11th Oct 08 - Dalian

Ever heard of Dalian? Neither had I! Surprising really as it has 6m inhabitants which puts it nearly as big as London. Nothing too special about it except that it is the IT centre of China.

The Cityscape pictures below are just taken at random. Every street looked like this. Every street was clean, wide, bedecked with flowers with huge gleaming skyscrapers everywhere. No graffiti, no beggars, no poverty. Just smiling well fed faces everywhere. Whether you like it or not, this is the new world super power.

We then went kite flying...

Dalian city emerges as we sail in.

Zhongshan Square or the "Monument of Major Architectural Styles". It has ten avenues radiating from it - all with the most amazing modern buildings!

It may be modern but it felt both safe and comfortable. Here are people playing Chinese Chess in the street.

In a corner of the park, Chinese recorder classes were being held. I asked if I could take this picture and the Mum and Dad 'beamed' with pride!

We were taken to a park and all given kites.

Fantastic experience - and sight. The picture doesn't do justice to a bright blue sky full of fluttering colourful kites. GREAT!