I have been in Beijing only five days so far. I have found that a number of people near where I am living are as curious about me as I am about them. It seems odd to have people stare at me at first, but no one has been aggressive or verbally abusive towards me. I have found that many people respond with a kind smile when I say 谢谢 拜拜 你好 and it feels good to be welcomed in kind. 

Beijing is much bigger than I expected it to be, but I feel surprizingly safe here. The subway system can be a bit intimidating at first but after riding it a few times, I am more at ease with the hustle and bustle of this place. I am surprised how easy it seems to get around. Many of the districts I have seen are completely different which in turn makes it easier to find my way.

I have yet to see the Forbidden City, but I look forward to it with each passing day. As an archaeologist and a person interested in the culture developments, architecture and art styles of foreign cultures, I can only imagine the beatiful temples with there ornate paintings and fixtures for now. I have seen the zhongshan park and I must say it is a beautiful place to walk along the river that seperates the new developing city and the preserved history locked behind the massive walls of the forbidden city. Tian'an men Square， leading up to the Forbidden City， is itself impressive.

The portrait of Chairmen Mao leading into the square reminds me of several postage stamps I have collected over the years and I am proud to say I have finally seen this place with my own eyes. It is an amazing site. I look forward to visiting the agricultural museums and the military history museum when time permits me to do so. 

For now I am enjoying visiting my best friend Lin and her family and the personal interactions I have with people I meet in shops and along the streets.