A Voyage in the East

We have arrived in the town with many names - Shangri-La, Zhongdian, or my own personal favourite, the Tibetan name, Gyeltang. Both of us had the same impression of the town as we rode in the cab that ripped us off (no meter - 10 yuan, I learned my lesson, agree on the price first): this town is unpretentious, unlike the touristic town of Lijiang which we couldn't leave soon enough. We enjoyed a lovely bottle of Tibetan Dry Wine, which was both dry and sweet at the same time. I have to admit that it made as much sense to us as it does to you, but it did - I SWEAR. However, later our view of the town was slightly changed when we visited the 'old town.' This is the part of town that has been turned over to the horrors of Chinese tourism. I have to say Chinese tourism is bizarre. Everybody takes a guided tour, in their own freaking country. You see each group with their own brightly coloured hat with tour guides leading the way carrying the same, brightly lit, flag. In the 'old town', we came across some 'authentic' line dancing. Authentic as tourists from Taiwan and Shanghai can make it! Having said that, the prayer wheel was beautiful.

Soon I will leave China. I am going to Thailand. On St. Jean Baptiste Day, June 24th for those of you who don't know, I will be attending a Canada Day party. This makes as much sense to me, as I am sure that it does to you. It feels good to be beating the Quebecers to the punch, or the beer, as it may be. Because of the time change, I'll be celebrating my nation a good 12 hours before you guys!!! HA HA!

Travelling Andy has also added a couple of countries to the itinerary. I will be in Vancouver for 2 days - from August 11th to August 13th, and then I will be flying to England to see my Grandpa, as well as a quick visit to France!