1/22/03 - 6:15am
A broom brigade marches toward their next target patch of snow |
Still snowing this morning. I went down for the complementary breakfast, and then got ready to head out and explore in the little time that was afforded to us this morning. The snow finally tailed off as I got out of the subway (which was packed, naturally). It was amazing how many people were out with makeshift shovels and brooms clearing snow off the sidewalks. Even the military had broom brigades marching in front of the Forbidden City, shovels and brooms resting on their shoulders in place of rifles. Wandered around Tiananmen Square and in front of the Forbidden City... took some pictures, rued many other missed photo ops.
Was approached by an English-speaking local and his friend. They were overly friendly, and immediately started playing tour guide. Suspicious enough, and it didn't take long to see the payoff for them, as they led me to an art shop hoping I'd buy stuff. I did, though not for any great deals, and finally managed to get under way after turning down several offers for tea and food. I might have stayed if I wasn't so pressed for time and eager to get a few more photos of city life before I had to leave.
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