I am squeezing in one more big trip before the end of the year–a week in Shanghai. I was complaining to Marc about having another three weeks of vacation left and he told me if I booked a flight to China, he would take care of the rest since he’d be there on business. Hooray for a getaway with my surrogay!
I have to admit, even though we’re going together, I’m nervous about the language barrier. How am I going to get around that chaotic city while Marc’s working, then make my way safely back to the hotel?! You can always find someone who speaks English when you’re traveling in Thailand or Ecuador or Tanzania. But mainland China is quite daunting! I’ll have to get one of those laminated placemats that have pictures of a chicken, vegetables, taxicabs, the bathroom, the hotel…so I can point things out.
Last night, I was reminiscing with some people about a wedding in France that was absolutely without a doubt the best wedding I’d ever gone to. The groom’s side of the family sang opera during the wedding ceremony–like the Von Trapps. The reception took place in a monastery with the party going strong until 5am. When the groom’s niece played the harp during brunch the next day, I thought, “Are you kidding me? This weekend is so beautifully unreal.”
Some of my most vivid memories are from traveling. South Africa and Turkey probably top my list because I felt like I did so much (tourist attractions, restaurants, nightlife, outdoor and adventure) and experienced it alongside the locals.
nice! my friend elyse is going there next week on business. guess that’s the new international hot spot??
and be aware — i learned (after i made the mistake while traveling in taiwan) that when you ask if a dining establishment has chicken (“ji”) that word also means “prostitutes!” :))
have fun!