08 September 2008

Shenyang Structures














































Had a week off when I first arrived due to the school taking a short break during their summer program. It was a great opportunity to go exploring and get some photos of my new home town. The Mao statue is in the centre of the city and it is massive! The TV tower is very close to where I am staying as is the park with the ferris wheeel. I had trouble getting photos from the ferris wheel as there was mesh on the windows, but it kind of makes for an interesting shot. The statue I standing next to is one of the Qing emporers, there is a set of about 12 of them. The unusual building is in the CBD and is quite impressive. I am sure to have loads more photos to share as I have only scratched the surface of this marvellous city!

Shenyang Sights
















































This new post has been a while coming as I've been settling into life here in Shenyang. Time seems to be rushing by at a fast pace even though life in this north eastern city is fairly sedate. I have to say at the outset I absolutely love this place! The atmosphere is one of community and harmony. I have been staying at the school apartment but should be moving into a one-bedroom apartment next weekend. Work is busy but quite satisfying and I am working with a great bunch of locals and foreigners. Lots of Brits and Americans with a few Aussies aswell. The group shot of some of the aforementioned was taken at an Indian restaurant which serves amazing food! The watermelon seller plies her trade outside my apartment building and the street artist was painting this mural just up the road. The city played host to some Olympic soccer matches so the parks have been cleaned up and Olympic motifs added. The photo of the horse and cart in the city was a clash of old meeting new, lots of similar sights abound. Finally the fire in the street was the night of the Ghost Festival. People burn fake money either to accommodate their ancestors in the after life or appease the spirits, never did get a clear answer as to why. I am keeping well, had a cold for a week or so but nothing serious. I've started learning Mandarin at long last. My school provides lessons free so it's a great opportunity. I hope to have lots more photos and stories to share soon. Till next time, God bless!

Beiling Park, Shenyang













Went for a stroll around this park which houses the tomb of one of the original Qing dynasty emporers. I was amused by the sign, an unfortunate coupling of words, as is typical here in China!

Olympic Soccer 2008















My new school secured tickets to the Olympic soccer matches held here in Shenyang. I got to watch Holland play Japan with the Dutch winning 1-0!