Well I think the worst managed to happen…..first off while the Chinese may have mastered the art of having fast trains going 350+ KPH they haven't managed to design their railway stations without steps. I was heading down to get on the train when I was pushed and next thing I’m falling down the steps with suitcase (all 24kgs) and bags all attached, almost got knocked out when my head hit the concrete AND then had my hand stepped on by some Chinese man (who was obviously in a hurry!) Luckily a young couple came to my rescue and helped me to the train where I finally found my carriage and seat and sat there feeling a great sense of despair. BUT oh no there was more to come in this minor drama of my life. I arrived in Suzhou, got off the train to be greeted by more bloody steps, finally made it outside…..to find no driver or guide. By this time I was quickly losing the plot and even my limited Chinese was leaving my head…. Imagine being surrounded by 16 (I counted them!) Chinese people all talking at you, smiling, pointing and obviously wanting to help but the language barrier was sky high. I finally got through to the travel agent on the phone who explained that the driver and guide had gone to a different railway station and they were on their way…all good me thinks….then the police arrive, lights and sirens going, 3 on motorbikes and 2 in a car and start talking to me in Chinese… not a bloody word of English between any of them!! By now I’m thinking I’m going to end up taken off in a police car and the panic set in……oh ****…..then suddenly I hear English being spoken…..my guide had finally arrived and was able to sort everyone out and get me to my hotel. I am now safely ensconced in my hotel room for the rest of the day – and what a gorgeous hotel it is. My hotels seem to be getting better each time. This one is called the Yuan Wai Lou (Garden) Hotel and the rooms are set in Chinese pavilions surrounded by beautiful gardens going down to one of the canals.

I’m spending the rest of today relaxing as I think I’ve had quite enough excitement! I can laugh now but earlier today I think has been the worst day I’ve had since I’ve been in China!! Will look forward to enjoying my time in Suzhou after a good sleep…..zzzzzz

I’m having major problems with my computer (guess who has a job when I get home Matt??) so am depending on the hotels computers to write my blog. Therefore it’s a little difficult to download photos as it takes so long but never fear I’ve taken heaps so you will have to keep checking back and I’ll upload as soon as I can.

Bye for now. xx