Ed has become quite the accomplished train traveller:
Let’s hope he’s as good on boats, since we are getting on one tomorrow! Back to the Rickmers m/v New Orleans, which we have not seen since the first of July.
Tianjin, a port only about 50 kilometers from Beijing, is a way-station for us. We have been shopping here for snacks and alcohol to sustain us on the extended voyage back to the US. Leaving the port on Friday 13 October, our next point of interest (barring typhoons or nuclear attacks) will be the Panama Canal, then Corpus Christi, ETA 14 November.
The local shopping mart was typical of so many here, but we had a great time negotiating the acquisition of a promotional item (the wheeled carry-all) from the store ladies without a single syllable of common language between us! (We had to buy a large bottle of dish detergent which we gave back to them…)
Speaking of shopping malls, we have found that some of the best places to eat in cities are in the mall food courts – lots of options, not outrageously expensive, and the food has been amazingly delicious…. much fresher and tastier than what we have been getting at the hotel buffets.
Over previous visits and the past 5+ weeks, we have formed many impressions of China, its people, its politics and the ways things have been and are changing – thoughts and opinions that are out of the scope of an on-line blog. Looking forward to sharing those with any of you who are interested in the future.
For now, we wish you all well and will plan on sending one or more short postings from time to time from the New Orleans, as internet service may allow. Certainly should have much to report from Corpus Christi before returning to Houston on or about 18 November. Very excited to be entering the last phase of this adventure, and eager to complete our great circumnavigation.
Emerald Isle to the Norse Lands 