Bejing Day 3


Beijing: Day three: Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven

Our time in Beijing were made special by constant tussle with the guides or the tour operators. Each day, they came out with a novel and imaginative way to add to sweet memories. Now I can safely say that the tour operators / guides of China are as bad as in India.
While the first day, Cherry was a pest, the star of the third day was to be Michelle, our tour operater. Her standards of acceptable service levels were like lower than chances of a Vinod Kambli comeback.

The day started with the spare breakfast of odds and ends. I call it integration by parts, for there were fruits(once again), flavored breads, (tea) flavored hot water and some Chinese coconut milk which tasted like _______. We had planned to leave the hotel by 9 AM so that we have ample time for the day.
However, dear Michelle Aunty had a surprise for us. At 9.30 she announced that our scheduled driver was drunk and we should scout for one of our own. BIL was rightfully indignant and tried to salvage the situation as best as he can stating that since her company had ditched us in the last moment, they should at least arrange for another car for us AND give us a discount. Michelle displayed the understanding of a bull dog. Bill finally managed to convince her to send a replacement but she wouldn't accept a cut in price. She stuck to the deal but the new driver arrived on the scene only at 11 AM. So we were majorly delayed.

During the intellectually stimulating brain mash between BILL and Michele, Wifey and I  sneaked out and were exploring a nearby shopping mall. While she was busy hitting me on the head to keep me from getting tempted by chocolate and wines. It was only when I reasoned that I wanted to present dear Mom in law with a chocolate, was I allowed to have any. I obediently bought one for the family and only four for myself.

Tiananmen Square is a very large city square at the center of Beijing. It assumes importance due to it being the stage for several cultural & politically significant events for China. For non Chinese, the square is best remembered as the focal point of the pro democracy protests of 1989, which was tragically ended with use of deadly force by the Chinese government. Hundreds of protestors were killed in the event which was talked about all around the world. 

In front of Mao's mausoleum












The square was great but the super tight security equipped with Segway machines was noticeable.

Mother in Law, with her sari and traditional Indian appearance was an instant celebrity at the square. Hordes of Chinese girls and ladies were merrily having their pic clicked with her.


 

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