Every meal is Yum Cha in Beijing

The Great Wall at Multinayu
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Highlights of Beijing

First and foremost, we would like to spend some time raving about the food in Beijing. Dumplings, Peking Duck and other delicacies (except beef in black been sauce which the Chinese have never heard of) are standard and cost about AUD$1 to stuff yourself stupid.

Did you know... Beijing means "northern capital"

Beijing is very lively - lots of nightlife, international bands touring etc. Avril Lavigne is touring shortly. Also very smoggy and crowded - does not make for good photos!

The Great Wall again
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Everything in Beijing is under construction in preparation for the 2008 Olympic games. Most attractions were closed or under construction. Chairman Mao's tomb was closed and Mao's body has been sent to Russia for a touch-up. Incidently, in typical Chinese style, they didn't get around to embalming Mao's body in time so only his head is original - the rest is plastic. Thankfully, we don't need to worry about a ressurection of Mao when the technology is available.

We visited the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City. Summer palace was probably the most impressive, set on a massive lake and forest on the outskirts of town. Check out the photos we've attached.

Lea at the Great Wall
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We saw a kung fu show at the Red Theatre. The monks broke blocks of ice with their heads etc...

Joined up with our tour group (7 people). Mostly Aussies on the tour, one Canadian and and Irish tour guide. Group gets along OK.

Caught a night train to Xi'An