shiftfocus Musings and Motivations

Guangzhou to Hong Kong

The train from Guangzhou to Hong Kong isn’t a bullet train, but only takes about an hour and a half. Our train didn’t depart until noon and you don’t need to check in super...

Why you should stay at the Garden Hotel

I’m writing this as a separate post because I was impressed with our stay and when we mentioned it, our guide wanted to know what to tell others about it. I’m a better writer...

Huazhou to Guangzhou

Before leaving Huazhou, we had an interesting experience as we went to breakfast in the large dining room downstairs of our hotel. As I mentioned, they do not see a lot of westerners in...

Huazhou

We arrived in Guanzhou and walked out to a massive train station where we met our next guide, Sarah, who will be with us to the orphanage and for the rest of our time...

Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

After many long days touring and travelling, our group checked in to a mountain retreat and I must say, the stay was incredible. But, before jumping in to that, I’ll give you another China...

Chengdu

Our last full day in Chengdu was a mix of cultural touring and human interaction, which is really the more enjoyable cultural experience, in my opinion. The touring component was an afternoon visit to...

Xian to Chengdu

The chronicling of our trip continues and for those reading along, thanks for bearing with me. The days are full and I know a lot of this is just a journal of what we...

Beijing to Xian

We wrapped up our Beijing visit with a visit to the Temple of Heaven. This was the place the emperor would come to prepare himself for festivals and conduct sacrifices. It was a much...

Beijing Part Two and Personal Space

Our second day in Beijing was spent checking off another couple Beijing must-dos off the list. We went to Tiananmen Square and then to the Forbidden City. When we were last there, it was...

Beijing Part One

It really feels like our first day in China was equivalent to 3 days. Days 2 and 3 weren’t quite so full, but worth a summary, so here it is. We left Mudanjiang in...