Day 5, Sunday * Hangzhou*

If there is one thing I learned today it is that people are all basically the same no matter where in the world they happen to be. I know this is an over-used cliche' but by the end of this post I think you will agree it was well used.

First of all, the forecast called for temperatures in the low 70's with showers in the afternoon. The temperature was about right but I would beg to differ on the "showers." I think West Lake increased in depth about 3 inches today with another 2 inches in various pairs of shoes. With the worldwide down turn in the economy I suggest that we layoff the weather forecasters first.

Hangzhou on a rainless day is one of the most beautiful places on earth. On a wet, soggy day, it is still a sight to behold. As the saying goes, "Above is Heaven, Below are Suzhou and Hangzhou." Unfortunately, my pictures today do not capture this beauty.

Before the downpour hit we made it half way up to the Taoist temple in a steady drizzle. When we finally made it to the top we were rewarded with the tranquil peace and solitude a Temple offers. Photos were not allowed inside of the Temple so we had to be content with the Temple grounds which are spectacular.

We ate a lunch of vegetarian noodles and worked on the field study packet. The students asked the temple stewards various questions and we continued on our way to West Lake.

This would have been an enjoyable walk but as it was we were getting wetter by the minute. Kojo and the chaperones (who were threatening to revolt) decided to cut the day short and return to Suzhou early as it was apparent the rain would not let up and it would be hopeless to continue with the planned activities.

Once we located our bus which was "just around the corner" we settled in for the ride home and an early dinner with free time afterwards. I am sure we all know men in the US who would rather drive in circles (or around a lake) than ask for directions. This is no different on the other side of the globe. Kevin Bacon was ready to jump off the bus and ask directions himself which would have been more helpful than driving the wrong direction to a tea plantation. To make a very, very long ride home short, we did make it back to the Scholar's Inn for a quick dinner and "surprise" birthday party for Antonio.

Tomorrow we begin our home stays. We are all a little anxious and excited for the coming week.

I do not know what kind of internet access my host family has so my posting may be sporadic.