Summer Palace

Weather: lovely
Temp: 9 - 24
Exchange rate: RMB1 = R1,28
What's in a name: I've now been to the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity. Perhaps it will make me a better person who lives longer.

What the hell is going on with the Rand. Not a month ago it was hovering around R1,45 to the RMB, now it's R1,28! Seems like electing JZ as el presidente has done the rand some good. Not good for us though. Oh well.

I was in tourist mode yesterday. I dusted off Time Out Beijing guidebook and headed for the Summer Palace. I've been meaning to go for ages, but since it's the Summer Palace I figured it was best to go in summer. And I was not disappointed. A, it was a lovely day. B, the Summer Palace is magnificent. There's a museum with some of the artifacts removed from the many pavilions and pagodas in the complex. Truly impressive.
Then I ambled down the 750m Long Corridor, an outside walkway beautifully decorated to the Longevity Hill where I climbed what seemed like a millions stairs. Unfortunately you're not allowed to take photos of most of the really amazing artifacts and Buddhas, but I understand that a million flashes may damage paintings etc.

As a little treat I took a rickshaw back to the subway. My rickshaw was racing another rickshaw guy. But I think we had an unfair advantage - the other guy was peddling with 2 big Indian lads in the back.

Got home and had some excellent pilsner from BOKB micro brewery in my complex. Alfie, my flatmate left this morning for Qinbuangdao, where he'll be managing (having loads of fun) the Beijing Sailing School for the summer. Only 3 sleeps to go and then we go too. Now if only I can lay my hands on some bubble wrap.