Day 7- Wuxi to Hangzhou

So, Blogger is a Google software, right? And Google is not allowed in China. We have a VPN, but it doesn't work well with WiFi. Scott and I are paying for international coverage on one of our phones per day. So, a quick blog at the end of the day is limited to the pictures taken on the phone with internet connection. Today, Scott was apparently manning the big camera, so I don't have a lot of pictures. We'll have to dip a highlight slideshow when we get home. 

Funny story about dinner last night. We headed to the mall across from our hotel. The hot pot was recommended,  so we walked in. The language barrier was so high! Our sign language and translator apps very very very slowly arranged for our meal to be presented. Eventually,  we just nodded and agreed and prayed. We were presented with a platter of pork meat from the whole animal. Tripe and tongue included. Mmm mmm. Actually, fried with onion and mushrooms in butter, it was quite edible. The head waiter was maybe 18 and super patient. He kept returning to our table to stare at us and offer tips on cooking and eating. It was hilarious. There were no other patrons, so we were doing a lot of guesswork. At the very end, another member of our group stepped in and the circus started over. What a patient waiter!

Today, we went to a pearl factory. Holy gorgeousness, Batman! It was a very tempting place to spend money. 

After, we got in the bus and drove to the mountain region of the country.  There were rice paddies, mag lev trains,  huge power generators and a truck stop halfway. We ordered Ramen and did MUCH better ordering this time! Plus, there were Chinese men eating, so we had idea of etiquette.

We stopped by the West Lake near Hangzhou. It was amazing. Weeping willows, sail boarders, flower beds, skyline views, mountain temple views. Absolutely beautiful! 

Tomorrow, tea manufacturer and then a long drive to Shanghai!