Saturday, October 15, 2005

Pagoda Sunset, Xilang Hill, Yangshuo, China

Our last few days in Yangshou have been mainly relaxed enjoying town and the countryside. One day we did another (long) bike ride and another day we took a scooter out for the day. We rode through more rice paddies and farming villages. We noticed that there was more activity in the fields this week with lots of people harvesting the rice. As we would pass by, most people would tend to say or wave hello, but reactions to us have been varied: some say hello first and are very happy to see us, some, when we smile and say 'Ni Hao" just give us a nod, and then others who look quite miserable or serious, surprise us and beam right back and make it all worth our while!

In town we have gradually got to know people - natives and travellers alike. All the staff at our "Bamboo Guesthouse" have been lovely and nothing is too much trouble! We have our regular haunts too, for food and beer. Monkey Jane's rooftop bar has been one - especially for sunset with the sun going down behind the Pagoda perched on the local hill. Monkey Jane herself has given us some Chinese lessons too, with some useful survival phrases for when we get off the beaten path. Phrases like "can I have my egg yolk runny please?"!

So as you've guessed we are really enjoying Yangshou town and we will be sorry to leave, but I think we will be back again soon! * Mush

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Hi Michelle and Martin,

Its great to catch up with your tour. I haven't been on your site for sometimes. Fantastic pictures and nice comments, I really got the feeling of "almost" traveling along with your. Very good when you are bored at work (the food sound nice too).
We are all fine in Paris, Rachel's sister got maried last WE. All the best for the rest of the trip.
Pierre