谢谢 Xi’an

It has to be said that the 19 hour train journey was less than enjoyable, filled with people and pot noodles but it was ‘an experience’ as Kayleigh would say. Never again. However, it was worth it. Xi’an is filled with luscious gardens, intricate architecture (inspiring me every day) and wonderful people. When we arrived in Xi’an I felt exhausted but I was fully restored when we visited the Damming Palace where everyone could finally relax and embrace the Chinese culture as we watched some Chinese drumming and a parade.

We visited many tourist sights in Xi’an including the mountains, the drum tower (which you can be sure to hear from miles away) and also the terracotta warriors. The warriors were as impressive as I could’ve imagined. With each individual warrior being unique in its own way. This called for a group photo, we blend in don’t we?

The next stop in Xi’an was the famous Tang Paradise which I instantly fell in love with. As the sun set the lights turned on and the park truly came to life. Therefore, despite only planning to spend the afternoon there we decided to go around the whole park again. As an aspiring architect I was in heaven. Within every inch there was detail and sheer beauty. The small chinese lanterns lit up the buildings in such a subtle way. I could’ve pointed the camera in any direction and it would’ve looked beautiful.

Although I do love living in the city, Tang Paradise made me realise there is a little bit of me that is missing the scenic walks of Scotland. However, I must admit that I was glad to return home after our busy week away in Xi’an. Tianjin really does feel like home to me now.

As though one trip away this month wasn’t enough for us we made our way to the worlds longest glass bridge. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get a fright when I was told the cable cars weren’t opening until next year and that in fact, we were going to walk up the mountain. Somehow we were there before we knew it and we could see for miles. My legs were killing me but my face lit up when I was told we were going to the hot springs at night.

Relaxing in hot springs inside small caves with my best friends was the perfect end to a fantastic day.  Zen. 我很高兴。

We spent the next day at the culture exchange school attending different classes. In the music class we played a variety of Chinese instruments, we then learned about traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese printing.

Abi, Kate and I decided to join a Chinese painting class and I speak on behalf of all of us when I say it was fantastic. Despite not being able to understand everything it didn’t matter as the beauty of art is it communicates for itself. We practised our Mandarin and made lots of new friends from Russia, Thailand and Uzbekistan. Every week I look forward to going to my art class. Who said Monday’s can’t be fun?

Next week we have our mid term exams for our speaking, writing, reading and listening classes. Wish us luck! I can’t wait to see what November brings. 再见。