Beijing arrival

We arrived yesterday (Sunday) a bit worse for wear. 14 hours en route in a packed flight. Kathy said she thought we were sitting in a tube. Not the entire group made it: one of the guests passed through a body temperature scan at Beijing customs and registered a fever. Although it is part of condition that he has Beijing authorities said he could not enter the country or even stay in Hong Kong. He is now heading back to USA on a flight. Another participant's VISA had the incorrect date and she was sent back to Hong Kong. Hopefully she will be back today after getting the matter straightened out with the embassy.

Gerard Shiu is the in-country guide and very friendly and knowlegeable man. Buffet last night was to die for. The hotel is brand new and very luxurious. See photos of first day on Flckr.