BEIJING OLYMPIC PARK & YASHOW MARKET

What did YOU do today?  October 12, 2011 - Beijing

What a day!  After a breakfast of Chinese vegetables, steamed buns, and leftovers from last night's supper, Ron, Joyce, Bryant and I set out on foot to ride the subway to Olympic Park.  Though the subway station wasn't too far, once we got down into the system we did a lot of walking and had to transfer from one line to another twice.  Once at the Olympic Sports Center we got into the Bird's Nest and were overwhelmed by the size and design/construction of the huge building.  Not content with just a look-see, we opted to take a ride on the SEGWAYs they had for rent there.  What FUN!  We'd seen them on TV, and they looked a little unstable, but once our 'coach' had given us some  instruction we got the idea and rode around the Olympic track three times.  Then it was on to the Water Cube, which doesn't look like much from the outside, but is so light and airy on the inside. Within the last year they have added a water park, complete with wave pool, and everyone there seemed to be having a great time.  Again the design is pretty amazing.


Then it was on to the Yashow Market, in Sanlitun area, where Ron bargained hard for a nylon jacket and pants, and attracted quite a lot of attention during the process!  The market is a good one, offering most everything the Silk Market does, but with less aggressive vendors.  We ate dinner at Morel's Belgian restaurant, one of our favourites when we were working in China.

Martha and Bryant with Mickey at Olympic Park

Ron and Joyce in front of the Bird's Nest - in the smog

Ron surveying the track

Olympic Water Cube, Beijing

Bargaining at Yashow Market

Kids at heart, riding Segways in Bird's Nest Stadium