Packed our bags this morning as we fly to Xi'an this evening. First stop today was the Beijing Zoo to see the giant panda's. We are staring to get accustomed to large crowds but this morning was something else. Sunny morning and the number of people and the resulting human crush at the pander enclosure was unbelievable, bordering on dangerous. The giant panders were out and eating. It was an incredible experience but we missed seeing the baby panders as the pavilion was pandemonium. In was impossible to control your own space and movement and the pushing and resulting crush was becoming a concern so we got out of there.
From the zoo we went to a silk carpet warehouse where we were provided with a carpet weaving session and an opportunity to buy some rugs. Enjoyed the presentation but passed on the rugs.
Lunch time was a real treat and the best food so far. The bus took us to the Lingdang Hutong, a historic residential neighbourhood, where we were transferred to rickshaws to navigate the narrow back streets to a local house. Our table was set up in a bedroom and we ate the food prepared by the family. It was a real treat and incredibly tasty.
The day was not over yet. We then visited a local supermarket for a guided tour of the meats, poultry, spices and vegetables typically used and cooked in Chinese households. From here we walked to Bell Tower were we were treated to a tea ceremony. Very educational and informative. Well worth their while as most of us purchased souvenirs here. Speaking of souvenirs on the walk back to the bus I scored a bargain - a $5 Rolex watch!!!
Currently on the plane flying to Xa'in. All good so far!