Now that I am living in Beijing, I must do what the Beijingers do! (And yes, that is what people from Beijing are called.) I bought my first toothpaste in Chinese but I’m not stopping there. Tomorrow I’m going to pick up some shampoo, conditioner, and snacks!
I also bought a permanent subway pass. Beijing has at least 8 different lines which intersect over 30 times. At any intersection, you can get a free transfer–which means I can get to the other side of the city for approximately 40 cents one way. I’ll be utilizing the subway a lot to explore all over Beijing. The one interesting aspect of the Beijing subway system is that you have to put your bag, if you are carrying one, through an xray machine because the subways run under most of the government buildings.
I also got to wait for the train to pass the road in Wudaokou. Sirens started to blare from the surrounding buildings and gates inched their way across the busy street. Buses, cars, scooters, bikes, and pedestrians had to wait for a solid 4-5 minutes for a one car train to pass. However, it was very exciting to wait with everyone as they were looking out for the train.
Yay! There’s the train! I was a whole 5 feet away from it as it speed down the tracks.
I still get a little lost and turned about a bit in the city because it’s based on a ring system instead of a grid. However, by my experiences so far, I don’t feel like a tourist or guest but rather a part of the city.
0 responses to “I’m a Beijinger!”
Hello Eva,
Very interesting facts! I wonder, if they incorporate bleach in their toothpaste as they do with their make-up? I might have you bring us some home when your return home for Christmas break!!!! Your smile will be brighter than ever.
Glad you feel like a part of the city so soon! But, how could anyone every not feel so at ease in your presence! 🙂 Seriously, I am glad they are open to visitors, such as yourself. There is a lesson to be learned here…for all who read your blog!
Today is Labor Day! We had Aunt Debbie and Uncle Tommy over last night for dinner. We had a nice visit and got to sit out on the deck for awhile. Before we know it, cooler weather will be upon us here at home!
Love hearing from you,
Aunt Terrie
How are you getting around? On your own already, or with other students to help out?
So far I just used the subway once. Been spending a bit of time trying to understand the layout of the streets around the university. Definitely using the other students help but the subway is neat because their map tells you where you are now, the next stop, etc. It’s easy to see if you are going the right way and how many stops you have left until you have to transfer or get off!
Good Evening Eva, I was just checking to see if you posted anything new. Even though you just recently posted…I just wanted to say hello and let you know I was thinking of you! Love, Aunt Terrie
Missed you on Tuesday. Had to drink the caramel frappe myself!
I miss your caramel frappe! Nothing compares to it Grandmom!
Hey Eva!!! How have you been? I am so excited to see your blogs and also glad that you have had fun in Beijing! You almost have been to all the places of interest that I went to this summer~ I saw the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace. You know what I wanna suggest you is that there is a famous snack street behind Qianmen streest. I saw the picture that you were in Qianmen Street with Starbucks. Check that area around!!! haha I guess you are in the National Day break, exploring all over Beijing! Have a wonderful break!