Today is our last day in China. Hard to believe 15 days flew
by so fast. For me personally, this trip was once in a lifetime. I would
describe it with one word: FASCINATING.
We got up a little later than usual due to our late night
last night. Jenette and I went to a delicious bakery for breakfast – a great
change to the normal routine. Everyone else in the group went to the same
restaurant that has had all of our “breakfast business” so far in Beijing (the
boys love these fried rolls filled with eggs and tomato, others loved the
Chinese pancakes).
After breakfast, we got tickets to go inside the Bird’s Nest
and the Ice Cube from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They are truly beautiful
structures. However, there are not that many seats in the audience (no wonder
Olympics tickets are so expensive). We spent some time just sitting in the
seats – imagining we were actually there for the games. An interesting fact –
part of the Aquatic center was converted into a huge waterpark and we saw lots
of people there today!
We ate lunch at the “McPatio” we like to call it, which is
the patio at the McDonald’s at Olympic Park that plays the same song on repeat.
Needless to say, we have the lyrics memorized. After that, we made our way to a
pearl market. It turned out to have a lot more than pearls: watches, scarves,
coats, bags, and high-quality jewelry. However, it is very intimidating. The
retail workers are experts at convincing you to buy more than you need at a
much too expensive price.
We finally got a taste of an actual Chinese Hot Pot at
dinner. I thought it was a wonderful blend of flavor with a mixture of meat,
vegetables, and noodles. The best part is the broth at the end with the yummy
taste of all the food.
So with this last entry, I’d like to say goodbye to China
and also reflect and vow to never forget this miraculous trip. May the Black
Rose, LAC bros, and Team Half & Half members have an everlasting bond.
Cheers to great memories, strong friendships, and an
experience of a lifetime.
-Christine
No comments:
Post a Comment