Trip Number 4 - China
March 21 - April 14, 2024: Shanghai, Tianmen, Jingmen, Zibo, Tai’an, & Qingdao
March 20 - 23, 2024 Shanghai, China
March 20, 2024
Hi friends! Did you guess where I went on my next trip? If you guessed Antarctica, you're correct! Just kidding . . . I traveled to the beautiful country of CHINA!!
Before heading to the airport and jetting off to the Land of the Dragon, I had to pack my bags. Of course, I couldn’t forget my camera and passport, so I made sure to tuck them securely into my backpack. I really hope I can sleep tonight, but I’m so excited I’m not sure I’ll even be able to close my eyes.
March 21, 2024
Good Morning!
This morning, I finished packing, and then my chauffeur picked me up to go to the airport. I arrived safely and got my boarding pass. They still made me ride through the X-ray machine, but I made it through security with no issues.
I stopped to get some Chinese Yuan at the currency exchange before heading to the American Airlines Flagship Lounge for breakfast.
Did you know that 1 Chinese Yuan is equal to $0.14 USD? I hope I packed a calculator!
When I boarded the plane, I was surprised at my seat!! It is such a big seat for such a little tiger, but there are plenty of places to explore, and it is a lonnng flight. I wonder if I could convince the stewardess to play hide-and-seek with me.
I picked a nice, long movie and ate a lovely meal. The sea bass is delicious on American Airlines! Who knew fish on a plane tasted so good?
After exploring my seat area a bit more, I decided to take a nap. The flight takes about 16 hours, so I’ll have plenty of time to find someone who wants to play some games later. :)
March 22, 2024
I arrived in Shanghai, and it was the next day! The flight was long but great. I’m definitely ready to get off the plane and step out into a new country.
I made it through customs ok, but some people looked at me a little funny. I guess they were wondering why such a little tiger needed so much luggage. A girl has to be prepared for all occasions!
Even though I slept a lot on the plane, I’m still pretty tired. I decided to find some dinner and then go explore my hotel room. I bet it’s fabulous!
I had dinner with a new friend and checked into my hotel. Before I head to bed, I explore my room. I was right! It is BEAUTIFUL! The view from my window was spectacular, and the bathtub was giant! I’m definitely going to go swimming in it in the morning.
I’ll check out the lounge tomorrow morning before leaving for the train station, but it is bedtime for now. *yawn*
March 23, 2024
I had a goodish night’s sleep. This morning, I woke up and had a light breakfast in the executive lounge. I packed a snack for the train ride and relaxed in my room until it was time to go to the train station at noon. The view from my window is even better during the day!
I managed to navigate the train station all on my own. I booked a porter, or, as they call it, “red hat” service, to help with my luggage and waited in the lounge until time for boarding.
This is my first time on a train, and I love it! It’s so fun, and I don’t understand why more people don’t travel this way.
March 24 - 28, 2024 - Tianmen, Hubei, China
I finally made it to Tianmen, and I’m not sure I ever want to leave. The food is delicious. The scenery is breathtaking. The people are so friendly. And I feel like a celebrity!
Today was a long but fun day. I met some new people who helped me take photos. I ate SO. MUCH. FOOD and explored Tianmen.
I know I’m supposed to be here for work, but this really feels like a vacation. Do you think my boss would mind if I called in sick and just explored instead?
Tianmen was beautiful and I learned so much about the history and culture. If you want to know more click here.
March 29, 2024 - Jingmen, Hubei, China
This afternoon, I traveled to Jingmen to visit the Xianling Mausoleum and an ancient-style village. Although this trip was short, I enjoyed learning about the history. For more information, click here.
March 30, 2024 - April 13, 2024 - Zibo, Shandong, China
March 30, 2024
This morning, I woke up, checked out of my hotel, and made my way to Wuhan to catch a train to Zibo. I’m really looking forward to exploring a new city for the next two weeks and have plans to check out some nearby towns and attractions. Upon arriving in Zibo, I was treated to the delicious Zibo BBQ, which was absolutely amazing! Afterward, I enjoyed a much-needed foot massage before winding down for the night. It’s been a great start to my adventure! If you want to know more click here!
March 31, 2024 - Tia’an, Shandong, China
Today, I took a little journey to nearby Tia’an to visit Mount Tai. I did some hiking, enjoyed some incredibly delicious food, and even had the chance to meet the chef! To make it to the summit, I took a bus and then a cable car, which made the journey much easier. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking. If you want to know more about Tia’an and Mount Tai, click here!
April 01 - 04, 2024
What an unforgettable week in Zibo! I connected with so many amazing friends, discovered a fantastic bookstore that spanned an entire tower, and even received an invitation to a charming dinner party. Every moment was an extraordinary experience that I'll cherish!
April 05 -06, 2024 - Qingdao, Shandong, China
This weekend, I had a fantastic adventure in Qingdao, soaking up the beautiful sea and discovering the charming German architecture! I even enjoyed diving into the history of Hans Christian Andersen—his fairy tales are simply delightful! If you’re curious about the fascinating history of Qingdao, don’t hesitate to click here!
April 07 - 12, 2024
I can hardly believe how amazing my second week in Zibo has been—maybe even better than the first! I was overjoyed to reunite with my long-lost sister. I indulged in some tasty hotpot, explored an ancient street filled with charming shops, and visited a fascinating museum that also bakes Zhoucun sesame seed cakes! While I’m looking forward to going home after three fantastic weeks, I’ll truly miss this incredible city and all the wonderful friends I’ve made. I’m already dreaming of a return visit in the near future!
April 13 - 14, 2024 - Shanghai, China
I'm thrilled to be concluding my amazing journey right where it began, taking a charming train ride back to Shanghai for a final night before I return home to Texas. The incredible places and lovely people I've encountered will always have a special spot in my heart. This was my first visit to China, and I can't wait to say it won't be my last! To dive deeper into the wonders of Shanghai, click here!
