Traveling notes

Departure flight from Toronto was delayed by 2 hours. Flight is also no longer direct to Beijing, due to weather conditions. Must stop to refuel in Vancouver.

We are very lucky the gentleman sitting next to the window is actively looking for another seat. Seeing David's legs all bunched up against the front seat, made worried him. He found a seat in the first row of the economy class. This is wonderful to all of us.

David slept most of the 18 hours flight, and woke up for the meal intermissions. I snoozed here and there. Read Chatelaine and watch 2 french movies.

Landed in Beijing at 8:30 PM instead of 4:00 PM as originaly planned.

Funy how all these english speaking people that boarded with us, now all speaks mandarin on their cell phone walking out the plane.

We have to fill in 3 customs card each. One is for health security, second is what are we here for, and 3rd Surprised that we could purchase cards for our cell phones before passing thruw the customs. The custom agent greets us in an impeccable English, and after wishing us a nice stay, he asked that we rate his services by pressing one of 4 buttons icons with each a different grade of smiley:

D  :)  :|  :(

Everywhere huge banners and advertisement for the Beijing Olympic.

Cab to the hotel in a Toyota sedan similar to a corola: 80 YBM.

Notice the building are not lite at night. Energy conservation is smart. It makes for a unique experience: hey is this a temple? ya, but I can hardly see it.

Traffic is not mad, but nicely mixed method of transportation sharing the same road. Cuba remains the most poetic re: eclectism on a highway.

Checking in. No big bed left, only single bed. Come and change it tomorrow is the advice.

Breakfast is complete. Wonderful fresh fruits. Simple things makes me happy.

There is an IKEA in Beijing. Where isn't there an IKEA?

Conference registration seamless. A bit strange that guards looks over people shoulder while typing away.

more to come.. ciao