Edu-vacation

A friend who looked at our blog told us, "gee that sounds like a really educational trip." In retrospect, it really was. The reason we learned so much is that we had fantastic guides in every city, and each one's personality reflected their city. We want to make sure to remember them all so here goes:

In Shanghai, Zhang Fan (Rebecca), was all business just like Shanghai (but a lot of fun too). She is pictured here in Guilin in the background (she sent us this great photo from a recent trip). Rebecca was the perfect first guide, because she made sure all the details were in place and that we started our Chinese visit with the proper historical context.

In Suzhou, Ya (Vanessa), was very youthful and energetic and seemed a perfect fit with this old city that is literally being reborn in the new Suzhou Industrial Park (really a city). Ya loves her city and was proud of the great gardens that make Suzhou one of China's real gems. (Unfortunately, we don't have a picture of Ya)

In Hangzhou, Joe (we need to track down his Chinese name) was as sweet and mellow as this city by the lake. There was nothing he wouldn't do for us (including help us handle our laundry and shipping). Joe gave us a fabulous sense of this great former capital city, but also shared some of his favorite places like the botanical garden, a small art museum and the evening light show by Zhang Yimou. Joe told us all about what it takes for a man to marry in China and it's quite a high bar. What a great guy!

In Xian, Ren Wen Tin (Ting Ting or Jessica), was the master instructor, who reflected the class and tradition of the original Chinese capital of Xian (formerly Changan). We feel we can now pass the China Dynasties test thanks to Ting Ting's detailed description of every Chinese dynasty over the past 2500 years. She also cracked jokes, told us about local customs (especially wedding day shenanigans), and flattered David by telling him he looked like McSteamy on Grey's Anatomy! Ting Ting is pictured here with T. Ting Ting is a real gem.

Finally, in Beijing, Wang Meng (Joanna) was the perfect blend of responsible, thorough host and cool, accessible person of the world. Kind of like Beijing, which is one of the great capital cities of the world, because it's a seat of government and a home to many of China's young artists and leaders. Joanna is featured here with most of the crew. She gave us great insights into the Ming and Qing dynasties and also told us much about the Beijing of today. Joanna was great!