Today we went with Marcia to the Forbidden City and Tianamen Square. I wasnt that keen on the Forbidden City as it was mostly concrete with pagoda buildings, no plants, greenery or flowers so it seemed a bit bare in comparison to some of the other sights. At the exit was a garden area which was the only nice part of it. After the Forbidden City we had our free time so Gail went back to the silk market with the girls and I went to see the Olympic Park with and birdsnest stadium with some of the others in the group. The stadium was cool but a bit disappointing seeing as we paid to get in. I expected there to be more about the olympics/footage/museum or something but it was just the track really. Had a look around the park, water cube etc then headed back to the hotel. So far I can say 'hello', 'thank you' and 'I dont want it' in Chinese - not much but its useful!

Tonight we leave Beijing for Xian by overnight sleeper train which will no doubt be an experience!