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"Why, yes you can..."

Well, it finally happened. I mean it only took 7 days, but it finally happened and then it happened twice in one day. Yesterday I was asked two different times if someone could take a picture of me. One of which you should be able to see here. (And no Mom, I didn't ask. Besides she's probably too young to be married.)

One thing you get used to is people staring at you. Now in the States that happens too, but here it's not just the ladies staring at me, it's everyone! When I say everyone, I mean of course everyone who sees you. I have almost seen a few accidents from a person riding by on his/her bike, and forgetting for a few moments that there is a road in front of them and that they are on a bike. People on busses are no different. Actually it's kind of fun to see a bus go buy and watch as this see of faces all move in unison to watch white guy on the side of the road. Many of the Chinese have this distant look which could easily be interpreted as "I don't like you". I have found, however, that a simple "Nee How" (spelled phonetically) will instantly change their composure. So it goes from "I hate you, leave my country" to "That's Awesome! The white guy speaks!" This is generally followed with a big grin and laughter.

Right now I am in Suzhou. I arrived here this morning at about 6:30 am by an 11 hour boat ride. The boat ride originated in Hangzhou which is one of the best places yet. Hangzhou is home of the famous West Lake and was tagged by ol' Marco Polo as being one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Now we all know Marco had a tendency of exagerating, but it really was beautiful. Hangzhou is also pretty famous for it's green tea. I'm not much of a green tea guy, but I did try some and not bad. You will often see chicke feet for sale on the side of the road (that's to eat), but yesterday was the first time I have seen grasshopper, crickets, and other 6 legged delicacies. I didn't try any yet as I had just eaten, but I've heard the catepillars are absolutely to die for.

Alright friends, I'm off to see what these "gardens" are everyone is talking about. Talk to you soon. ~D

posted by Travelin' D @ 5:45 PM