We left Shanghai yesterday in a “
bullet train” and it kept the promise of a smooth and fast journey.
So fast I couldn' t believe we had arrived until I saw the signs all
over the station. Clean, silent and comfortable, the train left
Shangai Qiao station (close to the airport) at 11h, arriving at
destination 11:49. The experience cost me 79RMB and it is worthy for
the experience.
Once in Shanghai, the taxi was not
difficult. My impression is that taxi is better anywhere outside
Beijing, even if more expensive. I honestly don't believe westerns
would refuse to pay more for a ride. Much more the opposite: in those
days you're in a hurry, a cab to take you without complains would be
very well tipped.
Back to Hangzou: the area around the
lake is gorgeous, and clean, and peaciful. Today is Monday and it
looks like all the crowd that usually runs everywhere in a billion
population+tourists seems to be somewhere else. This area is almost
like being outside town, blessed with beautiful view and amazing wide
paths and lots of green everywhere. Almost.
Around 7 million people live here, and
it's a number one destination for those living in Shanghai due to the
proximity. I can't imagine the hell this place becomes with people
trotting up and down in their noise tours. Peharps the best time to
visit is... now.
Mingtown hostel is the place where we
are staying. The double room with bath was almost 300RMB, and when I
considered to stay in a dorm the girl in the reception suggested a
double with shared bathroom for 130 RMB!
It was definitely the best deal since
we arrived in China. The room is great, the lines are clean, it's
big, cozy and facing the lake. And we are paying pretty much the same
as we were in a dorm in Shanghai. Just to have an idea, I saw from my
window a squirrel playing in the tree this morning. I also saw few
birds, but it's ok. The reception is a little far, and the internet
is extremely tricky, but the kitchen, the common areas and the view
makes you feel lucky to be here.
The hostel is close to the supermarket
(carrefour), to the bank (Bank of China, to exchange dollars fwith
best rate) and to few seafood restaurants.
Tomorrow Ill try to run around the lake
again. Our train to Xiamen leaves on Thursday, so we have some time
tomorrow to see few sights. I kind of regret not coming before- and
not staying longer. For some reason I think that three nights are not
enough.
