The Trip

Packing Thursday Afternoon

Almost Ready @ 1:45 am on Thursday.

Heading through the airport 5:30am Friday.

Waiting to board in Newark to Beijing.

Boarding the International Flight

It's a long way, about 7800 miles, about 12-13 hours.

Despite the length, we were in good spirits.

And we enjoyed beautiful scenery out the window.

The mountains are incredible. And they just go on and on forever, with no one living there. Last trip we were able to see the North Pole out the window, but this time it was totally dark as we passed over. The difference between flying in May versus November. 

At the foot of some of the mountains are tiny villages, clustered around terraces rice fields, hand cut into the mountains by the farmers.

Suddenly, the landscape changes to neatly cut parcels of land, completely flat.

Finally, we arrive at the Beijing Airport, tired but still working together.

And are willing to have our picture taken.

The five hour layover takes its toll.

Even this hard bench was a welcome rest spot for me.

Finally, arrived into Guangzhou @ 11:50 PM!! 27 hours after leaving home.  Our guide met us at the airport and it was a welcome relief to have her bring a driver and van to pick us up and drive us the 40 minutes to the hotel and help us check in. We got to sleep around 1:30AM after organizing and unpacking and sorting out the sleeping arrangements.