOMwDyxY1SrC5n-aLWMeHtvrr8/s1600/IMG_2951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglA1xsVpIN0INcIPFdQptAhzhjWoLsnjIBr8gU_61Bn2l0FpJIzpzT4g1klIi_MTAebRRPVDhMzqKWK2WmeMgImZ9xfTOL4OYX59P4zteJq__mY78WAmOMwDyxY1SrC5n-aLWMeHtvrr8/s320/IMG_2951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hong Kong is a place for making money, so no problem to change your dollars.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExWT4WBcHUIJ0A_Nftl7MI_AKTiBP87ZicZ3vewqV4bxFKnlAW20XCNLkpyyZdfu2udN2ZBhupfNP5hvgwJxCsWw5kkbfLdjvQUF-RM_ayu9VzlkXkSdROvicEm7oW2QyAN_6Ucy6H1E/s1600/IMG_2953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExWT4WBcHUIJ0A_Nftl7MI_AKTiBP87ZicZ3vewqV4bxFKnlAW20XCNLkpyyZdfu2udN2ZBhupfNP5hvgwJxCsWw5kkbfLdjvQUF-RM_ayu9VzlkXkSdROvicEm7oW2QyAN_6Ucy6H1E/s320/IMG_2953.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is also a more open region than the mainland, so there were all sorts of books about various political leaders that we wouldn't see in Beijing. Favourite topic at that time was of course Bo Xilai.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrh2srcRpBHyIpheCsnDmUBJbzbY5KhHaamVeDp9mEBclIpL6SpmIxE1razmgpoUzNsDP74eEvI5nsd-RYjpRBwoLKbAXMgtml0XwMyB3sRLY1ePGr-5_NvmXrH3QYSEeT2YeY5shSQSA/s1600/IMG_2967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrh2srcRpBHyIpheCsnDmUBJbzbY5KhHaamVeDp9mEBclIpL6SpmIxE1razmgpoUzNsDP74eEvI5nsd-RYjpRBwoLKbAXMgtml0XwMyB3sRLY1ePGr-5_NvmXrH3QYSEeT2YeY5shSQSA/s320/IMG_2967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And another sign of openness is girlie magazines openly on sale. We don't see much of these in Beijing, but we do get the real thing!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispr5ZuHim88icb3vPStY4Ux13_RkDV1Tu8Ci3fvyt2tGKm6tlUrfnJGDd12otaX9xdYD4Ed5FU62tDTt_PQLhuBja_ejUX-6NktB7G6JdWqYM9zVufiM-Oocz1eu6zhyphenhyphenhdPAa0WFL2Ds/s1600/IMG_2968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispr5ZuHim88icb3vPStY4Ux13_RkDV1Tu8Ci3fvyt2tGKm6tlUrfnJGDd12otaX9xdYD4Ed5FU62tDTt_PQLhuBja_ejUX-6NktB7G6JdWqYM9zVufiM-Oocz1eu6zhyphenhyphenhdPAa0WFL2Ds/s320/IMG_2968.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-42891809478193150742012-09-01T14:09:00.001+08:002012-09-01T14:09:36.226+08:00Holiday in USA (2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In my last blog I covered the first part of my trip from LA to Iron Mountain to New York City. Now we left the heat of NYC by coach to go to the heat of Washington DC, but with great blue skies. Here I am at the US Capitol building, just like the one in Havana...well almost.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYDblkzNpLcm-668QuqpuZ1ho3F689R9l8jUrQj2eYRlvWZ0Mb61G9d8Jh8H4Z2pLEwzCIoLl_gWPVfswW7B6xMYRmf-qt70QhZdJ-MAUxkPJl76MK_0KZNlyk7a3BxHfe3xx81GEqZ0/s1600/IMG_3475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYDblkzNpLcm-668QuqpuZ1ho3F689R9l8jUrQj2eYRlvWZ0Mb61G9d8Jh8H4Z2pLEwzCIoLl_gWPVfswW7B6xMYRmf-qt70QhZdJ-MAUxkPJl76MK_0KZNlyk7a3BxHfe3xx81GEqZ0/s320/IMG_3475.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHS4ID-HsQYBNZuJlKJgAW5DpbPmHEAWNr_VaUjUZnyRAVYHTv4lWgMuzMJD2Yp3K4naYUDinLYMvONYm_Y59LYbnLmAsZPzAGLNFk3uNIgzMC4GBA7BloRqBHRBevhxdYYKHE7sJPlxI/s1600/IMG_2003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHS4ID-HsQYBNZuJlKJgAW5DpbPmHEAWNr_VaUjUZnyRAVYHTv4lWgMuzMJD2Yp3K4naYUDinLYMvONYm_Y59LYbnLmAsZPzAGLNFk3uNIgzMC4GBA7BloRqBHRBevhxdYYKHE7sJPlxI/s320/IMG_2003.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Cuba's is smaller for sure! I was lucky to be there 6 years ago.<br />
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We met this funny guy ( I mean the one on the right) who wanted to join the other clowns in Congress!</div>
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We enjoyed a slow walk down the National Mall, which will look really good when the renovation works are finished. Of course we stopped off at some of the great Museums along the way.<br />
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The National Gallery of Art is in a beautiful building and the new wing by I. M. Pei was also wonderful to walk around in. He really likes triangles, doesn't he? He used them in Beijing (Xiangshan Hotel, Bank of China building) as well as in Paris.<br />
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I was so happy to see the 12 animal signs of the Chinese zodiac. Here I am beside my animal sign, the rat. That gives away my age now. </div>
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I got a great photo of the White House at dusk. I waved to President Obama but I didn't see him wave back. We left DC just in time before the thunderstorms which cut off electricity for several days. Just imagine what it was like with no air con! That never happened to us in Beijing so far, though we did have problems with flooding of the roads.<br />
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Our next stop was Miami, such a famous tourist resort but we came during the hot off-peak season. The Hispanic influence is very strong here, and we treated ourselves to a great Latino barbeque buffet.<br />
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At Miami Beach, there is a mixture of different beaches for different interests, (we even had a peek at the nude one but no photos sorry) and at South Beach, a large collection of art deco buildings. Some in this style remain in Shanghai but none in Beijing.</div>
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I guess it's a fun town when all the tourists are here, but quite expensive. Saw some party glasses.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3WRM2h4-mhFn_pIuBkl1_kHiYGCSBtA92DxKjmURTdtHJURxyjBlJZabcpmKSexwTFqkPWyim0BiL8eUfr0CZmrRtWYos31N_PN4pUaziY1C0c6d3IFuN23hvzm6tpqKgBVcSa_IUng/s1600/IMG_3545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3WRM2h4-mhFn_pIuBkl1_kHiYGCSBtA92DxKjmURTdtHJURxyjBlJZabcpmKSexwTFqkPWyim0BiL8eUfr0CZmrRtWYos31N_PN4pUaziY1C0c6d3IFuN23hvzm6tpqKgBVcSa_IUng/s320/IMG_3545.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
Do you think they suit me?<br />
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There were lots of seafood restaurants....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRfjZHm-mkvHHNsJ5FcXFuGQRfFBzkdIcjZVw7qygkcUBzzaT8r-2KtswseGXuMSp2QD-kTZS80Ix8fIcNvx9pt5oWc5FleDIjSc_Rc0Vcq6xzGTONyTe6QgO2ONQP_IHJLTxcMCS3_M/s1600/IMG_3547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRfjZHm-mkvHHNsJ5FcXFuGQRfFBzkdIcjZVw7qygkcUBzzaT8r-2KtswseGXuMSp2QD-kTZS80Ix8fIcNvx9pt5oWc5FleDIjSc_Rc0Vcq6xzGTONyTe6QgO2ONQP_IHJLTxcMCS3_M/s320/IMG_3547.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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cheap cocktails especially giant sized mojitas....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLYFEGD9jgTX8aPBtw55DdzSCyo_K56Sd2YB01rnCswZ178y5OQ0LJUtcLaBh2RD6V1LDa4-BqA7O8mXHoyaMzYFTuAdIphoLjFqyL3YOse1iZ7quQc9sQ34Xin0pcFm3ns52eFta2Y0/s1600/IMG_3548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLYFEGD9jgTX8aPBtw55DdzSCyo_K56Sd2YB01rnCswZ178y5OQ0LJUtcLaBh2RD6V1LDa4-BqA7O8mXHoyaMzYFTuAdIphoLjFqyL3YOse1iZ7quQc9sQ34Xin0pcFm3ns52eFta2Y0/s320/IMG_3548.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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and all kinds of bar entertainment, such as this drag show.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBzyzQ7KHnWOrUNW4Y2CqL0I24Tsx_0KT21OkYOQOChlkB5MbWISs3ZNhnmFXVHztQDYHlnvc7PV_ycXQ94Rxvn8w5p3sFpG6CRWiJmke7PFSXspjjTOWvxPnytLHT3TeoLj3TCNdN_M/s1600/IMG_3559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBzyzQ7KHnWOrUNW4Y2CqL0I24Tsx_0KT21OkYOQOChlkB5MbWISs3ZNhnmFXVHztQDYHlnvc7PV_ycXQ94Rxvn8w5p3sFpG6CRWiJmke7PFSXspjjTOWvxPnytLHT3TeoLj3TCNdN_M/s320/IMG_3559.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
We then went on to our last stop Fort Myers to see some old friends who had travelled with us a lot in China and now it was our turn to see how they lived. A big thanks to y'all who made our trip so enjoyable.<br />
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We got a very warm welcome, and saw that our friends lived as a very close family, just like in China. We tasted all sorts of yummy home cooked and southern restaurant food. It was also mango season there so we had lots of those.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMy_wCKXE6_lrasD9HpSiTswlfPxpug2wDyHY9v4gBg3rw5n-l7vC_u0CTanI3wkD2WcILN6z_73htrxsCrprnu3Yi3GCDOqViJcnz1tvueAAcmLds1-ylvtSw2FHn-dQozJFizoFK_rM/s1600/IMG_3564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMy_wCKXE6_lrasD9HpSiTswlfPxpug2wDyHY9v4gBg3rw5n-l7vC_u0CTanI3wkD2WcILN6z_73htrxsCrprnu3Yi3GCDOqViJcnz1tvueAAcmLds1-ylvtSw2FHn-dQozJFizoFK_rM/s320/IMG_3564.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here's a typical brunch.......<br />
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We went to see the historic centre of Fort Myers, which looked quite new and modern to us, but that's because anything over 100 years old is called historic there. We also went to an art collectors home......<br />
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and admired lots of "historic" goodies, including several Chinese pieces....</div>
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.....and a pair of Foo Dogs, which we call stone lions, just like outside any important person's home in China, including the emperor's (have you seen the ones at the Forbidden City or Summer Palace?). Mind you these were not carved out of marble or cast in bronze......but the male and female were in the correct place on either side of the main door.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAiTyn0UelDa_XiDTzcPhnKKhJGwUtxqTQvMWae3Bcl5apNZdokfztsH1DvlRNvDOFz_v-IiORS6N46h19UmKwTPjCwD3gZxKjvgApvEmVzgG9w4KWDtyBUDSObG4KGHglfIRwy7aC80/s1600/IMG_3583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAiTyn0UelDa_XiDTzcPhnKKhJGwUtxqTQvMWae3Bcl5apNZdokfztsH1DvlRNvDOFz_v-IiORS6N46h19UmKwTPjCwD3gZxKjvgApvEmVzgG9w4KWDtyBUDSObG4KGHglfIRwy7aC80/s320/IMG_3583.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysbNP6wqpOfktMg_biU0B1HR-GiKil1a6YO4COwTxaAL4npy4W8UaqFav0ZX0fdU4ZRSU5dfXmbyl4XCzFn5ZOD_6UgLn_YIE-sj3EQH0hg7acj3xD_zNVLvO2Y-DLriGdFkVDWbdV34/s1600/IMG_3582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysbNP6wqpOfktMg_biU0B1HR-GiKil1a6YO4COwTxaAL4npy4W8UaqFav0ZX0fdU4ZRSU5dfXmbyl4XCzFn5ZOD_6UgLn_YIE-sj3EQH0hg7acj3xD_zNVLvO2Y-DLriGdFkVDWbdV34/s320/IMG_3582.JPG" width="240" /></a>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-39681854082152655862012-08-12T17:41:00.000+08:002012-08-12T17:41:05.975+08:00Holiday in USAI went on a long trip for a few weeks round USA in June and had a great time visiting friends and relatives. Sometimes it was quite like being in China, other times quite different.<br />
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Our first stop was Monterey Park, Los Angeles, which is called "Little Taipei" and is one big Chinatown full of Chinese from not just Taiwan, but also Hong Kong and<br />
mainland China.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We attended a birthday celebration for some relatives, Chinese food of course, with traditional Chinese and Western features. Banquet food is much cheaper in USA, and we stuffed ourselves almost everyday in LA, and had more lobster in one week than in several years in Beijing! Over 45 people attended, so you can see what a big family it is, since there are even more than that not in the picture who are left behind in mainland China.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four generations under one roof and at one dinner!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional Western Cake, no room for candles, since two 80yr olds and one 90 yr old! Guess which is which!<br />
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Traditional Chinese longevity peaches, not as sweet as cake but healthier perhaps</td></tr>
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Newest family member Alex was a popular star, and he enjoys eating as much as we do.<br />
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Then we moved away from the big city to spend a few days in the country, a place called Iron Mountain....ever heard of it? People asked why were we going there, it is not on the usual tourist track, but we had good friends from Beijing who had been there 15 years. The air fare was surprisingly expensive since our destination was a small town, and you have to pay extra for meals and check in baggage. That's quite different to China!<br />
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Our friends had worked hard to realise their American dream by opening a Chinese restaurant, .....raise 2 kids, build their own house, own cars and even a boat, go fishing and golfing. If one buffet meals costs USD 7.95, you can imagine how meals they had to sell to have their present lifestyle. They took us out fishing, my first time, and I even caught some fish! The sky was so blue! I hope one day Beijing will be like that!<br />
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We had a delicious meal with steamed fish that night, Chinese style! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YRhcI2RXePDGFNhdlE_xfCzg8hbQbTl2YBflu3P1Y_2H0694Eqfe0zTevnsUaNKdBgA2KEFzR7X0_b7WE1OKZYMSFaIqhObNFlts30K1iOlv457CXYcRQ1G_iKO_RI4JEBUbP3dt0S4/s1600/IMG_3336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YRhcI2RXePDGFNhdlE_xfCzg8hbQbTl2YBflu3P1Y_2H0694Eqfe0zTevnsUaNKdBgA2KEFzR7X0_b7WE1OKZYMSFaIqhObNFlts30K1iOlv457CXYcRQ1G_iKO_RI4JEBUbP3dt0S4/s320/IMG_3336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had wanted to take our friends out, but there really were no restaurants doing good food in the whole town, just lots of fast food burgers and pizzas.</div>
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Next stop was New York, and it was either rainy or really hot there. </div>
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We visited the Twin Towers site and saw the new 1 WTC rising fast. The 104 storey skyscaper is already taller than the Empire State building and will be the tallest building in the West when completed next year. I am happy to say there will be a China Centre on floors 64-69. Also it is interesting that the building is octagonal in shape...it seems like Western architects also like the number 8 which is considered lucky in China.<br />
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We Chinese like to eat well, preferably 3 cooked meals a day (and not fast food!), so we take a big interest in the local markets. This one in NYC had a huge variety of fruit and vegetables, all in such good, almost perfect condition. I hope for that price they really taste a lot better than what I usually buy in my local market.</div>
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And cakes are something I cannot buy in my local market!<br />
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Times Square, and again I was happy to feel at home again when I saw the adverts and pictures coming from Xinhua, the official Chinese news agency.<br />
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Something I have not seen in China is the Gay Pride parade. It was really interesting to see so many people on 5th Avenue cheering the participants on their 3 hour parade. Even a state governor, police, international groups all showed support....I don't know how many years we have to wait for such a parade to happen in China.</div>
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The variety of dress and uniforms was amazing, almost as colourful as the Carnival in Rio.<br />
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The last stop was the Stonewall Inn where it all started in 1969. Wow, 43 years ago and the US has made much progress, but gay marriage or civil unions are still not recognised. I hope we don't have to wait so long in China!<br />
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<br /></div>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-20970106028924050522012-07-18T09:24:00.000+08:002012-07-18T09:24:29.061+08:00"Duck de Chine" or Beijing Duck?<br />
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No, it's not a spelling mistake, but the name of a top-level restaurant in Beijing serving Beijing duck but with innovative French cooking techniques, another kind of East-West fusion.<br />
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The front entrance has Chinese elements for sure...terracotta warriors, tiled roof, long life (bat) designs on the wall.<br />
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As soon as you go in, you feel the peaceful environment of a traditional courtyard.<br />
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<img closure_uid_d9kxmk="4013" height="150" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4QEDhR0pW_xSjOWz00ewgrLZp9w_N2Gv4nZuzveK9uTvCi5yerJJF-aUPpurJrGrwJ2WUq4WjCZ57NrDjyPp43HVhGGGXmnBvDI0q_GVa60C_Jz59uOvu25JBeye5EPHNa4GmGAB7AE/s200/IMG_3256.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 600px; left: 363px; top: 5px; width: 800px;" width="200" /><br />
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Everything is laid out ready for a refreshing cup of Chinese tea.<br />
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<img closure_uid_pnnm4n="91" height="600" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxampXo7KU__U_N_tBIDey9jmyhCAA_ZaK743XmEzS1pzloBjK_mreq70CxuiqM00zFBh3JJIxXixSe3SW1wTyQU7S6PGA4KzKfBR_T6vprzTQ9fJUX1Vd0qCQvQ4iJL8lYpimQ0eqSc/s800/IMG_3258.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 600px; left: 363px; top: 5px; width: 800px;" width="800" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUpsuNGHwSGyNF6gj1ni-zZpHXSQFbkm15XIwSS89HKLdWxFCuvBARjhgXhidKf5MyGbiZnC_elaZSrsN0N4GcEKpRMeDXfXfZDPRsbvYiFvlISRzNzS0tXC0V5S81lRfyLAa_OOOCLE/s1600/IMG_3261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUpsuNGHwSGyNF6gj1ni-zZpHXSQFbkm15XIwSS89HKLdWxFCuvBARjhgXhidKf5MyGbiZnC_elaZSrsN0N4GcEKpRMeDXfXfZDPRsbvYiFvlISRzNzS0tXC0V5S81lRfyLAa_OOOCLE/s640/IMG_3261.JPG" width="640" /></a>There are of course ducks all over the place...sitting in a row, head to head in the pattern of the floor tiles....</div>
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..as graceful mandarin ducks hanging on the wall.....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7zhu9Oz1GySH13UPMQjISe67GKVIHCZnVduYCL2-I5nwbwOx4XggtqyhbxmtMyiOgF2uhWb2Mxyzt9nCmdj4yOCJLR1WloNPS91iNKYRIko8uH0Xxkmq_veO0A75buN4TWRfWihcU5Q/s1600/IMG_3264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_n8sjl5="104" height="576" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7zhu9Oz1GySH13UPMQjISe67GKVIHCZnVduYCL2-I5nwbwOx4XggtqyhbxmtMyiOgF2uhWb2Mxyzt9nCmdj4yOCJLR1WloNPS91iNKYRIko8uH0Xxkmq_veO0A75buN4TWRfWihcU5Q/s576/IMG_3264.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 576px; left: 547px; top: 17px; width: 432px;" width="432" />.....</a></div>
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..or not looking so happy as they hang ready for roasting.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_fC21xqJI6KcQn90GEY0gTajKjVwL0-ZjT8hxN905Ob1RJHc61tfFUVqm5eCxguLk9HAiQ6sJx1BjFTrHNp_3JPAlZSN_z457gFruPjP9QxP5ag6atBPKdbtu6S6iVaWMG1gmkwlvoY/s1600/IMG_3263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_ii0u5h="104" height="576" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_fC21xqJI6KcQn90GEY0gTajKjVwL0-ZjT8hxN905Ob1RJHc61tfFUVqm5eCxguLk9HAiQ6sJx1BjFTrHNp_3JPAlZSN_z457gFruPjP9QxP5ag6atBPKdbtu6S6iVaWMG1gmkwlvoY/s576/IMG_3263.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 576px; left: 547px; top: 17px; width: 432px;" width="432" /></a></div>
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The restaurant chooses large meaty five pound ducks from near Beijing, and roasts a few hundred a day. With each duck costing USD 40, you can see there's quite a cashflow going through the place! The chef may look young but he's been at this job since he was 15 years old!<img closure_uid_oziytr="102" height="600" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaau3z6dGI0kFeqwyNgUVmekGCuTmtghTzI4kCh07krlByCJkHbDtLCWSK4SlIBAzJLU4Agu4FiBb6lcI44zBLbUG9CwQsx5J3zdqTtc5I5Hd5aQgVr8wh95lpyDxsRKWwS26-L8xl_Hc/s800/IMG_3265.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 600px; left: 363px; top: 5px; width: 800px;" width="800" /></div>
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Note the traditional oven using date wood logs for firewood. </div>
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Half way through, the duck has to be taken out and basted with special stock.<img closure_uid_1pkzlz="91" height="576" pageoffsetid="_off_0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgatt3Lt0E4W89Tr7osV0UtXx05L4mzWtYaU8JbCLscFe2ZCoSkU-xCZA3-dQA-a7cQMfNe16FwYwAV2Xx9xgSmb_uJ4fQTCVDVd-jsnqL3hgwbNLjJpUKj6HyqHVsxoJsvRsJI3wtxF5g/s576/IMG_3269.JPG" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; height: 576px; left: 547px; top: 17px; width: 432px;" width="432" /></div>
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While all this is going on in the kitchen, the condiments and mixture of three sauces have been laid on the table.</div>
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We start off with some other dishes...walnuts, lamb and Chinese broccoli....</div>
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and finally the chef proudly brings out the golden coloured duck and starts slicing it in the traditional way, separating the crispy skin from the tender meat.</div>
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The meal is complete with thin pancakes and sesame buns. Absolutely yummy!</div>
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Bon Appetit! </div>
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<br /></div>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-37978985384530538722012-06-30T23:33:00.000+08:002012-06-30T23:33:43.852+08:00A Busy Shopping Street full of History, Culture and Character<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Many people come to Beijing to shop for souvenirs. If you're looking for a quiet hutong with boutique shops to wander through, then see our blog of July 26, 2009. If you're looking for gleaming new shopping malls full of Western name brands, then they are everywhere, and great for cooling off or finding a clean toilet. If you like to bargain, then there are all sorts of markets, see blogs of 15 July 2009, Mar 2010, Nov 2010, Dec 2011......<a href="http://www.tour-beijing.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Its-east-entrance-to-Dashilan-Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tour-beijing.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Its-east-entrance-to-Dashilan-Street.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />However, if you want to see a bustling shopping street full of history, culture and character, then just head off a few steps from the renovated Qian Men Street. This street, almost 300 m long, has been here for 600 yrs, and lived off the wealthy royals and court people living in and around the nearby Forbidden City. It has been burnt down several times through fire and fighting but still remains a popular commercial area. Over 100,000 people pass through every day!</div>
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The best silks, shoes, hats, foodstuff can all be bought here. It was the original pedestrian street of Beijing, and full of old Chinese brands, many of which are sadly no longer famous. </div>
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Starting at the western end of the street you will soon pass by the first cinema in China, (1907) which was a tea house originally for watching Beijing Opera, and now</div>
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<img __loaded="true" __scrollbinded="true" firstheight="115px" firstrate="1" firstwidth="200px" height="184" middlex="664.5px" middley="334px" src="http://baike.steelhome.cn/uploads/201009/1285840406mmPXNMSC.jpg" srcheight="115" srcwidth="200" style="left: 664px; top: 334px;" width="320" zoomrate="1" /></div>
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Silk was invented in China so naturally there are several famous silk stores along this street. This display shows the basics of spinning, dyeing and weaving.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_bzroyeWZoxEzXFnhvQm-G7ZShfgg4jvzacCYs9YhE5FZFWyE21sKKgK37rZhVFs9CqyVNZlot5K2xEXziMpd6ShsuNbMa3kllKdE8kFK3CFKPvOok8MYVewRjnS4jEpTbplqvCJ9rA/s1600/IMG_3034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_bzroyeWZoxEzXFnhvQm-G7ZShfgg4jvzacCYs9YhE5FZFWyE21sKKgK37rZhVFs9CqyVNZlot5K2xEXziMpd6ShsuNbMa3kllKdE8kFK3CFKPvOok8MYVewRjnS4jEpTbplqvCJ9rA/s640/IMG_3034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This store proudly shows off the first Chinese flag of the People's Republic of China they made, which was used in Tiananmen Square during the Oct 1st independence day celebration in 1949.</div>
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The Rui Fu Xiang silk store is housed in a magnificent buidling with western columns and carved Chinese floral designs.</div>
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You are given a friendly greeting outside the Bu Ying Zhai shoe store which makes high quality handmade shoes of all designs traditional and modern.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK2nPi4Wxsv1kI8pzLdVT2P3Oy_MszjkS-Kz7L5s96n4IjPSLWmVd0NGt1ZH196X_7VuoZvmvxBCpqxojvdoxe-gktdFnpw7dhYVuacU3R5iljOVD_7Jz9wK-2TxhbxbnWBnFGFpg0QM/s1600/IMG_3040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK2nPi4Wxsv1kI8pzLdVT2P3Oy_MszjkS-Kz7L5s96n4IjPSLWmVd0NGt1ZH196X_7VuoZvmvxBCpqxojvdoxe-gktdFnpw7dhYVuacU3R5iljOVD_7Jz9wK-2TxhbxbnWBnFGFpg0QM/s1600/IMG_3040.JPG" /></a></div>
This silk store next door also has wonderful 19th century (Qing) wrought iron facade, a bit like the mansions in Penang (Apr 2012 blog), as well as stone carved walls..<br />
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One shop still famous after all these years is Liu Bi Ju, meaning Six Daily Necessities, referring to “firewood, rice, oil, salt, sauce and vinegar”. Based on that business, the shop is still famous for its wide variety of tasty pickles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxkRmPDrICM5jOM9OkEExwWLA5Rzl8_Z25URvacbGOdwO9A6XKwcb7W5xecjtICq55AVEO82M65_MmnMYpxGeEpOQk-92O8FwfiHnVWhqTpvB39HJbSUqjXhJ9BDNptCY8rfV8V_XgOc/s1600/IMG_3063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxkRmPDrICM5jOM9OkEExwWLA5Rzl8_Z25URvacbGOdwO9A6XKwcb7W5xecjtICq55AVEO82M65_MmnMYpxGeEpOQk-92O8FwfiHnVWhqTpvB39HJbSUqjXhJ9BDNptCY8rfV8V_XgOc/s640/IMG_3063.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Across the road is a newly developed are called Xian Yu Kou or Fresh Fish Mouth, where you can sample all sorts of local food from around China, including also a Taiwan Street behind. When we were there, there was a beautiful display of different lights showing various folk characters and gods.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpYK9sppyzAmiGNSK9uU80En3b5Kb4VnHEcgJkrzKdLNfWM1tzmxIx73rp4nJY-Ue4n7kyYGUQCfv2SyylCL4RUFpWajgAMaH4nPVQL3lmYjGssJ9yBivXDaX2QZtJYP-VhyPtDRVdLk/s1600/IMG_3043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpYK9sppyzAmiGNSK9uU80En3b5Kb4VnHEcgJkrzKdLNfWM1tzmxIx73rp4nJY-Ue4n7kyYGUQCfv2SyylCL4RUFpWajgAMaH4nPVQL3lmYjGssJ9yBivXDaX2QZtJYP-VhyPtDRVdLk/s1600/IMG_3043.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqcdiypVKH_C-LIsKglFHhtZKrk1_ZOjrCqf2e8khGXW5-J4dhg300-CCbXUZECEHsGW2Ewy7ueEsKEdsKejqCUUrtCqNY776Ask6bXpXKmRPBP8ngA3_vOKh_tDTcnBSQGg6keqUQYA/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqcdiypVKH_C-LIsKglFHhtZKrk1_ZOjrCqf2e8khGXW5-J4dhg300-CCbXUZECEHsGW2Ewy7ueEsKEdsKejqCUUrtCqNY776Ask6bXpXKmRPBP8ngA3_vOKh_tDTcnBSQGg6keqUQYA/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />Looks like the Monkey King?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kCPq_11SnhLhbEHKROcDv57VdoDxq-JIvlNRhAhNDDHhdFJLFVvsykCdywXcR0DDRpIbHy16JRE-TphL6ZqTqZlO4Z7AF2vCnHGX7yQ533JLs7RUUb04RvbVktHN-Xw1kdK9DP3BAeM/s1600/IMG_3045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kCPq_11SnhLhbEHKROcDv57VdoDxq-JIvlNRhAhNDDHhdFJLFVvsykCdywXcR0DDRpIbHy16JRE-TphL6ZqTqZlO4Z7AF2vCnHGX7yQ533JLs7RUUb04RvbVktHN-Xw1kdK9DP3BAeM/s1600/IMG_3045.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMYztzbpS704isWelY3rvVqx9BnvM1VyahQu9ffhyphenhyphenrtn94cjl85sZp5spzKD3kzNva1mV-k146titvJ18ziPsF2hA86VMgL9IzM-xIZ-OOXCeTCFnE8SuFtOmWhGisenLPVoELTdqHLQ/s1600/IMG_3046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMYztzbpS704isWelY3rvVqx9BnvM1VyahQu9ffhyphenhyphenrtn94cjl85sZp5spzKD3kzNva1mV-k146titvJ18ziPsF2hA86VMgL9IzM-xIZ-OOXCeTCFnE8SuFtOmWhGisenLPVoELTdqHLQ/s1600/IMG_3046.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />God of Longevity with his long life peaches<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9x2cz7ibenugl6T1RPl76-LKvXo9rk6U2EOPWQRe8N9coAe1xHOrVxgGyuNKzMNM-8Q2hHGmLKILD5RyZEisSuFBZcy2PMdqo9wluOv9A655087SO2oDAZc36gc-r37SgbELPvO6ogDU/s1600/IMG_3047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9x2cz7ibenugl6T1RPl76-LKvXo9rk6U2EOPWQRe8N9coAe1xHOrVxgGyuNKzMNM-8Q2hHGmLKILD5RyZEisSuFBZcy2PMdqo9wluOv9A655087SO2oDAZc36gc-r37SgbELPvO6ogDU/s1600/IMG_3047.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />And you may recognise this Westernized God....<br />
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<br />Many local snacks can be found, including these noodles being shaven in strips off a lump of dough, "dao xiao mian"<br />
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and the ever popular "jian bing", a kind of savoury pancake.</div>
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<br />Further on, you will see a local fruit and vegetable market....<br />
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<br />strawberries for USD2 per pound.<br />
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all kinds of dried fruits, such as we have seen in Xinjiang...<br />
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<br />different spices and herbs<br />
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<br />can you see what these are?<br />
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<br />more familiar vegetables<br />
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<br />So many different vegetables...it would take another morning to show you round a local market. If there are any foodies out there, I would love to take you round, buy some fresh ingredients you like and then come to my home to make dumplings...... ready when you are!<br />
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</div>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-35594497889511061802012-06-03T15:02:00.001+08:002012-06-03T15:02:50.788+08:00Dim Sum for a Lazy SundayA friend came to town recently and we decided to go for a dim sum brunch (called "yum cha" down south) nearby. You can see the flowers out near the MOMA building where I live. <br />
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We passed by this famous temple....do you know the name of it?<br />
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We were tempted by the fast food stall serving soybean milk and other breakfast goodies</div>
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Then we got to this popular restaurant open 24hrs a day. It looks traditional in design, but if you look carefully you can see it's just a facade......in China, never judge a book by its cover!</div>
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The food inside is genuine though. At 11.30am, it was already nearly full. <br />
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We ordered a variety of dim sum snacks. As you can see, they are generally snack sized portions which have been steamed in bamboo baskets, served with tea. They are just meant to "touch the heart" (which is what dim sum means in Cantonese pronunciation) and can be savoury as well as sweet.<br />
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You need a veggie dish or two to balance some of the more greasy dumplings and buns, and drink lots of tea for better digestion.<br />
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What happens if you have 3 or 5 people at your table?<br />
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By the time we finished, there were still people outside queuing up for a table. <br />
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At the Ditan (Temple of Earth) park next door, we bought tickets for a book fair.</div>
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It was a good excuse to have a walk after a heavy meal.<br />
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Note the Beijing Spirit, something that is being promoted very strongly in Beijing right now.ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-32195605359781613512012-05-17T10:35:00.000+08:002012-05-17T10:35:33.118+08:00Xinjiang Handicrafts Erdaoqiao Market<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am now back in Beijing, and have been busy showing friends and guests around. We get lots of visitors at this time of year since Beijing can be quite beautiful, with trees turning green, flowers adding colour and blue sunny skies. </div>
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Today, I want to share with you some photos from Urumqi, Xinjiang which I have visited several times over the past few years. Each time in Urumqi, I try to go to the main market, Erdaoqiao, to see what's new and interesting. There's so much to see there, I just give a few examples of the colour and variety.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXm0-pBeVpbN_RCgPMs7G0Jsq-wWH0iYNpuLwtb_1ZFmhIDfNd_UzfGYboITBCnZy1T5uNIicST0k2tJIuTBb-TcG9iDXDzYwJ5p_gPrft6qurousG-nf3hYfBPRyZVEneopHeWN7Z8g/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXm0-pBeVpbN_RCgPMs7G0Jsq-wWH0iYNpuLwtb_1ZFmhIDfNd_UzfGYboITBCnZy1T5uNIicST0k2tJIuTBb-TcG9iDXDzYwJ5p_gPrft6qurousG-nf3hYfBPRyZVEneopHeWN7Z8g/s320/IMG_2110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
All kinds of dried fruits are available from Central Asia and other parts of China.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthVfDyz-LCG1j6XPNwtfojm4EXIGmF-naT_ewrb9f9ZKfDGeMQpWSE1xh4j84-cvLPBD5n_ltsD0gYRg4dx0kfCLrUDaUTDV4O_Il3AvHLJW2PxhV7LnaTtk2HTGbvucSAdC9iBeUpBw/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthVfDyz-LCG1j6XPNwtfojm4EXIGmF-naT_ewrb9f9ZKfDGeMQpWSE1xh4j84-cvLPBD5n_ltsD0gYRg4dx0kfCLrUDaUTDV4O_Il3AvHLJW2PxhV7LnaTtk2HTGbvucSAdC9iBeUpBw/s320/IMG_2114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Do you know what the metal devices, in the front row, with orange and red parts are? If you read my previous Xinjiang blogs, you will know that they are for making pomegranate juice, but I'm sure they are strong enough to squeeze the juice out of most things. Watch your fingers!<br />
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Woollen carpets made from sheep grazing in the grasslands, they reminded me of my previous Oct 2010 blog on Nalati grasslands.</div>
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Uyghurs are the main minority people in Xinjiang, making up almost half the 22 million population there, and the men wear distinctive square hats. There are also Kazakhs and Kyrgyzs. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJQvmBK04oFbE0Q6e6zTWcDcxZrMEdODZ3tpYLN33F4Go55TSiuKtEetsX7TS0bAEfkMK1i15iooiwMPpu1aCQ71aWJJvMznPqvQikxmOphgmhV83AlGTvHMMqpfgY8WRss371T6mFd4/s1600/IMG_2117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJQvmBK04oFbE0Q6e6zTWcDcxZrMEdODZ3tpYLN33F4Go55TSiuKtEetsX7TS0bAEfkMK1i15iooiwMPpu1aCQ71aWJJvMznPqvQikxmOphgmhV83AlGTvHMMqpfgY8WRss371T6mFd4/s320/IMG_2117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWKJLS3gJDR-TdBzbcdIs-YdjTLdUkMkYxkP3dHHRFuRHpAcBt5CaQA0G0QJPZQ-JTHUrdpXpyJqvSEuC9NSxJVo0PA91ZlSmydtgj1fPfQgpNrcDBbf3sXej6jOtoUMnayByDYvBnEY/s1600/IMG_2118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWKJLS3gJDR-TdBzbcdIs-YdjTLdUkMkYxkP3dHHRFuRHpAcBt5CaQA0G0QJPZQ-JTHUrdpXpyJqvSEuC9NSxJVo0PA91ZlSmydtgj1fPfQgpNrcDBbf3sXej6jOtoUMnayByDYvBnEY/s320/IMG_2118.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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Yensigar knives are a popular souvenir item. They are named after a town near Kashgar which has been producing them for hundreds of years. They come in all shapes and sizes, and one stall may have over a hundred different types for sale.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsVSJIIETlm13kgn_lx1dd7J9w5_hTT2xLORPkLbkp72OtX8FGpvPoI0vvnij17iFrSffj06SLOJ0OzHYfKjQfjsEkBsBJ1xGQZNFDP0UVBHIXRE3GeoPZKP0CRvlEa45UDDEdCanRyY/s1600/IMG_2121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsVSJIIETlm13kgn_lx1dd7J9w5_hTT2xLORPkLbkp72OtX8FGpvPoI0vvnij17iFrSffj06SLOJ0OzHYfKjQfjsEkBsBJ1xGQZNFDP0UVBHIXRE3GeoPZKP0CRvlEa45UDDEdCanRyY/s320/IMG_2121.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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These strange objects hanging on display caught my eye. I'm not sure what they are, animal parts probably, and used for traditional medicine.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lhHMoGEPsxAdjXHbDfYUXx0HI3CMUmTFue5F-P4C5hW3Z5gDGy7m-mMBu6SgRoehpwzV0U-KtdQ8V-AZTyw6Gp6X0w2wsonEwNV86akfgk0840gqiBziBjx6j36vlXb5QVq_xPh-pvI/s1600/IMG_2123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lhHMoGEPsxAdjXHbDfYUXx0HI3CMUmTFue5F-P4C5hW3Z5gDGy7m-mMBu6SgRoehpwzV0U-KtdQ8V-AZTyw6Gp6X0w2wsonEwNV86akfgk0840gqiBziBjx6j36vlXb5QVq_xPh-pvI/s320/IMG_2123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Woollen tapestries are also popular and this one shows Afanti, a local folk hero who has lots of adventures.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrGMP9WsOTIIasVfno-hX5tLBoehjGy1sV5SCV9L_o-qzPAXROwGOJQVg36zv7zxyyCwCGUA2YTreArELE82z9gOLKuH0Xjbo_mboW63FQmgy8dgnRsd2MFXRFyasj-J9Huhk0VbDSLs4/s1600/IMG_2124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrGMP9WsOTIIasVfno-hX5tLBoehjGy1sV5SCV9L_o-qzPAXROwGOJQVg36zv7zxyyCwCGUA2YTreArELE82z9gOLKuH0Xjbo_mboW63FQmgy8dgnRsd2MFXRFyasj-J9Huhk0VbDSLs4/s320/IMG_2124.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYxGbN_sCrwEdMze4pb6FeacrkD8XbdzKcwtzxhinzY1syO2hOZ-q537ELesNibQffBKINVLX8CT8d89P8n6amFcfXti_wGYmTSx0asMS9RdGkU8mF_39DHCqyhWNlfsZHpEfsiRf3yE/s1600/IMG_2125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYxGbN_sCrwEdMze4pb6FeacrkD8XbdzKcwtzxhinzY1syO2hOZ-q537ELesNibQffBKINVLX8CT8d89P8n6amFcfXti_wGYmTSx0asMS9RdGkU8mF_39DHCqyhWNlfsZHpEfsiRf3yE/s320/IMG_2125.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Music plays a large part in people's lives. The instruments are an interesting mix from the West (Central Asia, Persia) and the East, and mainly stringed, wind and percussion.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenIPUr29XHv_A7ox_4BiBoV9c5CLoT-FKWD_KQjNuVx3BJXC_lnJ6c0IU6o9oES8U_CBk0VZyMBObRlN0Efz8ILpvaZam-EqzmxXUzqx0eZ7sWxKNNcFolZlCLtjfrfnC7_9NPA_gPkI/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenIPUr29XHv_A7ox_4BiBoV9c5CLoT-FKWD_KQjNuVx3BJXC_lnJ6c0IU6o9oES8U_CBk0VZyMBObRlN0Efz8ILpvaZam-EqzmxXUzqx0eZ7sWxKNNcFolZlCLtjfrfnC7_9NPA_gPkI/s320/IMG_2126.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvmtReKmJTQND24v0Sa79FXaYwDn97FqXpAl2eERV2UxmYJyB2aZ6NeTpXNQ30EHmzrMJFoiXyLiVzWsSwVqDr0x7I6svAs0xcdZSed5MLV47GxnHmxRLYEvLhbswAA71kqxcia6fsJ8/s1600/IMG_2127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvmtReKmJTQND24v0Sa79FXaYwDn97FqXpAl2eERV2UxmYJyB2aZ6NeTpXNQ30EHmzrMJFoiXyLiVzWsSwVqDr0x7I6svAs0xcdZSed5MLV47GxnHmxRLYEvLhbswAA71kqxcia6fsJ8/s320/IMG_2127.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
Local heroes are shown here, with the famous naan bread.<br />
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The market is always full of colour because of the variety of fabrics. Even a hat stall is so different.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdj6WqGUz2nzSzDFzFgXA7Wo8r0s-ei2NkzNDQnCDaDF-Qo2yYacPdPp0DzzuMCX6J_CqK7CWI2TUtdqzdjegK_5u7og1T-1u1wTj8efGVj2XvaEIo3az5PiyE-cNYwHBB1V1WKHsL6I/s1600/IMG_2134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdj6WqGUz2nzSzDFzFgXA7Wo8r0s-ei2NkzNDQnCDaDF-Qo2yYacPdPp0DzzuMCX6J_CqK7CWI2TUtdqzdjegK_5u7og1T-1u1wTj8efGVj2XvaEIo3az5PiyE-cNYwHBB1V1WKHsL6I/s320/IMG_2134.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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Of course I love to visit fabric markets. You can read about the one in Beijing in my March 2010 blog.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi58c_EJc9pYUj1Wr0OXfAZEidmc8kKHR3yJxuFc3JLQAjqiCYOe3Asbfpo1EJQMld5-bf7-Y1bEdbaQ7navGboiLQL73xa1F8XDkFZjAk0zccVFB9AMs_MA95a5cbIgxHldvcmtFgZHA/s1600/IMG_2135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi58c_EJc9pYUj1Wr0OXfAZEidmc8kKHR3yJxuFc3JLQAjqiCYOe3Asbfpo1EJQMld5-bf7-Y1bEdbaQ7navGboiLQL73xa1F8XDkFZjAk0zccVFB9AMs_MA95a5cbIgxHldvcmtFgZHA/s320/IMG_2135.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_5076832"></span><span id="goog_5076833">I hope to be able to take some of you around Xinjiang one day, remember September/October is the best time, so you should start planning now! </span>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-44532082322282081592012-04-25T22:48:00.000+08:002012-04-25T22:48:04.715+08:00Sri Lanka - Pearl of the Orient<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have finally got some photos of my trip to Sri Lanka ready to show you. Most people have only heard of Ceylon (the country's old name before 1972) tea, but actually there is a lot to see and do there. It is a small island off the southern tip of India, and so holds a strategic position on trade routes between Europe and Asia. It was on the old maritime Silk Road, and had Chinese connections as early as the 5th century AD. The famous Chinese explorer Zheng He (also a eunuch in the Ming dynasty) visited Sri Lanka 6 times in the 1400s, well before Columbus got near America. Then followed the Portuguese in 1505, then Dutch and British traders.</div>
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The population is around 20 million, the same as Beijing or Shanghai roughly. Although a small island, it has a bit of everything...historical buildings, tropical flora and fauna, mountains, beaches, nature reserves, precious stones and lots of friendly smiling faces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMZy4dSPfHzWhyphenhyphenzMngYcQTG4ApUtFcw9o3D03nmC2HRCKrJNKi70s1L9OP_BBv_0njlb9AocA042ogycLbSwx6N8WcJ_38Y1ROmFm0I9PdFDVnbGxSr_ATL2vA0Y4NbtQnR59Hey9HpY/s1600/IMG_2519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMZy4dSPfHzWhyphenhyphenzMngYcQTG4ApUtFcw9o3D03nmC2HRCKrJNKi70s1L9OP_BBv_0njlb9AocA042ogycLbSwx6N8WcJ_38Y1ROmFm0I9PdFDVnbGxSr_ATL2vA0Y4NbtQnR59Hey9HpY/s320/IMG_2519.JPG" width="320" /></a>Our first stop was at Anuradhapura, an old capital from 2500 years ago. Numerous stupas and religious buildings remain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwks0KDWDpr-ILbFDZSgz0C33O6wyP8syqwcvwz4fPNmOw3Rf-FIi5s1fXNkGGO7Q8pcGf_MN5YJUXoKc221oFldsvphJoT2uLUJfHH1KlayQ6W4CxFcx-IYUOqYUgAo4PC4Tgd1MNOc/s1600/IMG_2520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwks0KDWDpr-ILbFDZSgz0C33O6wyP8syqwcvwz4fPNmOw3Rf-FIi5s1fXNkGGO7Q8pcGf_MN5YJUXoKc221oFldsvphJoT2uLUJfHH1KlayQ6W4CxFcx-IYUOqYUgAo4PC4Tgd1MNOc/s320/IMG_2520.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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Our first hotel was beautiful both indoors and outdoors.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_rTBHAuNWoDmpgwz9s9qFQTiHdSfCmCnxhwTrgKoEDiLp63MHGfVPHJH1oFdrAMDUjn7L97gm2x2R81EqJqVT7kHQfoGJh0jcJLlGwa7ErJ8dYyHGbiafF6T_neQ8kH-oOImEMdkrAI/s1600/IMG_2527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_rTBHAuNWoDmpgwz9s9qFQTiHdSfCmCnxhwTrgKoEDiLp63MHGfVPHJH1oFdrAMDUjn7L97gm2x2R81EqJqVT7kHQfoGJh0jcJLlGwa7ErJ8dYyHGbiafF6T_neQ8kH-oOImEMdkrAI/s320/IMG_2527.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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We passed through several towns on the way to another World Heritage site, Sigiriya. Fortunately our minibus was more comfortable than this local taxi!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvcgz4NTSbw_qk1JQAF48SZPk7qn7GwXb2ww3HzsJwaZVnSxjECI8LnWpCGd0thYd3TgbMq4dd2GdTXFPgEF9v0G_iHffaKNc6EZ4VxmETcO27zR3JOtcEW4l4Fja-VUqN8iLLDivUS0/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvcgz4NTSbw_qk1JQAF48SZPk7qn7GwXb2ww3HzsJwaZVnSxjECI8LnWpCGd0thYd3TgbMq4dd2GdTXFPgEF9v0G_iHffaKNc6EZ4VxmETcO27zR3JOtcEW4l4Fja-VUqN8iLLDivUS0/s320/IMG_2535.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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As expected there is lots of fruit around........<br />
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including red coloured bananas, a first for me!<br />
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The local people are very friendly, perhaps because of their buddhist teachings.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOrUQeqHfGFx-x-1KcX1atmqf3Ao44ErSy5HJ3Sb49XX-TEwQS5Lhco8tikWopdSryRI6kzf2oiAkxnBg101GzYxsfrlIZlVApp2PiZTHyffqy0XJR7h_sug96OIyQlk-G4PtjfA2vx0/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOrUQeqHfGFx-x-1KcX1atmqf3Ao44ErSy5HJ3Sb49XX-TEwQS5Lhco8tikWopdSryRI6kzf2oiAkxnBg101GzYxsfrlIZlVApp2PiZTHyffqy0XJR7h_sug96OIyQlk-G4PtjfA2vx0/s320/IMG_2551.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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This town impressed me when I saw this sign.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnZNegGo0vlRX6ZjuMex3eI39C9uIhh2BSqGhHzXo3zFDCTr1z5s6gCmLCRXgh3BsPDsvePPkz0GdEivFOUyeA_6C1d1yYocNzKMwIYvgdPeQZ3lsvC67nRGy5CIr9o-xgqRP2nryyH4/s1600/IMG_2554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnZNegGo0vlRX6ZjuMex3eI39C9uIhh2BSqGhHzXo3zFDCTr1z5s6gCmLCRXgh3BsPDsvePPkz0GdEivFOUyeA_6C1d1yYocNzKMwIYvgdPeQZ3lsvC67nRGy5CIr9o-xgqRP2nryyH4/s320/IMG_2554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
However I realised there must be something wrong when I saw the bank building itself.<br />
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Sigiriya has a wonderful rock fortress built half way up this rock in the 4th century AD.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaXAqsSLO0eNgU98zpkade2_bACL2TdpaIzl64hSwcWWJmSo7wAkPOssEUWm4ptmqG0YSSPcLwaJybyy3adKz2qIKOWPNPwqgureIFwFYm9p-iHTIzuZvzuOFgN7gLZa-evxwqUYLa5s/s1600/IMG_2565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaXAqsSLO0eNgU98zpkade2_bACL2TdpaIzl64hSwcWWJmSo7wAkPOssEUWm4ptmqG0YSSPcLwaJybyy3adKz2qIKOWPNPwqgureIFwFYm9p-iHTIzuZvzuOFgN7gLZa-evxwqUYLa5s/s320/IMG_2565.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is famous for its wall frescoes.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGBZwQJ2UW3TYpQGi4BCPHBTG2Dg1WhzqQcMCz3QqhRBREDuBuR4LgqYUM4hqM_VbXOdZlGo6NPSinJVZ5-MFnY6G2eeOJimUByaSrhyDD35c3Ep0jLV-D6E-fBYY-1fWk_ZHGFIYZvc/s1600/IMG_2567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGBZwQJ2UW3TYpQGi4BCPHBTG2Dg1WhzqQcMCz3QqhRBREDuBuR4LgqYUM4hqM_VbXOdZlGo6NPSinJVZ5-MFnY6G2eeOJimUByaSrhyDD35c3Ep0jLV-D6E-fBYY-1fWk_ZHGFIYZvc/s320/IMG_2567.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got half way up, at the foot of the lions feet.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQp3vOLk-cHPalZ7CKcu-ekczPIrUzaZQUx2_fRg2uY7tLveUTdUC3g2tRfKnEJG3OneBH1Phd9p9fWUOjAs1G9TplyyG8fHzBtk65OV1jUAMAXt6tM3U5rvp24Qnzt-tJIIUqRBACpRg/s1600/IMG_2568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQp3vOLk-cHPalZ7CKcu-ekczPIrUzaZQUx2_fRg2uY7tLveUTdUC3g2tRfKnEJG3OneBH1Phd9p9fWUOjAs1G9TplyyG8fHzBtk65OV1jUAMAXt6tM3U5rvp24Qnzt-tJIIUqRBACpRg/s320/IMG_2568.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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As expected there were many buddhist temples to be seen in Sri Lanka,<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhQhARsHT2joIzEtgG0GOTU6dn5oI5sjeBKgi4aC2OpM9uWv6_e7lVK1oKod6VwoCmMoVUSwV_oRd2oI-uMzjdNLomkc8eQPs-oIZ4Ed6u439NBJ-ywkKOiO1uSm5SJnL_gBhiFgWbyk/s1600/IMG_2584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhQhARsHT2joIzEtgG0GOTU6dn5oI5sjeBKgi4aC2OpM9uWv6_e7lVK1oKod6VwoCmMoVUSwV_oRd2oI-uMzjdNLomkc8eQPs-oIZ4Ed6u439NBJ-ywkKOiO1uSm5SJnL_gBhiFgWbyk/s320/IMG_2584.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and lots of plants and flowers, and birds and animals.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr2PmfEWepWCEQdGFEw6DFW0EQ9ix4J097_fopVd71kY32BlHL7MZJTf0_Ti4TusHT8DRw4ieojqOqTtVI7hWZwx7HfTDmNkojLDYalx_Ab3GTmOpTkPdbKxJNDuvy1K5xvdxq2YWCd80/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr2PmfEWepWCEQdGFEw6DFW0EQ9ix4J097_fopVd71kY32BlHL7MZJTf0_Ti4TusHT8DRw4ieojqOqTtVI7hWZwx7HfTDmNkojLDYalx_Ab3GTmOpTkPdbKxJNDuvy1K5xvdxq2YWCd80/s320/IMG_2523.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LEMQZKftLhxVOftfFR-4DPHhTxkdRRz8vbmO7HCoOAA8g2kHPdk5oIk2NwSQAO-crSptcZB5ZUlgBm5F7EQcflfix7RjzlesZ_XiMFZfyQItnlNsLOxLWqwZ-bl03e0UYTzndbY-DP8/s1600/IMG_2571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LEMQZKftLhxVOftfFR-4DPHhTxkdRRz8vbmO7HCoOAA8g2kHPdk5oIk2NwSQAO-crSptcZB5ZUlgBm5F7EQcflfix7RjzlesZ_XiMFZfyQItnlNsLOxLWqwZ-bl03e0UYTzndbY-DP8/s320/IMG_2571.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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We visited the famous Tooth Relic Temple at Kandy. It is said there is only one other such relic to be found, that is in Beijing (Badachu, see my blog of Aug 2009).<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggDlZBKJmwBBipswi_qyqpDDjdi-NUrCbN_r2buftI1Cj5OZeMHW9yXDhTBR0PmvJKvX9xXS2tYgcMIZ6sUvTetWNHS7DJkxwPh1UkomFzZ3GzQfFIylRmCTm18SZDvg-wDHRSY6Flaw/s1600/IMG_2603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggDlZBKJmwBBipswi_qyqpDDjdi-NUrCbN_r2buftI1Cj5OZeMHW9yXDhTBR0PmvJKvX9xXS2tYgcMIZ6sUvTetWNHS7DJkxwPh1UkomFzZ3GzQfFIylRmCTm18SZDvg-wDHRSY6Flaw/s320/IMG_2603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The tooth relic (of the Buddha) is contained in this golden case.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRF3KrRNGHkxUJVqrcFlY8OxzbnUoFGbDtg809lAGfHFn7gAgqAbk5SBC0cXVejlxrjM7l0sQ2sIup5DuA-W6pF2vaf9iAIwnBmWKMdgFVjIWMejVkLYJTWwTbuZjj3X_OSD1z9XPHUs/s1600/IMG_2613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRF3KrRNGHkxUJVqrcFlY8OxzbnUoFGbDtg809lAGfHFn7gAgqAbk5SBC0cXVejlxrjM7l0sQ2sIup5DuA-W6pF2vaf9iAIwnBmWKMdgFVjIWMejVkLYJTWwTbuZjj3X_OSD1z9XPHUs/s320/IMG_2613.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvFLUM608sNhVjX0f4Ir-maiLNq2HMlba8fq0SxZ9pPw-D99hqQtpWtNUsTWyXvOryyN8Y8hGUsA6Y_6erPvlOm6vgtmdz8TPZ42ZXSX0J1JSwoTbBqyrFIXELbGF3casBnwE2R9Ox0Lk/s1600/IMG_2615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvFLUM608sNhVjX0f4Ir-maiLNq2HMlba8fq0SxZ9pPw-D99hqQtpWtNUsTWyXvOryyN8Y8hGUsA6Y_6erPvlOm6vgtmdz8TPZ42ZXSX0J1JSwoTbBqyrFIXELbGF3casBnwE2R9Ox0Lk/s320/IMG_2615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5_HGrzCB7QdkDNBYJG3G46Am__LeTzy2RcNK-Lhfo5HF_uh8fGTQCaob4qtc0kad5ZBJXKXJ6YuLkfW2H9Z2FrsqmVkpAGsg1l-g8XYAPvX9-xb0xmZZAxYRjrIuNeEn5D_ECcekGWk/s1600/IMG_2620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5_HGrzCB7QdkDNBYJG3G46Am__LeTzy2RcNK-Lhfo5HF_uh8fGTQCaob4qtc0kad5ZBJXKXJ6YuLkfW2H9Z2FrsqmVkpAGsg1l-g8XYAPvX9-xb0xmZZAxYRjrIuNeEn5D_ECcekGWk/s320/IMG_2620.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzX7J3QRujl0Vyt6MqUm77hVL8IOv3c41123iMDxPMYZSAfUztdHIEKvnd28kZJSJExr-DJLO-lB2UdDGG8JJpE1FOWjIJbSb-IireebT4-pz2mvnViA-PeOoKWw-YJejFA8D97R-q2k/s1600/IMG_2604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzX7J3QRujl0Vyt6MqUm77hVL8IOv3c41123iMDxPMYZSAfUztdHIEKvnd28kZJSJExr-DJLO-lB2UdDGG8JJpE1FOWjIJbSb-IireebT4-pz2mvnViA-PeOoKWw-YJejFA8D97R-q2k/s320/IMG_2604.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
The Sri Lankan elephant is an important sub-species of the Asian elephant, but is in danger of extinction, with less than 6000 remaining on the island, and mostly kept in the nature reserves. It has been an important part of Sri Lanka's history and culture for over 2000 years.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnzIKY9YDZ4LdLE5NOEPZ-DPQKBPO46HNHCMQ-dfcHHXCQem3yNrskUMyX-YYYvb-XGGxzA00zc7V9wYfwVgXPzwpxKV2wrCzmcVnRBZ_HSf1O1qerB9TIW-Z1dFZFzFn8GNTBMzUIxs/s1600/IMG_2625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnzIKY9YDZ4LdLE5NOEPZ-DPQKBPO46HNHCMQ-dfcHHXCQem3yNrskUMyX-YYYvb-XGGxzA00zc7V9wYfwVgXPzwpxKV2wrCzmcVnRBZ_HSf1O1qerB9TIW-Z1dFZFzFn8GNTBMzUIxs/s320/IMG_2625.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This half elephant-half man is Ganesh, a god from the Hindu religion.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5HJuxtORGx_VYM3hc0LnMRTcPlzHpjPfEM2yv0Sgb6zyzpwZXNz-g6cCRxVpFctihhhKYOOb7QrYve2kxPBjtO-7_j8-OjKAglIiqQWg3Llul0Dv9fjd_4dGUofhKJZm3tA_q4FkD8E/s1600/IMG_2626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5HJuxtORGx_VYM3hc0LnMRTcPlzHpjPfEM2yv0Sgb6zyzpwZXNz-g6cCRxVpFctihhhKYOOb7QrYve2kxPBjtO-7_j8-OjKAglIiqQWg3Llul0Dv9fjd_4dGUofhKJZm3tA_q4FkD8E/s320/IMG_2626.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TxiWBko9r3Vv8WyGCkBrHZomaIg5IgoSzyZFSR2R1HJpofutXI5M__MvmU6c1FEo8aWik9OvAVsIYyXDHOKfJ5k2QtOgj0V5AzZFEK49eXhbuxZ961x7rGrbbLJkTQiHhELK0H26CAc/s1600/IMG_2635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TxiWBko9r3Vv8WyGCkBrHZomaIg5IgoSzyZFSR2R1HJpofutXI5M__MvmU6c1FEo8aWik9OvAVsIYyXDHOKfJ5k2QtOgj0V5AzZFEK49eXhbuxZ961x7rGrbbLJkTQiHhELK0H26CAc/s320/IMG_2635.JPG" width="240" /></a>Hindu temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka's 2nd largest city.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5_r2sj9GqvXuTAxZvpPNHvMPzGODM5JPhVR4_8bv1Dd0x5-J1QZArZvKiDc7haap02x5zAtOqDvz0TssYKK1BVm9R5rhtUGSLJvowQL_h8GQqvviCQgSSwudUAkGJYQcvIW1HAL8eA0/s1600/IMG_2627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5_r2sj9GqvXuTAxZvpPNHvMPzGODM5JPhVR4_8bv1Dd0x5-J1QZArZvKiDc7haap02x5zAtOqDvz0TssYKK1BVm9R5rhtUGSLJvowQL_h8GQqvviCQgSSwudUAkGJYQcvIW1HAL8eA0/s320/IMG_2627.JPG" width="320" />.</a>Arts and crafts based on local hardwood</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhykDnCdVZhrXPmtq2D72k7UZJFf4WDCnx8uNBsICb1CTGnxMRcVD7trYm3_tzEUs1bOmtfE_cw4RZCx2eoWCwUENbBxZdBek3BSua2vGArOWhF3hu0bmnVR0rQc86YYzQVZSxiHdRZyhA/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhykDnCdVZhrXPmtq2D72k7UZJFf4WDCnx8uNBsICb1CTGnxMRcVD7trYm3_tzEUs1bOmtfE_cw4RZCx2eoWCwUENbBxZdBek3BSua2vGArOWhF3hu0bmnVR0rQc86YYzQVZSxiHdRZyhA/s320/IMG_2628.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxvxFOMoEgb9jz_o3tZRXmizjCMPYbWpvVChzXYwzgsFnA92wYsHRiM_Js9RR1dsBLs-Cfd-PVrPJemGPeh37YgfnnuxiS6K_iVB3awPOUM9j3JMn8kAOy_aBYTV8egSrBI5_e-pmvTw/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxvxFOMoEgb9jz_o3tZRXmizjCMPYbWpvVChzXYwzgsFnA92wYsHRiM_Js9RR1dsBLs-Cfd-PVrPJemGPeh37YgfnnuxiS6K_iVB3awPOUM9j3JMn8kAOy_aBYTV8egSrBI5_e-pmvTw/s320/IMG_2629.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Local batik based on local flora and fauna<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79iwLsOFYdNKTVWnRsPg9WH7ch7tQ_hD4X8hOmrbBOVFYfK-j1sRB4AtdAHXHA2EYl4ZaVHhi6zQdGV2TTYIyg8EMfsdLENDpUOUkrR13yCatI2ztyhloYdXEx0DBT_HeYy_4ca035EU/s1600/IMG_2630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79iwLsOFYdNKTVWnRsPg9WH7ch7tQ_hD4X8hOmrbBOVFYfK-j1sRB4AtdAHXHA2EYl4ZaVHhi6zQdGV2TTYIyg8EMfsdLENDpUOUkrR13yCatI2ztyhloYdXEx0DBT_HeYy_4ca035EU/s320/IMG_2630.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NgrfpIl8kta0sLRHZYfzzxLXfiZyrkt43jJUoVzxyfmW70ySct7owvYxSBIkoS23lzHLwg4T2xcbN8iVLPeMrsoNq-wLaHJoU8467TRoPsy5i7Gyl63NnLASHwWIXvvuHjyJPOMMmEM/s1600/IMG_2631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NgrfpIl8kta0sLRHZYfzzxLXfiZyrkt43jJUoVzxyfmW70ySct7owvYxSBIkoS23lzHLwg4T2xcbN8iVLPeMrsoNq-wLaHJoU8467TRoPsy5i7Gyl63NnLASHwWIXvvuHjyJPOMMmEM/s320/IMG_2631.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Kandy was the capital of an old kingdom for over 200 yrs starting in the late 16th century, and was then subsequently taken over by the British. Nowadays, it has been taken over by Western food.......KFC on the high street of course....<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGk4DwrMRDjdUd85IooUNid_RgQrPa5PcOz00MagJaABDRgZ2mxPDuIGiDNvsRkODQzYgt4cnjicUWYwFOB_5EUM6vwiGTYSOSAgYhIDcvnC3W1OIt1lb-cJyEBDdDo7av6JN-s4LQyQ/s1600/IMG_2640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGk4DwrMRDjdUd85IooUNid_RgQrPa5PcOz00MagJaABDRgZ2mxPDuIGiDNvsRkODQzYgt4cnjicUWYwFOB_5EUM6vwiGTYSOSAgYhIDcvnC3W1OIt1lb-cJyEBDdDo7av6JN-s4LQyQ/s320/IMG_2640.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrAN-C986P_yR7n7eOAhCvod9BzCfHn71zn4QXngGDDGh68nc34FiaGppmDhBsGYzsj_lKFSFI3Weo_0gtjce1ZXliRBNJW9pgLPuuK0BK-SePuIahHwMTe2LmyT51pUXQtq5O7-UMCA/s1600/IMG_2636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrAN-C986P_yR7n7eOAhCvod9BzCfHn71zn4QXngGDDGh68nc34FiaGppmDhBsGYzsj_lKFSFI3Weo_0gtjce1ZXliRBNJW9pgLPuuK0BK-SePuIahHwMTe2LmyT51pUXQtq5O7-UMCA/s320/IMG_2636.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBC_KEL6KCW4wexjnEZnciXVzJcOkcP0uV7uM3aFjFIrWNI-w-0Cbh8_11nkQ7rVFYhhMTqs7YcrFtitGJGtvuW2GxLxWeIb5bkHT8Ut7bvsv9WySAuvqtfNULoA8M6iH3PWtkc5UgZ-s/s1600/IMG_2671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBC_KEL6KCW4wexjnEZnciXVzJcOkcP0uV7uM3aFjFIrWNI-w-0Cbh8_11nkQ7rVFYhhMTqs7YcrFtitGJGtvuW2GxLxWeIb5bkHT8Ut7bvsv9WySAuvqtfNULoA8M6iH3PWtkc5UgZ-s/s320/IMG_2671.JPG" width="240" /></a>We also managed to go to Adam's Peak, so called because a rock formation at the top is said by the Christians and Muslims to be the footprint of Adam, made when he was expelled from the Garden of Eden. The Buddhists claim it is the left footprint of Buddha, and not to be outdone, the Hindus say it is that of Shiva!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAf__JWnUV8G1kK4-xcjxWd4nCRl_xwXvbxaT1pdm1wgA_Tvr5lmr0MI2thWrjBfxOZ-eciOjtifpUe0EX1_lOnhkDPAs0u5fEupZQnjS9DF3tAKcJ61MSDn11UQeRAKlCtDVoXb8Soy4/s1600/IMG_2655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAf__JWnUV8G1kK4-xcjxWd4nCRl_xwXvbxaT1pdm1wgA_Tvr5lmr0MI2thWrjBfxOZ-eciOjtifpUe0EX1_lOnhkDPAs0u5fEupZQnjS9DF3tAKcJ61MSDn11UQeRAKlCtDVoXb8Soy4/s320/IMG_2655.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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We got up at 1.30 am to climb the thousands of steps to the top with hundreds of others so as to see the sunrise at 5.30am<br />
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Coming down was much easier and not in the dark.<br />
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Signs of British colonialism at a roadstop at Ella.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlotlfArnkeuVYfnd5XOP9JlI2lJ3QYK9KixesGmNU2z_TQJUtmWjgSnUH5vJMRHR_ZYINQ1gOaLDEwBuuk-6W0UY4Dyb1WIV_K9055qRTJvOapF0oCj4WGlW00AnclIJAPE7PbT1Fwg/s1600/IMG_2682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlotlfArnkeuVYfnd5XOP9JlI2lJ3QYK9KixesGmNU2z_TQJUtmWjgSnUH5vJMRHR_ZYINQ1gOaLDEwBuuk-6W0UY4Dyb1WIV_K9055qRTJvOapF0oCj4WGlW00AnclIJAPE7PbT1Fwg/s320/IMG_2682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tea plantations at Nurawa-Eliya<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KzgMrN1L1uXF5XXd8WBqNQYBRpY3vqYHq879qJL0SMonNXfsZuMCr5g_9th4eHtYCVgUfnRx3zq08ob-B8ju6EX_NiGSpKJX4bFM_gNuujtL_BFYSRh1B6W54HohCs3ZlebKXVuTuQ4/s1600/IMG_2683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KzgMrN1L1uXF5XXd8WBqNQYBRpY3vqYHq879qJL0SMonNXfsZuMCr5g_9th4eHtYCVgUfnRx3zq08ob-B8ju6EX_NiGSpKJX4bFM_gNuujtL_BFYSRh1B6W54HohCs3ZlebKXVuTuQ4/s320/IMG_2683.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlnnGwVLB9WZG1leejnkVtkJN7rFNJ-HK1e2j5dsYgv8O0ymvCkCcv79a1_hFlBTCRVrhknDNHrgNRb4BbJzPgeCFBI3aiKnrwrHUnrf5NllXQGayv_L3wR0EYAIqZXjNoEAmSudZpPk/s1600/IMG_2717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlnnGwVLB9WZG1leejnkVtkJN7rFNJ-HK1e2j5dsYgv8O0ymvCkCcv79a1_hFlBTCRVrhknDNHrgNRb4BbJzPgeCFBI3aiKnrwrHUnrf5NllXQGayv_L3wR0EYAIqZXjNoEAmSudZpPk/s320/IMG_2717.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
Some of the tea ends up in souvenir shops, this one in the capital Colombo, in different blends from weak to strong to suit all tastes. It was certainly a very refreshing drink with milk added, but I think I still prefer Chinese tea!<br />
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One of many beautiful, uncrowded and uncommericalised beaches to be found all over the island. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fddrWK2_3Cz5Q-HOWgQdgQa8nVrgzt8VTX1z0QMloSnySFjFFmx7UgqciMcgEJMPPeTpOMqCVIetlNiLhW68jNFoqXUyiaZU21hSVF4aIwXj5FpXzWe_HDl_c5GEyVO_ODTl_epYbw4/s1600/IMG_2694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fddrWK2_3Cz5Q-HOWgQdgQa8nVrgzt8VTX1z0QMloSnySFjFFmx7UgqciMcgEJMPPeTpOMqCVIetlNiLhW68jNFoqXUyiaZU21hSVF4aIwXj5FpXzWe_HDl_c5GEyVO_ODTl_epYbw4/s320/IMG_2694.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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It was strange seeing all these men sitting on poles, until we saw they were fishing. What a peaceful life!<br />
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<span id="goog_1470176731"></span><span id="goog_1470176732"></span>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3623089371934680299.post-302403702948266372012-04-03T21:09:00.000+08:002012-04-03T21:09:13.155+08:00Penang..... Malaysia with Chinese and Indian characteristics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's public holiday time for Tomb Sweeping Festival (Qing Ming). You can see from the Apr 5th 2010 blog what local people do in the parks at this time. I decided to stay in and avoid the crowds. I have tidied up my Malaysia and Sri Lanka photos, and post some here for you.</div>
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Penang is about a 5 hr drive from KL, and is the most populated state of Malaysia. Penang Island has over 700,000 inhabitants, almost a half Chinese and 10% Indian.</div>
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I went there with a local friend recently, and he showed us round this highly developed and thriving tourist city. Yet it still retains it's colonial charm which enabled it to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfM0ET6lXO4IEOqTo-yG-IlIBGQ-uHZr8R2mSYaZJdExxbLAHuY154VV0UaNFc2jt4bqQWOVxepyklsMg0YWbk6NG7cLYOAIsBCkcae5LCjNYwu4j9ia_j-z8PHrlx0sy5Q6yLA0HEYsk/s1600/IMG_2805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfM0ET6lXO4IEOqTo-yG-IlIBGQ-uHZr8R2mSYaZJdExxbLAHuY154VV0UaNFc2jt4bqQWOVxepyklsMg0YWbk6NG7cLYOAIsBCkcae5LCjNYwu4j9ia_j-z8PHrlx0sy5Q6yLA0HEYsk/s320/IMG_2805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The old town Georgetown is being bought up by savvy investors and renovated into boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkKl8JJbLq7Ux58SQ88ZL5Jjm8Sy58g2jsAAVwTsB_PZUQyHK8jWMt9pbCJu2eapj238uq4vhgHzvPL4fGOIOr2OlqQRwDASQrPaAyjbOGQd1dAmh_w5asRlPvxfttz8UYFRK5k27JhA/s1600/IMG_2748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkKl8JJbLq7Ux58SQ88ZL5Jjm8Sy58g2jsAAVwTsB_PZUQyHK8jWMt9pbCJu2eapj238uq4vhgHzvPL4fGOIOr2OlqQRwDASQrPaAyjbOGQd1dAmh_w5asRlPvxfttz8UYFRK5k27JhA/s320/IMG_2748.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This colonial building from British imperial days is now a hotel. The British were here since the 1780s in one way or another, with independence granted in 1957.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tAPgcIcXCu2cbJ7ycdMpGZVAm7n14B5FjZaknHRhJmEuCEapm0kEfvF2et0-OUHfsGpKpbh4e4sDJuzIX6ENMVn9gc4GJwatpHGJL4HUhpVkhXpo56UQibcS_OvmrZ5OsdtOLWtUz2Q/s1600/IMG_2750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tAPgcIcXCu2cbJ7ycdMpGZVAm7n14B5FjZaknHRhJmEuCEapm0kEfvF2et0-OUHfsGpKpbh4e4sDJuzIX6ENMVn9gc4GJwatpHGJL4HUhpVkhXpo56UQibcS_OvmrZ5OsdtOLWtUz2Q/s320/IMG_2750.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The obvious Chinese influence is not surprising since trade between Penang and China had already started in Admiral Zheng He's time in the 15th century.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnEUs91KhEpLqh_PnwL-B5seYqjcqNh6z_YOG_-5PP6lSDPcdcm2jueCZH2gAgOMZDqIk5rXKwOmt7vGrOnp6j-1CqkWoh7Ow4VOgXiyXceejqA0RMSSLoG_RUlkx21JekMoWlloaG0w/s1600/IMG_2804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnEUs91KhEpLqh_PnwL-B5seYqjcqNh6z_YOG_-5PP6lSDPcdcm2jueCZH2gAgOMZDqIk5rXKwOmt7vGrOnp6j-1CqkWoh7Ow4VOgXiyXceejqA0RMSSLoG_RUlkx21JekMoWlloaG0w/s320/IMG_2804.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The British profited from their rule but also some Chinese immigrants were very successful too. This 'blue house' was built by such a person, Cheung Fatt Tze, who arrived penniless from Guangzhou in 1856 at the age of 16. He was called " One of China's last Mandarins and 1st Capitalist". The mansion contains gothic louvred windows, Chinese porcelain, Stoke-on-Trent (UK) floor tiles, Scottish cast iron and Art Nouveau stained glass. Again quite different from the grand family mansions in Pingyao, China.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9x147dQw8qMcJbIVtOMbI7shK8bLNxsGU3mwPnm63mZUXExe4jlGnaASBQnmR_4ChLtfe5RxmRM5a-6YTNVEFLJIR29dMLoIxToOhPsRZFgAPcE0CrqokDnVM1R3w0wFxm986IFn1se4/s1600/IMG_2756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9x147dQw8qMcJbIVtOMbI7shK8bLNxsGU3mwPnm63mZUXExe4jlGnaASBQnmR_4ChLtfe5RxmRM5a-6YTNVEFLJIR29dMLoIxToOhPsRZFgAPcE0CrqokDnVM1R3w0wFxm986IFn1se4/s320/IMG_2756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLB62CZR4-PmTfy8-Xe7_oe1woa9FVWn5Y56R597zASAUTILd3OKn6trG9YfFGHD2BgZpMCfypTynb0bAy9QOpVRNKKKEs4EbrKs9zLAR40YdQ7SQhEF8Q5tbY9KkRwMOOS6Z5wQKC0Xk/s1600/IMG_2767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLB62CZR4-PmTfy8-Xe7_oe1woa9FVWn5Y56R597zASAUTILd3OKn6trG9YfFGHD2BgZpMCfypTynb0bAy9QOpVRNKKKEs4EbrKs9zLAR40YdQ7SQhEF8Q5tbY9KkRwMOOS6Z5wQKC0Xk/s320/IMG_2767.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />Whilst his great entrepreneurial skills did not last many generations, his name survives under the Changyu label, one of the first grape wines to be made in China.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMC-mpFux3G8vWgPnhR0K2rJpJyMoVjL0pdcRGZQAb6Cavbvso2omXVuojiMrDlHVyp103gJxZ0MaaelXe8kQF9i_4O8I7Aibuec478TqZz5lB3MHB-HXN0Xvskdrqlm8EaNOWcdpWEk/s1600/IMG_2759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMC-mpFux3G8vWgPnhR0K2rJpJyMoVjL0pdcRGZQAb6Cavbvso2omXVuojiMrDlHVyp103gJxZ0MaaelXe8kQF9i_4O8I7Aibuec478TqZz5lB3MHB-HXN0Xvskdrqlm8EaNOWcdpWEk/s320/IMG_2759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlX2Ri857ZLG9UZtFLTl6W9e3I_UTPOyQicknT6n4MHBsJLVFU1Ksg8fqiZS8UmiCFrCZAJaQD7PIIpY69kw0cHkNVLGNLIysWVXhvr1QNbwe6KbbiSQutnUaFkhmOspPJNfkeZScYzo/s1600/IMG_2790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlX2Ri857ZLG9UZtFLTl6W9e3I_UTPOyQicknT6n4MHBsJLVFU1Ksg8fqiZS8UmiCFrCZAJaQD7PIIpY69kw0cHkNVLGNLIysWVXhvr1QNbwe6KbbiSQutnUaFkhmOspPJNfkeZScYzo/s1600/IMG_2790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlX2Ri857ZLG9UZtFLTl6W9e3I_UTPOyQicknT6n4MHBsJLVFU1Ksg8fqiZS8UmiCFrCZAJaQD7PIIpY69kw0cHkNVLGNLIysWVXhvr1QNbwe6KbbiSQutnUaFkhmOspPJNfkeZScYzo/s320/IMG_2790.JPG" width="320" /></a>The locals Malays are Muslims, but the Chinese also built their own temples, which are quite different from the ones we have in Beijing - much more colourful and more elaborate decorations on the walls and roof.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpesc3R4Gl4yk8S9U2vrtG1bOGsi2t1TaraEwjd6MoVVdWCwgTX8mayw2yDopIoSw2CEPjZC6U_MMIYnCxFich-462WlHsBFkSzOCe64Ksi6eqoFZygt4NVMz7VCuT4OR83Hr4_jTwHx0/s1600/IMG_2792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpesc3R4Gl4yk8S9U2vrtG1bOGsi2t1TaraEwjd6MoVVdWCwgTX8mayw2yDopIoSw2CEPjZC6U_MMIYnCxFich-462WlHsBFkSzOCe64Ksi6eqoFZygt4NVMz7VCuT4OR83Hr4_jTwHx0/s320/IMG_2792.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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You can see how multi-cultural Penang is just from the road signs and shop signs. How many languages can you see in this sign?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_U7lAT3ymICMJ9qrVq2wZbGM-9xTxo0cW_8u3BYX39oaZdym6DrHUG-O8fj_jrEEN4x9TvF7z7tkuPMccU5rgtpg1dIn6nH1Q8V2yCvAtGJjLpEC5UowUfviz9XTpo9UNHdEpM2GEDU/s1600/IMG_2808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_U7lAT3ymICMJ9qrVq2wZbGM-9xTxo0cW_8u3BYX39oaZdym6DrHUG-O8fj_jrEEN4x9TvF7z7tkuPMccU5rgtpg1dIn6nH1Q8V2yCvAtGJjLpEC5UowUfviz9XTpo9UNHdEpM2GEDU/s320/IMG_2808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You might think you were in India in this part of town.........<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qbJthC6FpYGrdfUl7eLra5tGbHacchNPOlrvSKGhpevQshfPII2idne1wNM4bb5j4dWsZn5qSY7rc6kl5oYc_0TmuBXNOYfMELUenNKdWjTP3T4ritXtKXnw9iF1X6A7PO9b5Xjs-lI/s1600/IMG_2798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qbJthC6FpYGrdfUl7eLra5tGbHacchNPOlrvSKGhpevQshfPII2idne1wNM4bb5j4dWsZn5qSY7rc6kl5oYc_0TmuBXNOYfMELUenNKdWjTP3T4ritXtKXnw9iF1X6A7PO9b5Xjs-lI/s320/IMG_2798.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHF1Z_5gYpCjDSHORDED9T7rP0nXMZcrlDOtOo1uaPcPDZaYZrHZISTWn_RBa1EUGyT576u494Fve-8Wb-E5mftcHbrUpl_MkTXOHki1s1vT9bLuXODSuWkRRFM7zCfJqlx4K9rVHmuco/s1600/IMG_2799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHF1Z_5gYpCjDSHORDED9T7rP0nXMZcrlDOtOo1uaPcPDZaYZrHZISTWn_RBa1EUGyT576u494Fve-8Wb-E5mftcHbrUpl_MkTXOHki1s1vT9bLuXODSuWkRRFM7zCfJqlx4K9rVHmuco/s320/IMG_2799.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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........hence the name!</div>
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The weather is very hot all year round so it's always time for a drink...this one made from freshly squeezed cane sugar.</div>
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We came across another great courtyard house built by a rich Baba more than a century ago. It is one of the most beautiful Chinese mansions I have ever seen! The family must have been very rich!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzohh5zotiPd7eZDYEb9U-3d07VKaThJLMbS85X4i-U_F3n7LZzte_mcUbBXJyhtabh-0JVwPh-f9QJqDe-RpUjPvv_dvbioRztLV_Igoz25cwWSStR_itjHwtUDMBErbiUobgwuUFYuM/s1600/IMG_2848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzohh5zotiPd7eZDYEb9U-3d07VKaThJLMbS85X4i-U_F3n7LZzte_mcUbBXJyhtabh-0JVwPh-f9QJqDe-RpUjPvv_dvbioRztLV_Igoz25cwWSStR_itjHwtUDMBErbiUobgwuUFYuM/s320/IMG_2848.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOehq0OeLsrYbLHW_siTk80MNwiATBMpr71aqiwC6QVXQrN9Kpob-HJG92wrlpSGVpfTQ7xj1aaSNPzZAsEtAY7vor8gm7Y5ZLxQPDtcPbzQriiydXZ6UN3ypbKblPTWGYlJV-_gXoDic/s1600/IMG_2814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOehq0OeLsrYbLHW_siTk80MNwiATBMpr71aqiwC6QVXQrN9Kpob-HJG92wrlpSGVpfTQ7xj1aaSNPzZAsEtAY7vor8gm7Y5ZLxQPDtcPbzQriiydXZ6UN3ypbKblPTWGYlJV-_gXoDic/s320/IMG_2814.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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They also liked some Western things, such as the Scottish ironworks, long European style teak dining table and the stained glass windows, quite a novelty at that time.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZCe4ESb8XVJCHwcLtTI0U7TCdoEw9cu7ekevOEKqXTaUsH-e92ZDavDNlA29HbtHcmwXWwhRZGtJKsfAzZfRsfON0PypDq5hgLdsenKM_kRyDcBHAZvbMvuUbOdhLr35OwgyO5wejzw/s1600/IMG_2819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZCe4ESb8XVJCHwcLtTI0U7TCdoEw9cu7ekevOEKqXTaUsH-e92ZDavDNlA29HbtHcmwXWwhRZGtJKsfAzZfRsfON0PypDq5hgLdsenKM_kRyDcBHAZvbMvuUbOdhLr35OwgyO5wejzw/s320/IMG_2819.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A kind of East-West fusion, quite different from those I've seen in churches in Europe!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-5eH7bTwsmM-Jy1gx3TqRSYKSdFtG3EO-iPBEAHhl_FOnclbkZwFsq9x2PaspvTwSNPlA_3tQKBClFuFBMic_NDs9KUT57hvkdqjctrlfHqm1MQ-4oBA3epDjQX5rUueTwTR_o5JlK4/s1600/IMG_2823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-5eH7bTwsmM-Jy1gx3TqRSYKSdFtG3EO-iPBEAHhl_FOnclbkZwFsq9x2PaspvTwSNPlA_3tQKBClFuFBMic_NDs9KUT57hvkdqjctrlfHqm1MQ-4oBA3epDjQX5rUueTwTR_o5JlK4/s400/IMG_2823.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I wouldn't mind living here!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgsotw8gdipMNwvgaXpMCa6XlJQmqQ3V-mapf2Gvhawvaw3xhSAmKejkro7Xhz98Cz_wGFjetOlx0VaTAfzKsbigyPZnOMrJLDac02pV3R4ndwdDyDDy0VpOkBHrhLr9xa5n8xGYdW4E/s1600/IMG_2824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgsotw8gdipMNwvgaXpMCa6XlJQmqQ3V-mapf2Gvhawvaw3xhSAmKejkro7Xhz98Cz_wGFjetOlx0VaTAfzKsbigyPZnOMrJLDac02pV3R4ndwdDyDDy0VpOkBHrhLr9xa5n8xGYdW4E/s320/IMG_2824.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHodTmkLrwGSqXxK9LNTA42lWXEgB9FyStldZdQrZmi8Zgx_5AcEY97On237bsSqAWG12a-WXTbQyJceha-38cXljRL-O02GE-INSPW8TIxiOSdWQoyMUbozUJgVhE46XmUJ2ug6QjZ0k/s1600/IMG_2834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHodTmkLrwGSqXxK9LNTA42lWXEgB9FyStldZdQrZmi8Zgx_5AcEY97On237bsSqAWG12a-WXTbQyJceha-38cXljRL-O02GE-INSPW8TIxiOSdWQoyMUbozUJgVhE46XmUJ2ug6QjZ0k/s320/IMG_2834.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFgSUPmLS2tGv-Lw4zWtscSIdJmCHqdud8Crr5_bh93TXFIKFH5OXSA2o_1iL28NydYcckTPcGqg43HZ5a6oAhAFQNrqVjhJT0iL0H_kCO_iZH2otJhUw5RVaB8ElFfcSWyfs1j0mFJw/s1600/IMG_2855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFgSUPmLS2tGv-Lw4zWtscSIdJmCHqdud8Crr5_bh93TXFIKFH5OXSA2o_1iL28NydYcckTPcGqg43HZ5a6oAhAFQNrqVjhJT0iL0H_kCO_iZH2otJhUw5RVaB8ElFfcSWyfs1j0mFJw/s320/IMG_2855.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle0CNQwHf12XqrpJ-Qa-JQhBm9ddEYmiFFwOB9ZbSLG5MrrAcStYIW2uFQblpu89_61WTCQYxtmzT-XYPEQmgdWKCX_-It2d8xUI0ezRFzyUids8E1_P77Fkexq26YAnyTQx0PdM2eF0/s1600/IMG_2874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle0CNQwHf12XqrpJ-Qa-JQhBm9ddEYmiFFwOB9ZbSLG5MrrAcStYIW2uFQblpu89_61WTCQYxtmzT-XYPEQmgdWKCX_-It2d8xUI0ezRFzyUids8E1_P77Fkexq26YAnyTQx0PdM2eF0/s320/IMG_2874.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Pity there are not my ancestors!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilttWdGPHkoNL8QPt1nk5iR-8T6UfHTIIH186BkS2uqI8W_AKpjkE8LYgF_UfSMKvRdNynZjaE-O-PdplbCnoKMFLcdkYnDUCitkeo683IVy1aZHqoGrbqgjiz3xUa7h1wSbgnFl0MWFc/s1600/IMG_2842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilttWdGPHkoNL8QPt1nk5iR-8T6UfHTIIH186BkS2uqI8W_AKpjkE8LYgF_UfSMKvRdNynZjaE-O-PdplbCnoKMFLcdkYnDUCitkeo683IVy1aZHqoGrbqgjiz3xUa7h1wSbgnFl0MWFc/s320/IMG_2842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is the traditional ancestral family worshipping hall, where the names of ancestors were put on plaques like an altar.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_N3AxFwUYPF2Lb4rD9ZNc6AxrTt4SrCC-rSgwHcGy9BmWlYYQ2xxUOfuGN4GuWVO07dk6hdxIVFWoBcjrDWOQXa-b120zBW53Ie7tvB0h_bAv_cosMmQL2RHpgkpzVs9TuXz9V4kkohU/s1600/IMG_2884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_N3AxFwUYPF2Lb4rD9ZNc6AxrTt4SrCC-rSgwHcGy9BmWlYYQ2xxUOfuGN4GuWVO07dk6hdxIVFWoBcjrDWOQXa-b120zBW53Ie7tvB0h_bAv_cosMmQL2RHpgkpzVs9TuXz9V4kkohU/s320/IMG_2884.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Penang is famous for its food and snacks. Here is freshly made soft bean curd.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2t7AwKoaUryNcB2wjhMzCGyJx-PLSF1b-HO_Z9BQqgp_OTBPViQT_YhVmD9SWzPl2QIJwSguC_JDAxIkc92Vo5zhYu63dZVCkiAwogGynJEREyiDfu6Um9GthBMxpcCgBKfWjA5mTTqY/s1600/IMG_2895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2t7AwKoaUryNcB2wjhMzCGyJx-PLSF1b-HO_Z9BQqgp_OTBPViQT_YhVmD9SWzPl2QIJwSguC_JDAxIkc92Vo5zhYu63dZVCkiAwogGynJEREyiDfu6Um9GthBMxpcCgBKfWjA5mTTqY/s320/IMG_2895.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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..........Buffet Chinese style!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyvuFClFc3DCXDkbcEQOK5irPL6V8YV-7PN5_Mos93eIKxeWKUOnK1GpoDFJvWtor6UQpUeGgsIdVWzIPh1svIajXhB1VfDyEItrHoWGSZwyjKamxb8Ffb7_8dfMwTwmbfRSAt43D2KM/s1600/IMG_2810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyvuFClFc3DCXDkbcEQOK5irPL6V8YV-7PN5_Mos93eIKxeWKUOnK1GpoDFJvWtor6UQpUeGgsIdVWzIPh1svIajXhB1VfDyEItrHoWGSZwyjKamxb8Ffb7_8dfMwTwmbfRSAt43D2KM/s320/IMG_2810.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our friend also took us to a local restaurant famous for its chicken rice.</div>
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And I couldn't go home without doing some shopping, this time some local pastries.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0P1PwWP8RJHvavY4Gw6bc5OvmCiigiXb5xuihzy_sK7KRoY2MXe1omcaC7_ks2Jt9CvS9tRGsF9j3hvYaaiWYGdLYR1qsby43k-FTJayUzw7U7wggv7BP6U8OWZ3P3IYQ-WdT8AKFBA/s1600/IMG_2893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0P1PwWP8RJHvavY4Gw6bc5OvmCiigiXb5xuihzy_sK7KRoY2MXe1omcaC7_ks2Jt9CvS9tRGsF9j3hvYaaiWYGdLYR1qsby43k-FTJayUzw7U7wggv7BP6U8OWZ3P3IYQ-WdT8AKFBA/s640/IMG_2893.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>ChinaMangohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02437053708584830318noreply@blogger.com1