Trip Through China

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Nin Hao (hello),

My wife Linda and I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to some of China's major cities. We did this during China's national holiday. This holiday celebrates Chairman Mao's announcement on October 1, 1949, that China was a new country. We traveled to Beijing, Xi'-an, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. The Chinese says if you want to know how China was 20 years ago, then visit Shenzhen. If you want to know how China was 500 years ago, then visit Beijing. But if you want to know how China was 2,500 years ago, then visit Xi-an (pronounced she-on). The first capital of China is in Xi'-An; 72 of approximately 350 emperors are buried in this city. One of the most interesting areas that we visited in this city was the site of the Terra-Catta warriers discovered by archaeologists. Emperor Qin, who was the first emporer of China and who both united China and gave the order for building the Great Wall, died in 210 B.C. The emperor at that time had 6,000 of these warriors made (see picture) to protect him in the after life. No two warriors look the same.

In Beijing, we visited the Summer Palace of the emperors, the Forbidden City, climbed the Great Wall (outside of Beijing), had pictures taken with Chinese children in Tienanmen Square and got lost in the Hau-tong district (considered old Peking). In this district, we toured a family's house that contained a lovely garden courtyard. On the gentleman's table were three pictures of people who had visited his home. One picture was of Henry Kissinger; the other pictures were the Prime Ministers of Norway and Belgium--not bad company!

In Shanghai, we took a delightful night boat trip that went pass the city's downtown district. One of the landmarks was a building containing several ball-like shapes (see picture). Shanghai is known as the commercial center of China, while Beijing is considered the political center (It also has great Peiking Duck.). Shanghai is also known for its world famous dumplings--they are to die for!!!

The people we met along the way were wonderful to us. Even though we could barely speak Chinese, they were very patient with us and invariably someone would know enough English to help us. My wife and I encountered numerous intercultural episodes from trying to order breakfast and having four people trying to figure out what we wanted (I actually had to call a friend on the phone in Shenzhen to explain to the waiter what we wanted.) to bartering in Beijing with merchants--which is an experience to behold!

In Shenzhen, we visited the city and the university. I showed Linda around the beautiful campus and my 0ffice. She had a chance to met some of my colleagues and the dean in my college, as well as have dinner with some of my friends. Linda and I both found the people at the university delightful and the campus with its beautiful trees, flowers, gardens, ponds, meandering walkways a joy to see. The environment helps to make you feel at peace with nature as you travel the campus grounds.

Linda left with many good memories and numerous gifts for family and friends. Her trip home went smoothly. I look forward to seeing her and our family and friends in the next few months.

Zai Jian (good-bye) and may you experience peace and harmony in your life.

Dr. Haskins