China was such an unknown destination for me however our lovely guide, Becky, soon put our minds (and feet) at rest. With her skilled driver who did a u turn in the busy Beijing traffic on our first day and took us straight to The Great Wall because of the beautiful clear blue sky and the amazingly warm weather. My fear of heights and having to use the Gondola was again gently eased by Becky. The experience was so spectacular and I felt so exhilarated there that i could have hang glided down if i was allowed! Becky patiently waited while my husband wished to walk to the next gate. She knew the best places to take fantastic photos, was able to manage 2 cameras together, knew her history inside out ( she has a degree in ‘Guiding’!) She was kind, informative, helpful in her advice of the best times to visit Shrines and Palaces, I could live at The Temple of Heaven, such a great experience seeing locals out exercising, sharing stories, doing calligraphy, dancing in the grounds. Apart from the major sites of The Forbidden City, Summer Palace and Tiananmen Square, she took us at our request to The Pearl Market, advised of best shopping options, Peking Duck Dinners and answered our questions with great knowledge and impeccable English. It was like travelling with a friend! She arranged a rickshaw ride through the Hutongs and cycled behind us so she could explain what was going on, followed by a gorgeous lunch at Quing’s mothers house. This trip could not have gone better. Thank you so much Becky and we hope to come back one day!!!
Lyn
Wellington