Not an ordinary wall!

Finally at last, I managed to find a full uninterrupted day free to take a day trip out to visit the
Great Wall of China. Unwilling to join a tourist bus, I decided to take a local one to the less visited site of Mutianyu. There are around four or more possiblities of where to go to see the wall, but I chose the 'cheats' one, that has a chair lift or cable car as possibilities of finding your
way to the top.

Inviting a student along for company and of course interpretaion, which proved to be quite easy as obviously there are many a traveller to this spot, not only foreigners, but Chinese too, we found our bus 916 at the long distance travel station quite easily. The one thing that one has to be careful of, is that you take the right bus from the right stop, as there are two possibilities, one taking a two and a half hour roundabout journey and the other using the highway, cutting the travel time down to half.

The bus a mere 11 yuan per person and quite clean and comfortable, had a helpful conductress too. At the bus station we had added to our party a couple from Spain, that felt there was more
chance on getting to the right place if they joined us. Upon arrival at the 'end of the line' we were
pounced upon by a number of mini bus drivers, all wishing to get our fare and after a short negotiation, of 10 yuan per person, we drove for half an hour to the appointed spot. This fee included the driver waiting for our return, irrelevant of how long that would be!

As we disembarked from our cab at the parking lot, I glanced up at the mountain. Having seen in the past the impressiveness of the Masada Fortress (Dead Sea, Israel), the wonder of the Pyramids in Egypt I was not sure what my reaction would be to the Great Wall itself. I can only say that it is awesome! From the distance one cannot see the work that went into it, but the sheer length and breadth is what makes it amazing.

Making our way up the path we now had to choose are method of getting to the top. The young couple chose to hike and myself and young companion, chose the open chair lift. He admittedly was non to sure about this, but seeing that I was embarking on this adventure with gusto, agreed to do it too. As the chair swinging in the gusty breeze, made its way up to the top, I felt exhilerated; here I was out under the blue sky, away from the stuffiness of the city, out in the fresh hair, making my way to an ancient wall, that would remind me of my home city in Jerusalem.

As I was tugged off the chair and guided out of the way of being hit by it, I made my way up the
cobble stoned path. Here one could feel the history and only wonder how they had got up there to build this amazing pass. Entering through one of the gates, you can only wonder at the magic of the place and memories of David Copperfield magician sprung into my mind. In front of you
besides the view between the turrets is a slabbed stairwell way, either turning to the east or west. Splitting from my young companion, leaving him to conquer the way from one end to the other, about a two and a half hour 'walk', I made my way up and down as many steps as I chose, pausing, stopping, looking in wonderment at this amazing site. Here I was, standing on one of the true wonders of the world, breathing in the clean air and lost in enthrallment!

I can only say, that the true beauty of this spot, is not where you are standing, but looking up into the higher mountain tops and seeing the uncleaned paths, the ones that are still covered in weeds, unattended and stunning high above the valley below. What engineering, what vision, what will and determination built this site. After a while, I just sat myself down on one of the steps and gazed around me; of course starting a trend, because when I looked back, I saw that I
had attracted a whole entourage of visitors, all perched or poised on different parts of the stairwell behind me!

What can I say in my defense, I seem to attract attention wherever I go, but did succeed in going
down in the chairlift without a peep or squeal!

Further notes of wonder

It seems weekly I have to list further observations of these warm and touchy people. If a porcupine is prickly, I think that some of the population here have thorns. It is not that they are not polite, just that they are overly sensitive of exposure to westerners.

I have always counted myself as a non political person and know that many will agree with me that I am such, but here in Beijing I have been branded as the opposite, for I introduce or allow to be discussed too many controversial subjects, that are brought up by the students own curiosity and need to know! So for all of you business, or tourists wishing to travel to China whether for the Olympics or otherwise, be warned, do not ask or speak about the French, Japanese, Taiwan, Tibet, boycott or any other tidbit of interest and should the subject be brought up and an opinion requested, just politely refuse to comment!

I was stunned to hear from one of my students that she had been brave enough, at the advice of her father, to have the 'eye laser' procedure done some seven odd years ago! It was an extremely brave step, as here the opinion is that using the laser 'pollutes the air!'.

It is with fascination that I watch the Chinese in their inborn balance ability whether it be on bicycle, roller blades or a little child skipping along the uneven and somewhat daunting steps of the Great Wall! When I asked other Asians, who are not citizens whether they had the same
ability, I was told that they had not.

Taxi drivers, for all their ability to frustrate and infuriate the passenger, start to drive a little before they actually turn on the meter, I am not sure if this is just a quirk of their motors, or a
little reverence for a foreigner, but it is nice to see that they are not so 'finger on the button' happy as you enter, but make sure that you are settled as they drive off.

For a country of the flat chested, it is not surprising that here the men are more into legs than
boobs. It was a rare sight for me then to meet a young lady with a healthy endowment and
catch myself from asking where she had got them done!! So saying, as I was waiting at an appointed spot a couple of nights ago to meet up with a couple of students for a farewell evening for one of them who was going back to her native land, I was stunned when two women came up to stand next to me, openly staring, eyed me up and down and continued to have a 'pull apart' conversation about me!! What did I do? I gave them my most disdainful look, ignored them and they stole reluctantly away.

At the same spot, almost in the same position, I had opportunity to watch a couple obviously trying to contact some friends whom they were supposed to meet, by phone, the boyfriend, better dressed than the girl, was attempting to be patient and loving, but she, more than once
or twice, was hitting him openly in public! and the weirdest part was that he was letting her!!
It was not merely a playful slap on the shoulder, but on the cheek. In a country with such a large population and no shortage of choice, I cannot understand why or how he would allow himself to be treated in such a way, especially in public!?

Here in Beijing and I understand the same goes for Hong Kong and Shanghai, the term 'Shop till
you drop' certainly applies, Dr Phil if you are looking for a new posting, China would certainly suit the bill, as here the word 'shopaholic' certainly applies. How do they do it you may well ask?
Well, let us say that there are some advantages in having a one child family and a more simple household. Their obvious pleasure that you see on their faces can only make one smile, as there
is no en cumbersome worry as to whether they can afford it.

Lastly, the slogan for the Olympics reads 'One world one dream', a student pointed out to me this week, that the exact translation should be 'same world same dream' and he asked me which one I preferred, I am not telling, but now I ask you, which one do you like better?

A Confused Taxi Driver!

Four evenings a week, from Monday to Thursday I leave the Berlitz office in Chaoyang District and hail a cab to take me on a forty to forty five minute drive, to a hi tech company on the other side of the city, on the outskirts of the fourth ring road. This particular evening was much the same as any other and I had left myself plenty of time to get there (my days of being late largely modified).

Without too much difficulty, I hailed a cab, gave the area of where I wished to go and settled myself down in the back seat, opening my engrossing detective story to whittle away the time.
After about twelve minutes, the taxi came to a halt and I only raised my eyes to see what was the problem, as I heard the driver close the fare on the meter. His face turned around to mine, looked expectantly for his fare.

As I glanced out of the window, I realised that I was now in a place that I had never been to before, had now idea where I was and was expected to vacate the cab and pay the fare. I tried first in a reasonable voice, with hand gestures and repeatedly stating my destination to explain that this was not the place I wanted and even though he kept repeating the name of the place back to me, nodding his head in expression that I was the one making the error, we were getting nowhere!

So, I went ballistic, started swearing away at him in a non native language, calling him an incompetent idiot, cursing all taxi drivers especially those in Beijing that could not speak 'the universal lingo' opened the cab door, shook my fist and head at the meter, in a gesture of refusal to pay the 10 yuan (about 5 nis) and told the 'wanna be' new passenger in english that he was
entering the cab at his own risk, as the driver was a total non knowledgeable driver!

I then ran frantically from corner to corner of the street, trying in vain to hail a new cab, knowing that this fiasco was now possibly to cause my lateness of arriving at my destination on time!
Almost in tears of frustration, I finally managed to hail a 'don't want to take you driver' (common in Beijing) and only after gesturing with my telephone to his licence number and pretending to dial his company, did he reluctantly allow me to enter his cab.

Now we were stuck in the most unmoving traffic that I have been in for a long time, but as I had
no power over the matter, sat back and nibbled my already shortened nails. Eventually, we managed to drive onto the familiar highway and I reopened my engrossing detective thriller and settled down for the rest of the drive. As we neared my correct destination, I closed the book somewhat reluctantly and gave the final instructions on how to reach my place of teaching.

It was only some few days later, that I recalled this incident and it suddenly dawned on me what had happened. I had told the drive Wanfujing instead of Wanjing!, he of course had taken me to
the correct destination as per to what I had said!! I had cause not only to be ashamed of my mistake, but remembered too that I had refused to pay the fare!

Now I pause to wonder, if the difficulties that I have been having lately in securing a cab, is not because that particular driver has not posted a bulletin about me to all fellow cabbies, issuing a warning, take that crazy woman at your own peril!

Hatishyoo!!! (bless you!)

Well, now they tell me! 'Spring is the worst season', I have been hearing all week. If I remember correctly, those very same words were said to me when I came in January. 'Why did you come now? Winter in Beijing is very hard' they would say.

Truth be told, we are never happy, every season in every place brings its own share of problems and difficulties. I never even knew that I could suffer from Hay Fever before I got here! In England one is used to rainy weather and at most don't leave the house without the faithful 'brolly'. Many a picture has been shown of those City Gents, in their bowler hats, newspaper tucked under an arm, small smart briefcase and of course the every useful black, wooden handled, full length, umbrella. Of course it can be used for any number of things, such us hailing a cab (hot forgetting to throw a 'loose' with the wooden handle at some other 'wanna a taxi' person, if they dare to step in your path, or just to test the puddles depth before you step inside, or as a handle on a moving train so as not to use excessive arm strain.

In Beijing on the other hand, for a city that almost sees no rain, the sighs of relief and joy at the heavy blobs that fell from the sky, made me think that I was back in Israel, listening to the daily news informing citizens on how much the water level of the Sea of Galilee had risen. The skies seemed to darken alarmingly, the whole skyline turning almost a charcoal grey, when the rain began to fall, big splattering sounds they made as they beat the ground and unbelievingly, a whole array of umbrellas appeared in the passer bys hands. Did they have warning of the upcoming shower?

As for the sneezing, it changes positions of discomfort depending on the day. The day of the rain, my nose seemed to be of a better disposition, but I appeared to have a sore throat and scratchy voice; thereafer when all skies had cleared and the 'fluffy bits' that seem to fall from the blossoming trees returned, it was now time for streaming eyes, boxes of tissues and a hay fever ailment that I never knew I had!! Abroad they at least say on the news or write in the newspaper the count that day, but here all seem immune except for the comment........ 'Spring is......worst
season!'.

But, finally on a last not of observation, in this city of the ever riding bicyclist, I can only stand by and admire, it is amazing how these citizens manage to ride with one hand on the handle of their bike, the other holding an open umbrella, pedalling furiously along in the rain, without
even a skid mark or swerve to re-balance in sight and as for the male population, they don't worry at all about looking like a sissy, they adorn themselves with feminine colored umbrellas, the brighter the better, weaving their way through the traffic that is almost at a standstill and not a free cab to be found intent on making their way to work on foot, in order to be on time.

Next Year in ........?

The Jewish holiday of Passover began last night. For those who do not know what this festival is all about, I will explain in brief. Their are three major events in the Jewish Calendar, besides major Fast Days and New Year. These occasions fall in the spring, at the start of summer and in the autumn. Each one commemorates a different historical time.

The festival of Passover, that usually coincides with Easter, but not this year as there was a leap year in the Jewish Calendar, reminds all of the most important event in Jewish History, the coming out of Egypt, under the guiding hand of Moses, who had been instructed by God to make sure that Pharaoh, the king of the land at that time, 'Let His People Go'. A story book written in
Hebrew, tells the tale of the event and some of the following scenes that took place during the time of the destruction of the Temple.

Through song, verse, prayer and ritual, it is an important event that is spent together with loved ones and friends, a coming together of rejoicing, story telling and good eating. In our house, my children and I, would enjoy this time of year particularly and would at times invite others to share with us this occasion. We would sit long into the night telling and reading the story, as well as myself adding tales of explanation and facts that were passed down to me during my childhood. We would laugh and sing and make sure that we read the book from cover to cover, the telling being more important to us than the eating of the meal.

Rituals were strictly observed and traditions carried out, those of the past and those of our making. So, it was hard to be apart on this night. The youngest making his own meal in England, the third with his girlfriend's family in northern Israel, the second joining his sister, husband and baby at his parents house in the centre of the country. As for myself, I could have joined a Habad evening Seder at the Renaissance Hotel, but decided at the last minute that I did not want to spend money to attend their meal, however nice, but to do it on my own with the 'do it yourself kit' that my daughter had sent me from Israel and spent a pleasant, if not emotional evening reading and singing all the words and songs from the 'Hagaddah' the book that is used for that night.

One of the songs sung is 'Next Year In Jerusalem', so I say, next year together with all my family! It was different and that in itself is a good thing, but the best was when the children told me that they had thought of me, missed me and our time of being all together, that was the greatest moment, to know that I am appreciated, not for just being mummy, but for what I bring to the family. Thank you kids, I love you.

Lonely Traveller

Upon speaking to one of my sons this week about backpacking and travelling, it occurred to me that the above do not always 'tell the truth' or at the time they are experiencing all, they prefer to keep the problems and difficulties to themselves.

In Beijing I had opportunity to meet what can only be described as 'well dressed' temporary visitors. They came as a team, full of hope and expectation, willingness and eagerness to work, open availability and optimism. But, then after a brief two months, they had packed up their bags, almost without a by your leave and were off home for one and a new country for the other.

What went wrong? Was there a miscommunication on either side, or too much expectation? Did disappointment set in too fast, or the visa difficulties of the Olympics made it not worth the effort. Or was it simply a holiday romance turning sour with too much stress? It made me think
of myself. Romanticism is overrated. Each one makes their own choices when travelling and you have to remember to stick to your plan and original agenda. The minute that the adventure does not keep up with your expectations, is to hang up your 'boots' and set off home.

As for myself, do not think that it is easy to set myself apart from my loved ones, whether it be family or friend, but for now it is the right place to be. The learning experience is wonderful and the respect shown heady. The classroom has proven to be an interesting place to be in, not only one that shares language, but the opportunity to share culture and thoughts and truly fulfil the meaning of the word teacher. Today I think I was paid one of the nicest compliments that I have received since coming here. One of my lady students, told me that she repeated to her mother most of what I shared with them in class, including my ideas and way of life. She continued to say that her mother shared most of my opinions and was so happy that I was able to express them to her daughter, for she would not have known of how to start.

I found these words, heartwarming and supportive, especially when she went on to say that they, the students, viewed me as an 'earth mother'. It is not that I have not been told comments like these in the past, it is simply that to be told such words from a Chinese person, who is living in a time of 'reform' and change, was emotional and touching. I must admit that I am greedily looking forward to more!

Every week I try to bring forward new discussions and last week was no exception. The question of whether China is now a 'classed' society is one that comes up often and the fact that
now in Cuba citizens are allowed to own Mobile Phones! One never sees one's own hunchback, only that of others. The story of boycotting Carree continues, with the French Ambassador
making a statement that he wants to meet with the Chinese athlete that was 'set upon' by the French protesters, even though she was confined to a wheelchair, because he is sorry for the poor treatment that she received in Paris. The Chinese are still intending to boycott the supermarket chain from the first of May, but that doesn't stop them meanwhile from shopping there in bulk to stock up. Seriously though, the reason for their insistence on continuing with their threat, is to show solidarity with their country, in the only way they feel they can.

Even though I don't believe it is going to be effective, I understand their motives and admire their passion, but did point out that I personally have no love for the French, as my ex husband was one, but the French at the moment seem to dislike everybody and are even 'up in arms' that the French song chosen for the Euro vision contest is to be sung partly in English; as the singer explained 'it is the only way for him to express the meaning of the song!' Whoops, that sounds a little anti-french itself to me, be that the people or language?

As for America, that brought its own controversy, as outside the White House you had Catholic protesters protesting against the Protestant protesters, those who were atheist protesting the visit altogether and those who felt if he hadn't come to add financial support to the falling economy, who needed him!! I could not help wonder if people were bored and had nothing better to do with their time!

I still say to my students, if someone doesn't want to come, let them stay at home. That they should calm down and not take it all so personally for it works both ways. Visa update.. for those of you who are planning to come to China at present, remember a ticket to the Olympics is imperative or to be part of a tour. Business visas are only being issued for two monthly periods and all forms have to be filled in with a black pen, doing the for-mentioned does not automatically grant you plain sailing, but hopefully will help cut down on some frustration!

Sport Shoes with a Suit?!

Idiosyncrasies of China, never cease to amaze me. On my way to work this week I had to smile
to myself at the sights that met my gaze. On one side of the road, the only joggers/sprinters that
I saw, exposing themselves to the humid day, were foreigners. There they were sweating away,
exposing their legs in quite short shorts sprinting down the road. the amount of Chinese bicyclists that turned their heads to see these odd pairs or groups, was amazing to me that no one ended up in a head on collision!

On the other side of the street, I saw not one, but a number of Chinese men, making their way
to work, dressed in 'smart' suits, but with sport shoes on their feet. There was no extra bag in their hands, so I could swear that they had no intention of changing into more elegant shoes upon arrival and then again there were the sportively dressed pedestrians that were wearing smart black slip on shoes!

The attempt at smart dress in the men's department, still leaves room for improvement and help. Even though there are a number of elegant shops for men and the infamous 'Silk Market'
has enough attire to dress the whole of the male population in Beijing, it is not a place that is visited by the Chinese native of this city, but only the foreigner forever looking for a bargain.
So, the day wear of these local gentleman, lands up looking 'shiny'. It is not the well worn shininess that I am referring to, but the choice of buying the wrong material, that gleams and shimmers in the sun. It makes them look 'sweaty' and unkempt, which is a shame, because with the right choice of fabric and cut, with their slender and fit bodies from regular exercise, they could look a whole lot better. I am surprised that their wives and girlfriends, that do take care
of their own appearance, do not say something to them. Is this against Chinese culture?

For the frequent traveller amongst you, I will let you know the latest trends that are coming Beijing way. C & A, although now closed in England, has one small establishment here, Zara is expanding, but more importantly Marks & Sparks, H & M are intending to be here by the end of the year and Top Shop (only for the matchsticks) is coming along here too. It sounds from the above as if I am an avid shopper, but of course those of you who know me well, know this to be untrue. But as always, I like to be in the know and have succeeded in my brief time here to know more about the 'lay of the land' and cultural habits of the inhabitants than many others who have lived here a while.

Keep watching this spot, I shall update you of more 'inside Beijing tidbits and useless information'
all in good time!

To boycott back or not?

This week in my classes I brought a work paper entitled 'turn the other cheek'.
This in itself caused comment, for a mainly non-religious population, this phrase from the New Testament was virtually unfamiliar. Opening discussions began with the source of the phrase and the meaning of it.

Now why did I bring this particular piece? All the newspapers and news last week was full of the 'atrocious' behaviour of the westerners. As the Olympic flame made its way to England and France, it was received with rioting and
jeers, a complete opposite of the symbol for which it stands!

Some years ago, when our now President of Israel, Mr Shimon Peres, failed to be elected the first time for the post of Presidency, I was ashamed that day to call myself an Israeli, for I personally felt that it was a position that he more than deserved. So, when last year he was elected, it was a proud moment for Israel.

Last week, when I opened the news and newspaper and saw the pandemonium
that was taking place, I was ashamed that day to be a westerner. The Chinese people are not fully informed of the ceremonial events that take place during the Olympics and many a person has asked me why China could not keep the torch here in Beijing, why did it need to be paraded around the antagonistic world?
After explaining to them that this was a normal course of events, that it was the symbol of hope, peace and unity, their next question was inevitably, 'so why was
it attacked?', following with the words of comprehension, 'oh! we now understand, this was an attack against China!'

The whole week there was an uncomfortable atmosphere surrounding Beijing, as foreigners felt that their hospitable hosts were becoming antagonistic towards them following the reports on the news. During one class, messages were being received over the cellular phones, talking of boycotting purchasing goods in French establishments. Can you blame them? I certainly could not.

During this trying week, I tried, I hope successfully, to bring a little less 'touchiness' into their attitude and remove the embedded 'chip on their shoulders', as I kept trying to explain, if China has chosen to take this brave and
unprecedented step in opening the window to the world, whether it be a small
one or a large one, they have to allow themselves to be open to criticism!

For if at the end of the day, the games are boycotted for any reason trumped up or real and then China retaliates in kind, the only losers at the end of the day
are the athletes who have spent the past number of years preparing for this
event. We have known in the past of games that have had countries missing from the opening ceremonies and games, but it would seem a shame to do so here. When you are living in the country, as every politician that succeeeds to office knows, 'the view on the other side looks different!'.

If the world cares so much for justice and peace, the award of basic human rights and protection of each individual, surely we should help by giving our
support for such an event and be 'proving by example' how things are set aside
and done 'for the good of the people, by the people!'.

One or None!

In a country where the population numbers more than any other place in the world, where a government monitors and decrees that one child is to be the norm for the next 10 years too, you would expect that people would be rioting or complaining that this is not fair.

What continues to astonish me is that we in the west or Mediterranean think it is a crying shame, the people here not only take it with quiet acceptance, also decide at times, more often today than before, not to have a child!

Who are we to judge, for in the west, many people today have opted out of having offspring, choosing instead to enjoy a carefree lifestyle, not incumberred with a child, bills, schooling and discipline. On the one side, I understand their choice and commend it, for if you do not wish to add any further members to your immediate family, better this way than not, rather stop before you start and if you have, not only may live to regret that decision, but can at times
cause bodily or emotional harm too.

So it was enlightening for me to discover some facts about the upbringing of
children here. As I have mentioned in the past, children till the age of around two or three are carried everywhere (although now with the approach of spring
buggies can be seen all around). Baby 'powder' is very expensive here, it as if
the mother who chooses not to breast feed is punished and boxes are overpriced
in comparison to the rest of the world. As for nappies, well you have heard what
I have to say about those in the past.

As families are limited to one child, unless under special circumstances, such as
both parents being one child offspring themselves, cousins are called brothers and sisters! This can prove to be very confusing for the foreigner, as they will say that they were born in different provinces or parts of Asia, so taking a few moments to understand that they are in fact children of their respective aunts and uncles.

Last week I was informed that it is standard for a parent to stop touching a child after the age of seven, irrelevant if it is male or female and many a student told me that they have no memories of their parents ever touching, kissing or hugging them. They were under no doubt whatsoever that they were loved, just not physically handled. This point actually saddenedme, as being a very tactile parent, always having made a point of kissing goodnight, squeezing an arm or a touch on the shoulder of my children, I find it hard to hear.

Growing up in a family that left Germany at the start of the war and with a father who was in the British Army, I cannot say with candor that I was a first generation 'holocaust' child. This syndrome that my ex-husband suffered from, was when the parents were unable to show physical love, such as hugging, kissing, tickling.... with their children, as they had suffered so greatly during the war, either having lost their families or having been imprisoned in a camp or worse... that they were emotionally disabled and dysfunctional in the emotional side of their offspring's upbringing. So causing, as in the case of my ex, a continued emotional incapability to the second generation after WWII.

Although I personally understand and sympathise for these parents who grew up in a pre-reform China, I personally impress upon the next generation to break the mold and be demonstrative, all the more so, as having only one child
families it is even the more imperative to keep up emotional closeness too.

Some natives have told me that they do not wish to have a child, also that being over 40 will be too late, for at 60+ one is too old to be a parent. I agree with the first point, that having children should be a matter of choice and it is better not to have than to feel obligated to do so and allow your parents to be responsible for its upbringing, but as too age, with hopefully better care of diet, a lifespan
could become extended and in time 60+ will appear young.

Children are expensive to feed, clothe, school and provide for, but as a mother of
four grown up ones, I can only tell you again, that it has been the most rewarding part of my life. I would not change any a moment for any part of it, having been blessed for being able to do it. I honestly recommend it, but if you
choose otherwise, make sure you are satisfied with your decision.

It is Snowing UPSIDE-DOWN!!!

Sick as a dog, sniffling, armed with a box of tissues under my arm, hot and bothered as the building at work is still overheated, I am ambling along in these
strange spring like days.

Sitting at the head of the table, as I am wont to do during class, I was astonished to see what appeared to be snow floating upwards instead of down!!
Exclaiming out loud this odd sight to my students, I was greeted by giggles as they patiently explained, that this was a normal occurrence at this time of year in
Beijing. The beautiful cherry blossom trees, enveloped briefly in a splash of color, are now shedding their beauty and causing hay fever to even the hardiest of us, who have never suffered from this ailment in the past!!!

A humidifier is a must, it helps clean the air around you and even though you are unable to walk around with one permanently on you at all times, it does help
when you are attempting to sleep through the night, instead of tossing and turning.

Another factor of this spring 'fever' is the brightly colored costumes that are being worn by women everywhere. As in most countries of the world today, a spring/autumn suit does not get a chance to actually see the 'light of day', these
ensembles are made up of skirt and jacket in an array of bright spring colors.
Truthfully they match some of the 'bubble gum' colored cars that are driven
around the local streets, but they are a pleasant sight to behold.

Next to one of the bus depots, a band of 'retirees' were practicing their gymnastic skills, minus the jumps, as they pumped their arms up and down, twirling their batons that had brightly colored ribbons attached to them, in the morning sun. What a pleasant glimse that gave to an otherwise muggy day, all that passed could not help but steal a glance.

On the beaureaucratic side though, visa difficulties are still continuing. Visas
are to be issued for two monthly passes only and any foreigner wishing to attend
after the 31 July 08, will be required to present their Olympic tickets!

At first, I too was very frustrated by these new by-laws, but if you go on to read
my next entry, you can only but spare a little sympathy for these government officials, as they struggle against feeling slighted and producing the 'perfect'
Olympics'.

Young Chinese who wish to pass their driving test are now having a hard time
of it too. With new laws beginning in May, that on alternate days even number
plates will be allowed to drive and on the other days, odd ones, there is a general
clamp down on 'passing your test'. Of course in my opinion, no one actually has
to pass a test, because ' a take your life in your hands ' requirement is all that is
needed!! But, nevertheless, these 'wanna be' drivers have to read the Highway Code, or the Chinese equivalent of, answer 900 questions correctly on their
multiple choice test and then they can begin to learn to drive.

The first number of lessons are done in a driving compound, something like a
large car park, until they get the feel of the car. Shift stick/gears is the legal
requirement for passing. After progressing from these two stages, the next is to
actually prove capability by driving on the road, knowing where to turn left or right, avoid all bicyclists or leave them more importantly with their lives in tact
and lastly park the vehicle!!! No wonder I am nevervous every time I cross the street!

I am not sure who I wish more luck to, them or me!!

Odd Observations

Now it has happened to me too, I have finally experienced a 'western' taxi driver who expects
to be tipped, without even waiting for permission! Twice this week I was not given change, it
is irrelevant of what the amount was, but the principle in a country where tipping is not part
of the culture.

Workmen and they are in abundance, little dots of colorful tin hats moving as a swarm up and
down the scaffolding's, seem at lunch time to just drop down on their haunches and open some
mysterious lunch box and eat in any position, at any place!

The news on TV is always opposite to what is written on the CNN or BBC and only after two
or three days is it changed to lightly correspond with that on the inter net. More often than not
most of the web sites are blocked, or impossible to access, that only makes you ever the more
curious.

Traffic wardens look quite fierce, wearing almost army attire and armbands and caps, a little
too severe for the unknowing foreigner. Policemen seem to be more visible and out and about
these days, the numbers increasing all the more as the Olympic Torch is 'suffering' further
along on its way.

'Why do the foreigners live in communities?' I was asked, I could not think of a reply to this
query as the answer seemed obvious, kind always is drawn to kind.

Contrary again to belief, noodles are the favorite dish and not rice, but dumplings beating all
hands down. I wonder if they have a dumpling eating contest here as they do a hot dog one
in America?

For Houmus lovers, I don't recommend the 'Chinese' kind, as it is a light watered down
version of the original. As it was my birthday last Sunday, I was invited out for a meal, being
allowed to choose and putting my foot down at not eating noodles in soup, we went in search
of Houmus. As no alcohol was allowed at this particular establishment, one of my companions
went off in search of wine or beer. 50 minutes later, he returned with 4 bottles in hand and
could not understand why we were rolling about laughing at his behaviour! It wasn't that he
went that was amusing, but the amount of time he took!

Lastly, the best question of all this week, was if I had a choice of where to live, between China,
England or Israel, what would I choose? I leave you to guess my answer and upon my reply
was asked to explain. I can only say that the longer that I am out of Israel, the more I realise
how advanced it is in medicine and technology and as for the pace, well I am far more suited
to the faster style than 'laid back China', but whatever you do, don't say that to the Chinese,
they feel that China is moving very fast along, because haven't you noticed the fast rate that
the buildings go up? But as for worldly awareness, that is still lacking unfortunately far behind.

Nevertheless, they are a naive and mostly charming nation.

'On your bike mate!'

Living in Beijing is a delightful experience and one of the daily fun ones is watching the commuters in the morning, riding their bicycles to work in assorted attire. Seeing ankle clips
with trouser (pants) legs folded back, doesn't exist, it seems that these employees manage to
keep their clothing clean. There is an art to doing that, known as the 'bandy knee' as the cyclist
opens their legs wide, knees out and seems to ride along at an awkward pace! Skinny legs and
ankles is another, together with high heels, no scuff marks appearing on the heel as there is no
foot rubbing against the floor of the car when one changes gear, but unlike other travellers in far
off lands, they do not feel the necessity of riding in sport shoes, they have mastered the art down to a fine pedal.

So, here are a few examples of those bicyclists that I meet on my route to the bus stop.
There are the chatters, these are male and female or two of the latter, riding leisurely side by
side, hugging the door handles of the cars parked off on the side. They are in no hurry to get to
work and keep up their pace to the determent of others.

The business types though, have a folding bike, that can fit into a small bag and be kept under
their desks. These make them look like odd dark birds as they are conservatively dressed and
appear almost perched on their seat as they ride.

Now the 'stompers' , they have a heavy tread on their pedalling, they seem to slam down their
feet as they furiously pedal, appearing in an odd slow motion, bringing to mind the phrase
less haste, more speed.

Runners, they speed along as if they are going for gold, whisking past you in a rush of wind as
they ride along at top speed. The Sunday drivers are the worst, they are so intent on not
having an accident, that they leave a wake of wobbly cyclists and pedestrians shaking their
fists after them.

The most amusing are the laid back ones, they seem to have the longest arms, as they lean
back as far as they can, as if they are lying on a sofa. The moms on the other hand, they are
a serious breed, they have proper seats attached to their bicycle frame, to prevent their
precious parcels from slipping off.

Shoppers, they carry their wares anywhere they can hang them, in the front, in the back, on
their back... a leaf of lettuce draped around their ear and a bunch of radishes being worn as a
hat! Workmen are an art unto themselves! Whatever, however, whenever... all seems to find
its way to their bike, an amazing feat of balance and even engineering as they successfully sway
their way along.

Lastly, there are the lovers, not quite on a 'bicycle made for two', but rather 'two made for a
bicycle', as they drape their arms around each other, glued as if as one. And the 'smoothie'
usually a male, sporting black leather and dark flashy glasses, his hair sleeked back in Elvis
Presley style!

A 'sight for sore eyes' as the saying goes, a way to brighten up the early morning day.

Chinese oddities

-When in China do as the Chinese? I hope not.
Babies - toddlers play in the playground without nappies or underwear on.
-It can be freezing outside, but obviously their little bums learn to get immune
to the cold!
-At the slightest hint of sun, out come the sun attire, or large umbrella hung
on one arm. White is beautiful.
-Brown spots caused by the sun, can be magically removed within 7 days by all
kinds of miracle creams and lotions. Buy some and try!?
-Toy dogs are kept mostly by the retired, or elderly, but the licence costs
5,000 yuan. A government pension is around 780 yuan a month.
-On building and construction sites, the afternoon required nap of 30 Min's,
is taken whilst lying amongst the rubble, on a small mat.
-Even smartly dressed women can be heard and seen spitting on the
streets, at times sounding even worse than the men!
-Women bus drivers are in plenty and have no compassion or qualms about
mowing you down or sandwiching you in the doors.
-If you do not give up your seat voluntarily on the bus for an older person,
the conductor will come and demand that a seat be vacated.
-A strawberry weighing 50kg was grown in the Heilonjang Province and
was said to have a remarkable taste!
-One baby born, but there can be three mothers in charge of the little mite,
mummy, mummy's mummy and mother-in-law too.....
-Bicyclists manage to carry all kinds of materials, of all weights and
sizes, whilst they can't manage to balance their mobile phones while
they ride and can be seen stopping on the side of the road till they end
the conversation.
-In one school in Beijing, girls are forced to keep their hair short and
the boys hair is measured to ensure that it is no longer than 5 cm from
the scalp.
-There are many wealthy Chinese people, just as there are in other
countries in the world.
-The younger generation dabble in the stock market and invest their
money in gold or commodities.
-Medical care costs 2,000 yuan per year and any further incurred costs
above that amount, will be first paid by the patient and then have half
reimbursed at a later date.
-Restaurants are treated much the same as Westerners treat Coffee Shops,
people come and eat and then sit for many hours chatting, even without
the coffee.
-Eye ware is modern and bright, as Laser surgery is something that they
are afraid to do, not trusting modern medicine.
-Plastic surgery, is done mainly by the stars, the ordinary women prefering
to be bosom-less. If it is done, they usually claim medical reasons?!
-There seem to be no murders, rapes or robberies in Beijing, as the news-
papers seem to be crime free. (Maybe this is a good thing, as all live in
blissful innocence).
-The Chinese grand-parents believe it is their responsibility to bring up
the grand-child and often the child will live with them and not the parents.
-In some families, before the one child rule, sisters and brothers will leave
their offspring with relatives and work abroad for many a year, not in 'dirty'
jobs, but in good positions, not wanting to remove their child from the
responsibility of the grand-parents.
-Cherry blossoms begin to bloom at the end of March.
-Gas balloons are bought and weighed from a truck with a scale attached,
then the appropriate cash amount paid.
-The new established festival of 'sweeping the tombs' has become a public
holiday, but the Chinese are mostly cremated and their remains kept in urns!

Preparing for Sex!

A few days in the daily rag, was pictures of China's national treasure, the Pandas, being drilled in daily routines to encourage these lazy creatures in the preparation of sex!

This threatened species, of young male pandas, are now taking part in a rigorous
'sexercise' program to help strengthen theirhip muscles. They are being taught to walk on two legs, do a 'dirty' dancing jig and use their pelvic area. In turn this will increase their sexual awareness and stamina zoo keepers believe.

A lure of apples is the reward for their success, as well as the fact that without the promise of food they are unwilling participants!

On the other side, KFC, Kentucky Fried Chicken, are now going 'grill'. As an increase of customers are now taking to a 'better diet', the company has decided to improvise their menu, bu offering the grilled version of chicken too. It will have
fewer calories and fat, as well as hopefully lure in the health conscious consumer!
Does that mean they have to change their name?

Students graduating from the top universities in China are complaining that there
degree does not prepare them for the job market, even in America today, MBA
graduates will be much of the time, expected to take aptitude tests including general knowledge and assessment of body language. They should also be
armed with more than a passing fact or two about the company for which they are applying too.

For those of you who believe in Chinese medicine, although pricey as all is made from natural ingredients, boiled up and given to the patient as a drink and not in the common pill version as seen in the west, after almost three weeks on the 'concoction' that has had a variety of colors, I can only say that I actually do feel a lot better and have a healthier glow! To be continued...