On Top of the World!

I was asked several times what direction my flight would take to China - east or west... Well, the answer to that question was neither, we went right up and over the top! Here's a nice little picture of Siberia - for any who desire to visit their. Personally, I found it satisfactory to simply see it from my window seat in the airplaine!

I landed safely Monday afternoon in China, and then took about a three hour bus ride to Hangzhou from there. As soon as we stepped off the bus we were surrounded by Taxi drivers grabbing at our luggage and wanting to drive us to our destination. All I have to say is the roads in China are quite a trip! I have no idea how the drivers don't hit each other, there's never more than a few inches between vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians. It's definitely an experience!

I'm staying in a hotel here in Hangzhou, and it is quite nice. We have a western style toilet instead of one of the "squatters", something to be greatful for I guess... one of the comforts of home:). I haven't had much of a chance to explore the city yet, as classes started right away and are very intense to say the least. From what I have seen, though, it's a busy place here, and there are people everywhere. I don't think there is such a thing as only a triple or four story building anywhere insight. The other picture shows the scenice view from the window in my hotel room. That's pretty much the sights of the city all around here. If it's not a residential building, it's a large business district. It's amazing though. I'm loving it so far, I can't wait until I have more of an opportunity to explore the city. That'll come on the weekend though.

The Beginnings of My Travels...

The past week has certainly been a busy one. I graduated on the 18th, packed up the 19th, and drove to Indiana with my U-haul on the 20th. It's now the 21st, and I am finally getting to slow down a little bit. I am excited for all of the new adventures that I am embarking on, but do have to admit that it is hard to leave behind all of my great friends in Iowa - you all just need to move with me!!! What's wrong with a mass exodus to China :) ??? Speaking of, I fly out this coming Sunday, and then the crazy travels begin. I think I am finally almost ready. The only thing left to do is unload my U-haul into a storage unit, and breathe for a few days before flying to the other side of the world. We'll find out how ready I am for it when I actually get to Hangzhou!