Today was my first full day in Beijing, and I enjoyed it!
--Disclaimer: I promise I won't be writing a day-to-day "then I did this…" entry every day, but I have free time and want to remember it all later.--
I thought I had slept past noon, but it was only 8:30AM when I woke up. I met the two interns from App, PA and Annie. They showed us the way to our office where I was able to get internet for the first time, but not on my stupid CCI laptop. Had to use some sketchy file to get through to facebook, but was v. happy that I did. It was great to hear from friends from home! The office building is huge, and the floor that the UNC interns will be working on is just a huge newsroom. Can't wait to see it full tomorrow. The ASU interns will be working a floor below us with business-centric jobs. None of us really know what to expect.
We went to lunch, where I had Japanese food (don't worry, I had Chinese for dinner). Basically, we pointed to what we wanted on the menu. The crazy thing is that it was 25 yuan, which is barely over $3… and I still have a to-go box in the fridge. Next, at the market, I got some essentials, like soap and dishware.
After a coma, we took a taxi to a hutong (an old street with vendors, specialty stores, restaurants and bars) and shared some Chinese dishes at Taste. We met up with another American, Keith who has been teaching Chinese to students for a year and a half. He knew the place well and could speak Chinese. Knowing him will be helpful. We walked the streets and saw some strange things -- baby ducks for sale, Chinese people putting Lady Gaga to shame with the things they were wearing, completely public "bathrooms," etc. -- and eventually went to a rooftop bar. We were the only people there, so they treated us special. Basically, they wouldn't leave us alone and insisted we buy more beer. They even brought a TV over and tried forever to get it to the sports channel. More walking followed, complete with "lame live music," as the Lonely Planet travel guide book accurately describes, group dancing, and murky lakes.
After a quick taxi ride home, we're back and anticipating day #1 on the job.
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