Thursday, May 8, 2008
Hello Family and Friends,
We have arrived!
Our morning began with a drive to OKC, we left the house at 2am.
Needless to say the drive was great , we were the only vehicle
on the road. We arrived at the airport early enough to board the
earlier flight to Chicago. We boarded the plane in OKC only to
sit through a thunderstorm on the ramp. Our flight to Chicago
was interesting to say the least, the turbulence felt like we
were surfing most of the way. Amy of course was praying HARD!
We had a lengthly lay over in Chicago, we grabbed a bite to eat
and tried to relax some. The people watching was a great way to
pass the time. We boarded the plane (747-400), taxied to the
runway and were delayed for almost two hours due to a
maintenance “issue”. All of this was okay with James and I
though because we had decided the night before to treat
ourselves to an upgrade to business class! Now, this is the way
to travel! We have been able to stretch out completely and
actually get some good sleep. We are offered food and drinks
constantly and the staff is phenomenal. We flew over Alaska and
part of Siberia. After landing in Beijing it took 45 minutes to
meet our guide. Vivian is great. She and the driver led us out
of the airport and we drove to downtown Beijing to the Capital
Hotel. Our first impression of the city was WOW there are a lot
of crazy drivers and people everywhere.
We checked into the hotel at 6pm local time. We have been here
only an hour and we have been out on our first experience. We
literally walked across the street from the hotel for water and
it was a trip. Getting directions from the bell boy, he tells us
and points across the street. By the time we made it to the end
of the block, we had already been asked if we need a ride to
'the Square'. Then he wanted to take us anywhere. It is getting
dark, we left him, he then followed us to the store and waited
until we came out. We left him sitting again. We were just fine
though, crossing the street. We now have bottled water and
chips, so we will survive for a while. We are now snacking on
Cucumber Lays chips and peanut butter sandwiches. Time for bed.
Our anticipation for meeting Marossie is building each and every
minute! |
Ready To Go.
On the move, in the air.
At the Capital Hotel! |
