Sunday I decide was the day to once again explore the city of Beijing. I headed out pretty early in the morning trying to beat the crowds that I knew would form. Hoping on the subway I traveled south into the heart of Beijing. Once deep inside of Beijing I transfered trains. At this station transfer I was crowed onto the next car of the blue line on the subway. It was impressive how many bodies can be fitted on to a single car. As we rode on to the next station there were was more bumping and grinding by everyone. At the next platform the impossible happened, we put even more people on to the car. At this point breathing became a hazard as we all had to breath in union with each other otherwise we might crush a few.
We continued to ride like this for a couple of stations before the passenger load started to thin out a little. At Xuanwu station I got off the car and headed out of the station. The first stop of my day was NanTang or the Southern Cathedral. I choose to stop here first because I really wanted to see the incorporation of catholic architecture in China. I have to say that both the compound and the church are gorgeous. From my brief stop there I returned to the subway.
Back on the train I had very few stops to wait before my next stop. At Jiangou station I got off the train again in order see the Beijing Ancient Observatory. The observatory is one of the oldest in the world and the artifacts are beyond impressive. The amount of science that came out of the building prior to the 19th century is staggering. All of it done with the naked eye and simple yet elegant tools. After nearly two hours out I decided to brave the return trip.
I got on the subway and head towards campus and some food. The ride home was the same as down, crowded and interesting. I have to say that I greatly enjoy the ability to just jump on the subway and explore the city. Besides the price is really cheap and it is always fun to be shoved into a metal tube and bounced around. So next weekend I think I am going to go to the Military Museum or something along those lines.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
Chicken's Heart, Cow's Tonuge, and Homemade Wine? - All in a night's work
Agreeing to go out on the town is never hard when the other option is sitting alone in your room. The idea of meeting more westerners is not only a positive it is also all the incentive I need. So with this in mind two night's ago I decide to venture out on the town with Karl and a group of people that I had yet to meet. Our night started out well, we had a nice collection of 8 individuals looking for good food and companionship.
So off we set on our journey by foot and by cab. Our original destination was not what we had thought it was. So with that in mind we set off to wandering the streets of Beijing. With the bitter cold and winds tearing the heat away from our bodies we shuffled across the sidewalk. At the first sign of food we stopped to debate what our next course of action should be...we had very limit options here. So we choose the closest and hopefully warmest of eateries.
Once inside we realized that we had arrived at a buffet of sorts. The atmosphere was interesting....it had a ambieance that you just can't explain. Anyways the food was the interesting part of the adventure. It was simple at first but it quickly became more interesting. At first simple meat was given to the table of 8 and then some cooked fruit....slowly more interesting items were brought out to our table. Before we knew it I had chicken's heart, cow's tongue, and what we were told was homemade red wine. All the food was quite enjoyable...the homemade wine was something less than enjoyable. The wine tasted of grape coolaid mixed with grain alcohol. To say the least I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. As for the food at first the idea of eating chicken's heart or other foods would sound repulsive but why not....your in China...might as well. So my idea....eat everything they give you....and just go for it. The first week on the ground has been a great deal of fun and I am looking forward to future adventures.
So off we set on our journey by foot and by cab. Our original destination was not what we had thought it was. So with that in mind we set off to wandering the streets of Beijing. With the bitter cold and winds tearing the heat away from our bodies we shuffled across the sidewalk. At the first sign of food we stopped to debate what our next course of action should be...we had very limit options here. So we choose the closest and hopefully warmest of eateries.
Once inside we realized that we had arrived at a buffet of sorts. The atmosphere was interesting....it had a ambieance that you just can't explain. Anyways the food was the interesting part of the adventure. It was simple at first but it quickly became more interesting. At first simple meat was given to the table of 8 and then some cooked fruit....slowly more interesting items were brought out to our table. Before we knew it I had chicken's heart, cow's tongue, and what we were told was homemade red wine. All the food was quite enjoyable...the homemade wine was something less than enjoyable. The wine tasted of grape coolaid mixed with grain alcohol. To say the least I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. As for the food at first the idea of eating chicken's heart or other foods would sound repulsive but why not....your in China...might as well. So my idea....eat everything they give you....and just go for it. The first week on the ground has been a great deal of fun and I am looking forward to future adventures.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Chinese not necessary...cycling skills a must
So it seems that the ability to speak is helpful here in Beijing but if you can't ride a bicycle then it seems your condemned to die. Ok...well maybe not die but you will be walking a great deal just trying to get between places. I was a little unsure of whether or not I really wanted to buy a bicycle. Thankfully my worries seem to be put to rest. The normally long walk across campus to the store was restored to a short jot on my trusty and rusty cycle.
Observations
-When they say hot water only three times a day well they really mean it. Trying to get a shower early was quite a bad (and cold) life choice.
-Having daily cleaning service to work through my room is quite nice.
-Ordering Orange juice with every meal seems to give the drink lady a good kick everyday....I am glad I can brighten her day.
-Photos are now posted on my flickr account
Observations
-When they say hot water only three times a day well they really mean it. Trying to get a shower early was quite a bad (and cold) life choice.
-Having daily cleaning service to work through my room is quite nice.
-Ordering Orange juice with every meal seems to give the drink lady a good kick everyday....I am glad I can brighten her day.
-Photos are now posted on my flickr account
I don't think we should be here.
Two days ago the wanderings of Karl and myself took us out on the town. In our night journey we managed to end up in a clearly western and expensive area of northeast Beijing. While traversing from one store and pub to another we encountered a jazz club that looked warm and inviting in the bitter cold night of Beijing.
As we entered the Jazz club that we believe was called 50's we noticed that not only were we not attired correctly but that we were the only men present under 50. Not wanting to pass up the warmth of the building and the good company of music (the beautiful hostesses were not a factor) we stayed for a drink. As our eyes slowly adapted to the darkness of the jazz club we also noticed another point of interest. Everyone was staring at us expect a few of the older gentlemen present.
With both of us noticing this peculiarity our regular conversation about world hunger and other pressing concerns were put on hold. We slowly started to evaluated our current situation for possible errors in our judgment. A cursory glance at the other males present revealed that none of them appeared to be short of money or power. It seemed that the center cluster of them was like a giant gravity well pulling all the power and clout in the room to their center. This observation by my esteem colleague and myself confirmed that perhaps we had stumbled on the watering hole of the more influential members of the none political world.
After finishing our overly pricey drinks Karl and I decided that another venue was calling to us. On our departure from the warmth of the club we noticed something that we had missed on our entry.....not a single car present was cheap by any standard. Our vague suspicions now confirmed we decided to exit the scene expeditiously via the subway.
My first venture on the Beijing subway was beyond pleasant, it was actually quite humorous. The safety videos presented to the captive audience always reference the red-headed cartoon as the ever vigilante and always noble hero. Riding the subway was like riding New York's or London's only cleaner and with better (at least safe) in car entertainment.
So my review...in your wanderings of Beijing read the surrounding environment and enjoy the wonderful and amusing cartoons present on the wall of the subway cars.
As we entered the Jazz club that we believe was called 50's we noticed that not only were we not attired correctly but that we were the only men present under 50. Not wanting to pass up the warmth of the building and the good company of music (the beautiful hostesses were not a factor) we stayed for a drink. As our eyes slowly adapted to the darkness of the jazz club we also noticed another point of interest. Everyone was staring at us expect a few of the older gentlemen present.
With both of us noticing this peculiarity our regular conversation about world hunger and other pressing concerns were put on hold. We slowly started to evaluated our current situation for possible errors in our judgment. A cursory glance at the other males present revealed that none of them appeared to be short of money or power. It seemed that the center cluster of them was like a giant gravity well pulling all the power and clout in the room to their center. This observation by my esteem colleague and myself confirmed that perhaps we had stumbled on the watering hole of the more influential members of the none political world.
After finishing our overly pricey drinks Karl and I decided that another venue was calling to us. On our departure from the warmth of the club we noticed something that we had missed on our entry.....not a single car present was cheap by any standard. Our vague suspicions now confirmed we decided to exit the scene expeditiously via the subway.
My first venture on the Beijing subway was beyond pleasant, it was actually quite humorous. The safety videos presented to the captive audience always reference the red-headed cartoon as the ever vigilante and always noble hero. Riding the subway was like riding New York's or London's only cleaner and with better (at least safe) in car entertainment.
So my review...in your wanderings of Beijing read the surrounding environment and enjoy the wonderful and amusing cartoons present on the wall of the subway cars.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The first dew days
The experience of traveling was quite enjoyable. The experience started off well but was long and tiring. I had the opportunity to experience the business class lounge in San Fransisco during my three hour lay over. That opportunity was a gift because I knew that the next eleven hours of my life resided inside of a Boeing 777. Those last eleven hours past quickly thanks to the comfort of sleep and a business class seat that went nearly a 160 degrees. During the last few hours I had the chance to meet another student who will also be attending Tsinghua this semester. After exchanging contact information it was nearly a time to de-plane the aircraft. After a full 22 hours spent in transit I finally arrived in Beijing
After arriving in the terminal the process of clearing customs and collecting baggage was a quick one. Leaving the terminal I was forced to try my language skills for the first time. The taxi driver and I had an good time trying to communicate with each other not that we understood each other. I don't think you have experience traffic until you ride in Beijing; New York, Los Angles, London all pale in comparison to Beijing traffic. The first five minutes of the cab ride were quite nerve recking as cars change lanes without signals and ride between lines. But further inspection of the other vehicles around us proved to me that accidents must be rare (well relatively). After successfully arriving at the East Gate of Tsinghua University I made my way to check in for a room.
The check in process was fast and interesting but really got me was the sheer size of the campus. Coming from Marietta to Tsinghua you really understand how small the Marietta campus is or how vast the Tsinghua campus is. Getting into my room was easy but once inside there were a few points that stuck out to my western eyes. For instance those of us who are comfortable with western standards for the thickness of a mattress will be surprised by how thin the Chinese versions are. Secondly a trip to my bathroom will reveal probably the most notable of differences between a room in the US and in the PRC. My shower stall and sink are a combo or joint unit that share the same space. Besides these slight differences the room is comfortable.
The first night in Beijing was hard for me. It is in those early hours of the morning when you wake from sleep and start to question yourself. Your mind wanders to the fear that is always present when leaving the comfort of normalcy. You ask yourself a multitude of questions regarding the adventure that your now involved in. You think of returning home and you question yourself for choosing this. That night was probably one of the hardest nights of my life. It is hard to turn off your mind when you start to think about such serious questions.
The rise of the first full day was refreshing and comforting to me. I was happy to have a day at hand to explore. I spent most of the day wandering the streets around campus searching for something and nothing in the same instance. But as I wandered the streets I had an overwhelming feeling of being all alone. Even amongst the a crowed boxed in by the walls of a super-market I still felt completely alone. But quickly that would change. As I had wandered the streets I decided to visit a "super-market" to buy a few items that I had not brought to China.
The event of shopping was quite fun with the help of a overly excited shop assistance I navigated the aisles and stands. But soon I started to notice that my basket was filled with familiar items. At that point I realized that I was about to purchase only western brands. Thankful the shop assistant noticed my this too. Quickly my basket was filled with brands that I had never seen before. After leaving the store I returned to my room and the task of un-packing. The event of shopping and the courtesy of the shop assistant provided me uneasy mind much comfort.
The second day brought even more excitement to my life. Leaving the building around 830 in search of a cab I met a rather nice Australian gentlemen. After a brief course of introductions we decided that we should both head to see the Forbidden City. The day was a blast offering us both an opportunity to try our Chinese and enjoy the culture. Around mid-day we decided to try our luck on a restaurant that resided within the Forbidden City. The food was amazing and so was the local Chinese brew that we both tried. Something though that shocked both Karl and I was how much attention we gathered while visiting the City. Karl would have to be a full head taller than my six foot three inches so I would venture he is close to 6'8". Thus with both of us wandering in close proximity we became the center of attention. It started with a single person asking for a picture which quickly lead to five more before we could make our escape from the large crowds. After leaving the Forbidden City Karl and I took it upon ourselves to explore the facilities outside of campus. Perhaps the greatest part of this experience so far is the excitement that you get from exploring. Walking into corridors that you shouldn't be in or entering a room that probably has never seen a westerner before. The excitement of learning and exploring is my true reason for coming to Beijing. My trip here for me at least has less to do with academics and more with learning how to live.
As more exciting things happen I'll be sure to post them (I have something about a Jazz club but still need to pen it). Also the pictures that I have will be placed on my flickr account soon.
After arriving in the terminal the process of clearing customs and collecting baggage was a quick one. Leaving the terminal I was forced to try my language skills for the first time. The taxi driver and I had an good time trying to communicate with each other not that we understood each other. I don't think you have experience traffic until you ride in Beijing; New York, Los Angles, London all pale in comparison to Beijing traffic. The first five minutes of the cab ride were quite nerve recking as cars change lanes without signals and ride between lines. But further inspection of the other vehicles around us proved to me that accidents must be rare (well relatively). After successfully arriving at the East Gate of Tsinghua University I made my way to check in for a room.
The check in process was fast and interesting but really got me was the sheer size of the campus. Coming from Marietta to Tsinghua you really understand how small the Marietta campus is or how vast the Tsinghua campus is. Getting into my room was easy but once inside there were a few points that stuck out to my western eyes. For instance those of us who are comfortable with western standards for the thickness of a mattress will be surprised by how thin the Chinese versions are. Secondly a trip to my bathroom will reveal probably the most notable of differences between a room in the US and in the PRC. My shower stall and sink are a combo or joint unit that share the same space. Besides these slight differences the room is comfortable.
The first night in Beijing was hard for me. It is in those early hours of the morning when you wake from sleep and start to question yourself. Your mind wanders to the fear that is always present when leaving the comfort of normalcy. You ask yourself a multitude of questions regarding the adventure that your now involved in. You think of returning home and you question yourself for choosing this. That night was probably one of the hardest nights of my life. It is hard to turn off your mind when you start to think about such serious questions.
The rise of the first full day was refreshing and comforting to me. I was happy to have a day at hand to explore. I spent most of the day wandering the streets around campus searching for something and nothing in the same instance. But as I wandered the streets I had an overwhelming feeling of being all alone. Even amongst the a crowed boxed in by the walls of a super-market I still felt completely alone. But quickly that would change. As I had wandered the streets I decided to visit a "super-market" to buy a few items that I had not brought to China.
The event of shopping was quite fun with the help of a overly excited shop assistance I navigated the aisles and stands. But soon I started to notice that my basket was filled with familiar items. At that point I realized that I was about to purchase only western brands. Thankful the shop assistant noticed my this too. Quickly my basket was filled with brands that I had never seen before. After leaving the store I returned to my room and the task of un-packing. The event of shopping and the courtesy of the shop assistant provided me uneasy mind much comfort.
The second day brought even more excitement to my life. Leaving the building around 830 in search of a cab I met a rather nice Australian gentlemen. After a brief course of introductions we decided that we should both head to see the Forbidden City. The day was a blast offering us both an opportunity to try our Chinese and enjoy the culture. Around mid-day we decided to try our luck on a restaurant that resided within the Forbidden City. The food was amazing and so was the local Chinese brew that we both tried. Something though that shocked both Karl and I was how much attention we gathered while visiting the City. Karl would have to be a full head taller than my six foot three inches so I would venture he is close to 6'8". Thus with both of us wandering in close proximity we became the center of attention. It started with a single person asking for a picture which quickly lead to five more before we could make our escape from the large crowds. After leaving the Forbidden City Karl and I took it upon ourselves to explore the facilities outside of campus. Perhaps the greatest part of this experience so far is the excitement that you get from exploring. Walking into corridors that you shouldn't be in or entering a room that probably has never seen a westerner before. The excitement of learning and exploring is my true reason for coming to Beijing. My trip here for me at least has less to do with academics and more with learning how to live.
As more exciting things happen I'll be sure to post them (I have something about a Jazz club but still need to pen it). Also the pictures that I have will be placed on my flickr account soon.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Present and now with Internet
So I've been on the ground since last Friday night. These past few days have been a truly unforgettable adventure. Thankfully it appears that the uncertainty of the first few days has worn off. Tomorrow when I get a chance I'll pen together a more detailed account of these past four days.
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