During the National Holiday (October 1 weeks holiday), we visited Shenzhen. My daughter secured a job in Hefei, China and we had not seen her since she got here. So we met up in Shenzhen as she also wanted to see where we lived before we moved to Hangzhou. We also planned to visit some South African friends who moved to China in 2018. They had not been to some of the sights so we decided to take them to some of them. But as I have mentioned before, touring in China during the National holidays, can be very very crowded and busy.
We flew to Shenzhen which is a one and half hour flight and we were fed on the plane. Now in South Africa, if it is a short flight like that, you can buy snacks on the plane. But no way do you get a meal.
On the way to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.
Flags are up for the National Holiday.
Checked into the hotel and settled in. Enjoyed the beautiful sunset that Shenzhen has to offer.
The next day we met up with Franco and Carmel and the children at Louhu Market. This market is 5 floors high selling everything you can imagine. They even have a materials section where you can choose your cloth and meet up with a dress maker / tailor, show what you want made, and you can either collect it or have it posted to you. This definitely is an all day activity so wear comfortable shoes. And make sure you brush up on your haggling skills so you can use them here.
About haggling in China - when you begin to haggle start at half the price they are selling at. Work you way up. Don't go past what you really want to pay for the item. If they don't get to your price, walk away. They will more than likely call you back and agree to it. If not, then they really can't go that low. But, if you start to haggle and both get to an agreed amount, it is considered an agreement and is impolite to renege on the deal.
We met Carina at the market as well. She is a friend and a teacher at Green Oasis School where I taught before we moved to Hangzhou. One thing about being an international teacher is all the international friends you make along the way.
At Louhu Market there as a restaurant called TASTE. They also serve western dishes. So after a long walk around the market it is a refresher to sit down and have a bite to eat.
This restaurant is a gem tucked away in the corner.
We also visited the Window of the World. A must do for tourists and an all day activity again. I have blogged about this place before. Visit this link to read all about it. https://www.topchinatravel.com/china-attractions/window-of-the-world.htm
It is a great place for children and adults alike.
From the Eiffel Tower to the Egyptian Pyramids and the Big Ben there is lots to see. The landmarks are varied in different sizes and some of them you can actually walk up them like the Eiffel Tower. There are also different rides you can go on. Fun Fun Fun.
The entrance to the Park. On the left of this photo is where you buy the tickets.
We also met up with my teaching partner from Green Oasis School. One of the best teachers I have had. There have only been a few, I must say. We met up at her home and she taught us to make dumplings and sat down for a delicious meal.
Bella then took us across the road to visit Michelle, another Teacher from my last school. She had her baby boy and we were privileged to visit him. He is so adorable. Each of us having a turn to cuddle.
The last evening we ate at a restaurant that serves divine lamb roast. They place the Chinese spices on the side so the lamb tastes just like a western roast.
Some other dishes we ordered.
Great last evening with great friends.
Our trip ended too quickly. Soon Kerry, Paul and I were at the airport again, waiting to fly our different ways.
Keep reading and I will keep posting.
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