Mark Ellingham graduated from Bristol University before he headed to Europe and, on his return, invented and drafted the first 'Rough Guide'. Twenty three years on, and I’m lucky enough to benefit from that legacy through this fantastic travel scholarship.
Bristol to Beijing is five thousand, one hundred and forty two miles………if you’re a crow......
So, like international cargo, I am sat in the holding bay in Bristol; vaccinated, insured, packed, documented and awaiting shipping. All I need is a barcode and, in less than thirty six hours, I will be delivered direct, non-stop and in air-conditioned transit to the People’s Republic of China.
I am muffling little explosions of excitement and anticipation ahead of my trip.
I will, of course, blog during my visit and I’d be delighted if you would follow some or all of the posts. I will do my best to convey the wonders of Beijing and the Great Wall in my short time there. I hope you enjoy!