June 2

Visited a few markets, but were constantly bombarded by people who wanted to take us to their secret rooms. We followed a few. But mainly wanted some of the souvenir stuff that you can find at the open air stores. I picked up a few strings of pearls that match my other purchases, so now I can have a necklace to go with my bracelet, ring, and earrings (I’ll just need to get a clasp, and maybe have them restrung). Teacups (aka hot chocolate mugs) that change images when you fill them with boiling water (we saw these at the Terra Cotta Warriors teahouse, but they weren’t $1.30 a piece there). Silk robe, cloissene Christmas ornaments (PANDA!), and a few other items.

Went back to the hotel to exchange more money, drop off our purchases, and regroup.
FINALLY found Taco Bell, and had lunch there. It’s sit down, with a completely different menu, so it really wasn’t a taste of home, but it didn’t require chopsticks. We walked to The Bund, which is a more expensive district, a street lined with Western buildings, banks and hotels, as well as stores carrying Cartier and the like. Headed back to the hotel, stopped in a few more markets (and backrooms). Bought a backpack (knock-off North Face), and a Louis Vuitton wallet/keyholder.

A quick nap back at the hotel, then decided on Thai for dinner. Had trouble catching taxis (there was a slight rain, so most of them were full). Finally made it, and had a fantabulous dinner, if I do say so myself. Spring rolls, crabcakes, and samosas for appetizers. Wine, beer, and Mai Tais for refreshment. Then green curry, duck curry, chicken with cashews, pad thai, shrimp, beef…whatever, $200 later, 9 people had full, satisfied bellies.

Everyone except us soon-to-be Mandarin experts are leaving at 8:30 in the morning. We transfer to a different hotel for our extended stay (Crowne Plaza, the horror).