Shanghai

April 21-22, 2009
We thought Hong Kong was big until we got to Shanghai! Estimates range between 18 and 21 million people in this one city. I’ve never seen anything like it. The apartments went on and on for miles and miles. I finally have an idea of just how many people there are in this amazing country.
We were fortunate enough to go to a beautiful, ancient, water city outside Shanghai. Zhouzhuang had criss-crossed waterways, lovely bridges and interesting little alleys going off in all directions. Our English speaking guide made our trip that much better. We also got to enjoy a visit to four floors of amazing exhibits at the museum.
Yu Yuan Gardens were exquisite! This wonderful display was built in 1559 and was originally a private garden during the Ming Dynasty. There was a different view around every corner with pavilions, terraces, ponds, rockeries and wonderful walkways. Once done there we spent some time “circling” the old town market before walking back to The Bund and the ship. I hope you like the pictures. It was difficult choosing from the hundreds we took!
I have to mention the river as well. It was as close to a freeway as I’ve ever seen. Steady traffic of commercial boats 24/7. When we left they had to close it down so we could completely turn around and head out under the bridge! It took three hours to navigate out of the river and past all the apartments to the sea.
Beijing is next! We had a pleasant surprise on this last leg of the trip! I couldn’t believe my eyes when I spotted an Argyle science shirt up by the pool. Scott and I will have to get caught up with all the happenings at work and back home while we cruise from here to Vancouver. Not the best Spring I hear! You had snow on April first? We haven’t seen any yet but don’t know what Alaska will bring.
Take care, love Kelly and Blair