On to China

So here I am, sitting in a Beijing Youth Hostel, paying for internet...

I want to open by saying that Beijing is nothing like I expected. During the little time I've spent in the big smoke (literally), I've decided that it's nothing like Japan. The people are different, the food is cheaper and there are 10 times more people shoving pamphlets in your face.

I was lucky enough to be picked up from the airport by the cousin of a friends PA (Mark Samlal = friend). It's funny how far association trees stretch.. She helped me catch a train to my Youth Hostel, where I checked in and familiarised myself with the facilities. It's a pretty cool place. It's got a pool table, large screen tv, full bar and lounge, showers, toilets, a proper reception and AU$2/hour internet.

The actual hostel is located to the west of the Imperial City and Tiennamen Square, a big tourist hub. Speaking of which, I was lucky enough to see "the lowering of the flag" this afternoon which is a big ceremony performed every morning and afternoon by a full brigade of armed Chinese soldiers.

Tomorrow I'm looking at exploring the area a bit more. With any luck, by nightfall, I will have visited the Imperial Palace, Tiannamen Square, the Olympic grounds and whatever else I come across in the process.