A Few Days East

Due to what seems to have been a block from social networking sights (my Facebook page only worked maybe 1 of 5 times I tried to enter), I didn't have an opportunity to blog about my week in China. Here are some highlights.

Sunday - Arrived at the airport and took a couple hour ride to Suzhou. I got to see the smog of China first hand and was in disbelief. (Fortunately, throughout the week, I realized it just depended on the day. I got to see the sun at least 50% of the time...and while the smog isn't appealing, it makes for some amazing neon nights!)
Monday - Had the opportunity to participate in the Grand Opening of our newest facility; take a tour and meet more of the people I deal with via email in person. Such a great team! Enjoyed the dragons, music and most traditional Chinese meal of my week. During the Chinese roundtable, a plate of chicken was served - head and all! Yikes. I tried my best to hold back my expression, but the team must have seen it and immediately asked for the head to be removed).

Tuesday - Long day at the office, but then enjoyed a night in downtown Suzhou. Rather than Chinese again we opted for a Mexican restaurant. Dinner was followed by drinks in the hotel lobby (pictured below). My first shot of traditional 'bei jo' (sp?). It's a high alcohol-content drink that is part of the culture there, so I guess I had to try it. Haha, it made for a fun night and interesting conversation. After crashing in my bed, I woke up at 2:45am (the same time as the night before) however, this time I couldn't get back to sleep. Damn jet lag. So I got up, called Robert, signed on my computer and eventually went outside for a run at 4:30...Wednesday - Finished up our time in Suzhou and headed to Shanghai late afternoon. I was determined to get some personal time in and go shopping that night. I succeeded! I headed out with someone from our marketing team and had my first experience bargaining - - and bargaining hard! After the fun, we headed next door for sushi. YUM! Good night in Shanghai.

Thursday - Unfortunately, the night before was sleepless once again. Ran around in the morning working and finalizing logistics for our summit. I had the opportunity to meet some really great people and learn more about them during dinner that night; yes, more bei jo.

Friday - Finished up work and by mid afternoon headed back to the airport.

Surely, I'll be headed back to China later this year. And as great as the trip was, I'll make sure I schedule some weekend time before or after to do some sightseeing. This trip was just my introduction.

Xie xie friends!