The drive to the hotel in taxis was during rush hour so took about 50mins. Fortunately our rooms were ready as everyone was very hot and sweaty. No airconditioning as it is turned off in the hotel – late 20’s and humid. We started sweating when drying ourselves after the shower. Jo and I sharing so a good ending. Met at 1015 to go to the Forbidden City. Went via the metro system which is easy to follow – one interchange. Saw Tianamen Square but didn’t bother with photos as so much smog you couldn’t see anything. Then onto the Forbidden City which is supposedly the best preserved cluster of ancient buildings in China – home to 2 dynasties of emperor – Ming and Qing. Price for uninvited admission was execution. The Clock Exhibition Hall was supposedly an unmissable highlight – elaborate timepieces which were gifts to the Emperors – 18th century examples displaying an ‘astonishing artfulness and attention to detail’ which Hannah, Julie and I thought were very tasteless. We just aimlessly wandered as tired and very hot. Got to the other end and had a terribly difficult time finding a taxi – about an hour before we finally got one. Then decided a late lunch early dinner would be in order as we were starving. Found a local restaurant with a few people in it and in our best Chinese pointing managed to get fried rice and chicken with peanuts which was very good.
Back to the hotel and lent the laptop to everyone to check on flights and then out to the Chinese Acrobats Show – this was an absolute highlight – 150yuan – evidently all ex gymnasts and I wish I could have taken photos and I should have brought the DVD. The set was brilliant, the colours and the costumes and the things they did. This one woman could bend any and every way. Two guys in a human size mouse rolling cage inside and on top – so so so clever – heres me thinking Im pretty crack hot being able to touch my toes with my legs straight. All of us loved it except Lorna who was late and we left her behind and she didn’t get a refund. Back to the hotel and to bed as up at 0500 tommorrow.