Taking Beijing by storm

We are in Beijing now and really having a blast. Both Jen and I have fallen in love with China, despite it's crazy drivers, endemic pollution and incomprehensible language. The people are very warm, friendly and seem genuinely happy. The food has been fantastic, despite the fact that we don't always know what we are getting.

Plus, we are being treated as if we are rock stars. People openly stare at us walking down the street, sometimes stopping to point and smile. Yesterday we had lunch in a small local restaurant and were seated at a table near a large open window. People walking by would stop when they saw us and just stare in. One guy left and then came back with his wife and son to share. While it is possible they are mezmerized by my absolute inability to use chop sticks (I really wasn't born with the right gene for that), but I think it has more to do with Jen's platinum blonde hair. As we were walking around the Forbidden City we were approached several times by young girls who wanted their picture taken with the blonde bombshell.

Here is Jen with one of her Beijing posse.

I want to share one other experience that I think many of you will enjoy. It happened yesterday evening at a market where Jen was buying a few pashminas. Below I recreate the negotiation to the best of my ability. Most of the time numbers are discussed by typing into a calculator rather than saying the number out loud, so that there is no confusion.

Jen: OK, how much for each?

Vendor: For you, RMB 350 (about $50).

Jen: That is much more than I wanted to spend. What if I want to buy five, can I get a better price?

Vendor: Yes, yes. You name price. How much you want to spend?

J: OK, how about five for 350?

V: Lady you crazy. You put me out of business! These are pure silk!

J: OK, thanks. Goodbye.

V: Wait, wait lady. OK, I make very special deal for you. Five for 800.

J: How about 350?

V: Lady, I can't run business like this. You put me out of business. 650.

J: 350.

V: You give me 600. I make you good deal.

J: How about 350.

V: Help me lady. Give me 450.

J: 350.

V: Meet me in middle. 400.

J: 350.

V: Lady, this deal for you only. No one else. I give you my lowest price. You give me 380, we have a deal.

J: 350.

V: OK, OK, 360.

J: 350.

V: Done.

She is really amazing. Meanwhile, I am peeing my pants as Jen just saved 38 cents per scarf.