Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Sanya, Hianan Island















About 5 days later Kim and I decided we wanted a change of scenery and headed south to Sanya city on the beach! Kim still had a week left of holiday and we found cheap tickets to Hianan. We stayed near Dadonghai Beach, about a five minute walk to the ocean. They call this area the "Hawaii of the East," which it was beautiful. I have not been to Hawaii, so I can not compare!

The beach and water were very clean, the cleanest I have ever been. The water was cold, but once you got used to it the warm air kept you in for as long as you wanted. We also got to go to another beach just south of Dadonghai. It was even nicer. Neither of the beaches were too crowded. We even had our own battleship off into the distance, so we were safe!!!

Fresh fruit and coffee was also a big plus for the island. We had several papaya's and a coconut. I was really excited about the coconut juice, but it was a little too sour for me. I love coconut milk mixed with Thai food, but straight from the coconut, I can not handle, but fun to experience. Kim looked very cute and happy drinking from the coconut!

Besides some rain and clouds the trip to the beach was very fun and relaxing. We also found a western grill across the street and had some good burgers, nachos, breakfasts, and wraps. The only thing I would change was getting the dates on our flight back to Nanchang mixed up. Luckily they had two seats left, but our special rate was no longer special anymore.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Jiu Hua Shan (9 Flower Mountain)














Kim and I went on a road trip with our friends Weina and Li Chao to see the country side, mountains, and buddhists temples. It was really nice to get away and see some new areas with our friends. Being able to get in a car and go on your own schedule is so nice... I know I take for granted how much freedom I have each day when I can go where ever I want in my truck.

Around Jingdezhen are huge mtns. We have been able to go to Yellow Mtn, which is the largest and most famous mtns in China. Near by are also beautiful mtns with many buddhists temples, around 99! Even though we are Christians, the beauty and auroa around these temples are amazing. I know why they chose these areas now, b/c you completely feel like you are in heaven. The clouds and fog was very thick and at many points it would cover the sites around you.

The temples were all very elaborate and the burning of incense was very abundant. It was very evident b/c you would see the wrappers from the candles and incense all around the mtn. Not good. The smoke helps keep the evil spirits away.

We had very good local food! Salted dried fish was one that we had from many different farmers. The picture of a fish is actual made from tofu, but tastes just like fish. On the mtn you can not buy any meat, since the true buddhists are vegetarians.