If its morning in Suzhou it must be Wednesday

We flew from Xian to Shanghai yesterday. Heavy fog delayed us for several hours. Another bus and a new local guide picked us up whisked us off to Suzhou, about three hours away.

The ride was incredible, first through Shanghai and the Suzhou. I have never seen so much new construction. Residential buildings, office buildings, factories and highways. We have read about how economic development in China has affected global markets, but never quite understood. Seeing it is incredible. I thought China commuted on bicycles. Not so. The roads, all the roads, are choked with cars, buses, scooters, and the occasional bike.

Last night we visited the Rich Man's Garden. Beautiful series of rooms, pavilions, ponds and gardens. Before "Liberation" it was enjoyed by only the Rich Man and his family. Now it’s enjoyed by all, which seems to mean "Western Tourists." We are reminded often of the rights we enjoy at home.

By the way, we can't get to the blog site. Send email messages to my office email address