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Having set my alarm an hour too early we have time to kill before our guide comes, plus I feel relatively human for the first time for a few days having struggled with tummy bugs and then a cold.

Yesterday was supposed to be a free day to explore the city so we set off for The Bund (in a green taxi as specified by the guide with our destination written in Chinese) This is a long strip of elevated promenade along the river. From it you can see all the beautiful colonial buildings most of which are now protected – the Chinese find these Western style grand houses fascinating but I think it’s a bit like many typical European cities.

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Hi team,

There is so much to say about this amazing country of contrasts.

Yesterday, Brian and I went on the ‘Harmonious Train’ to visit the ‘Humble Administrators Garden’ in Suzchou. The Chinese love gardens, and everything has a symbolic deeper meaning – but basically they are trying to recreate their amazing countryside on a smaller scale. Every time you turn, a different beautiful view is framed either by a carefully placed tree or a hole in a garden wall and the Feng Shui creates harmony.

In contrast, a visit to a 5 star loo (yes, they are graded) demands huge will power to survive. I now have amazing bladder control and can manage all day with only one visit!!

China is proving to be all that I had dreamed about since I first wanted to visit thirty years ago. People are fascinated by us – particularly my blonde hair – and stare wherever we go.

Back in two days. Pity.

Best love,
Patti

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