Beijing at Last

Last night we caught the overnight train to Beijing.  When we got to the train station it just seemed like a seething mass of people, thank goodness we had a guide to get us sorted or we would probably still be there trying to find the right place. The train was surprisingly clean and comfortable, or as comfortable as Asian beds are.  We had someone sharing our compartment who snored all night.  In fact at various stages of the night he was joined by David and Ella, all snoring!  It was a fabulous trip and I (Chaz) spent quite a bit of the night staring out of the window at the countryside that could be seen in the dark.
Our next guide was waiting for us on the platform in Beijing and, even though we knew it would be cold, it was still a bit of a shock.  Our hotel is right in the centre of the city close to all sorts of interesting sights and sounds.
We walked to a park about 50 minutes away where David had read about ice-skating and yes it was frozen and yes David was able to skate! The locals were shoving themselves around on the ice on funny little iron chairs powered by hand held ice spikes..

We met some Kiwi's who have been here for three and a half years and they gave us some tips on what to do and see.
This afternoon we walked to Teiniman Square.  Amazing to actually be in a place that has been so important in Chinese history.
Still can't find great food though!  We have struck the 'yellow line' a few times - keep behind it or else...?  And plenty of guards!  Tonight we witnessed the lowering of the flag - seemed quite a ritual including goose stepping.

Tomorrow the Great Wall!