Beijing was our first stop, and it was exciting to start out there since there is so many historical and cultural sites to visit. We arrived at night, and one of the first things we noticed was how terrible the air quality was. Inside the airport you can see clouds of smog hanging in the air- we were waiting at the baggage claim and at first couldn't figure out what it was! I think the highlight of Beijing was that we got to visit the hutong and we did a house visit with a local family living in the hutong. The downside of our trip was being rushed through the Great Wall, and having to visit too many factories- Chinese herbal medicine, jade factory, pearl factory, and cloissone factory!
This photo was taken outside of Tiananmen Square- it was a cold day!
Entering Forbidden City through the Tiananmen Gate (Gate of Heavenly Peace).
This is a group picture inside the Forbidden City. While we were there, many of the buildings were under renovation as they prepare for the 2008 Olympics and all the tourists that will be coming.
We had a chance to visit a local hutong- the owner, who has his arm around Adam, welcomed us into his home with tea and snacks. He raises crickets for fighting and has a son who is a chef for one of the local hotels. He was very welcoming!
Here we are at the bottom of the Great Wall. It was really cold, if you couldn't tell by how bundled up we are!
The steps were pretty steep and narrow. Here I am looking down the steps. Dad ended up stopping halfway through, because it is exhausting to climb up the wall- just ask Betty!
Here is Betty taking a quick break to catch her breath. It was actually pretty funny.
View of the Great Wall!
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