Hi, Had really good day today. Another totally packed day though! Have been leaving the hostel by 8.30am each day! Go me! I went to see the Hutongs this morning, for those of you who dont know what they are (dad) theyre the traditional housing that was in Beijing, all narrow alley ways, kids on bikes, men playing board games. Theyre being torn down now to make way for the Olympic games and general modernisation, which is quite sad. I went along one of the main streets there too, with loads of sweet shops. Later I went to Beihai Park, which is close to the Forbidden City. Very beautiful. Massive lake, with an island in the middle. Next on my list was Yonghe Gang, a big Temple. And yes it was huge! there was 5 main Temlples in all, one with a MASSIVE Buddha statue that made the Guiness Book of World Records in 1990 I think. Quite impressive! While I was at the Temple I ran into Don, a guy from the train. Was cool having a decent conversation with someone! We went to the Silk Market, a great vegetarian restaurant (wow! a proper meal!) and the Night Market. That was fab! All greusome food on sticks! Like snake! Tomorrow off to the summer palace with him. Rachel and Vix cant make it. Then start of tour. Happy birthday to J, Rach and Becky tomorrow!!!! G xxxxxxxxxxx