I just got back from Beijing a few days ago — very cool trip. It all started when we met up with our tour guide Ricky on Saturday morning:

Ricky was a cool guy, and answered most of our questions. He definitely learned as much about the U.S. as we did about Beijing though. I think he examined my iPod for 20 minutes, trying to figure out where it was manufactured (I think he’s in the export biz).

Ricky led us around Beijing on Saturday and Sunday. Here are a few highlights:

1. The Great Wall

We lucked out with some perfect weather for The Great Wall. I’m not sure if you can tell from the pictures, but the stairs there are really steep and inconsistent. Regardless, we made it to the highest point, and got a glimpse of some amazing views. I later heard that another tour group (more of our friends) went to a part of the wall where you could ride a slide/bobsled thing down after reaching the top. It sounds like a cheesy experience — a cheesy experience I wish I could have had.

2. Kung Fu Show

I didn’t get many photos here for two reasons… 1. I didn’t want to get thrown out…. 2. I didn’t want to get round-house kicked in the face (cameras weren’t allowed). The show was AWESOME though. If you’re ever in Beijing, check it out at the Red Theater. It started out with a 7 year old doing a hand springs without hands (on his bare head)…. need I say more?

3. Silk Factory
Yes, this had a good possibility of being pretty uninteresting. However, I was delightfully surprised by the private fashion show:

…and my buddy Dan serving as comic relief on his birthday:

4. Summer Palace

I only wish we could have had some better weather here, because this place was beautiful.

5. “Christmas Father”

(self explanatory)

6. Pics of My Friends Creeping

I’m still laughing at these.

We’re about to hop on a plane tonight and head to Beijing for the weekend. Hopefully I’ll get some awesome pics of The Great Wall, etc.

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