Let's go fly a kite

This morning's cool but dry air with a touch of sunshine trying to break through the cloud was perfect for a stroll around the beautiful Summer Palace. We'd expected somewhere peaceful but it was far more interesting than expected, from the emperess' painted walkway and the life-size marble boat to the 1444 lions on the 17 arch bridge. The latter was where these lovelies were happily flying kites, more than keen to show a smile. 

Since then, we've stopped for a distant look at the Bird's Nest Stadium on the way to the airport and flown to Xi'an. A number of people had given the impression it was going to be a little like the craziness of traffic in Ho Chi Minh City, but far from it.  We have only just arrived though. 

We've had an outstanding meal of prawns and aloe plant, and aubergine and beans with steamed rice. The flavours were awesome but the atmosphere was decidedly odd with just the two of us eating and two more arriving as we left. Understanding people is comical as we're now at two words and the Chinese, occasionally, at a few more. Some have been using a voice to text translate which typically enhances the confusion but it's amusing. I acted out steamed rice today and somehow it appeared!

Tonight, we've strolled around the squares and pedestrianised areas near out hotel and enjoyed watching the dancing and kites being flown high in the sky with flashing lights.