Harbin: Nothing like the best

Nothing like the best

Just sat down on the plane, in a window seat directly behind first class. Tons of leg room and plenty of overhead space. This is probably the best flight I've ever taken. So far.

When I first arrived in Shenyang, I walked off the plane and instantly felt the cold air, rushing through my jacket, down to the bone. I'm imagining that when I get off the airplane in Harbin, it's going to be even more severe. An arctic adventure, really! I'm ready.

While I was at the airport, these gentlemen in front of me at the ticket counter stopped to talk. They were investors from Stockholm, visiting Shenyang to meet with the provincial bureau. Very nice. And very surprised that they met a young American woman traveling by herself to Harbin. They were returning to Beijing after their meeting, and then heading back home. My story actually makes sense in retrospect; when I explain that this is not my first time in China, then they are more likely to understand why Shenyang. However, I'm sure they think since I studied in Beijing that my Chinese is much better than it actually is. Although, I am getting better!

My driver was able to understand me when I asked him to wait while I ran into the Consulate for about 10 minutes. When I came back, I said "to the airport!" and he replied, "you were quicker than 10 minutes!" I EVEN successfully asked him to pick me up when I return to Shenyang on Monday. Well, the true success will be when he is actually there when I get back. I gave him my flight number and the time, so I'll look for him at the taxi stands. Adventures in China. 听懂了吗？(^_^) 我听懂了!

再见！