So if you saw that I alluded to going to China, and are wondering if I am actually going… the answer is YES! Though I’ve known for quite some time, I guess you could say that it hasn’t really sunk in yet. I haven’t even thought about what I’ll pack and I’ll probably pack on Friday afternoon before my Friday night flight. I am going for 2 weeks. WOW - seems like forever to be away from work, but in the end, I won’t be missing work. Let’s be honest.

My mom and step-dad Tom go every year to check on their factories for their company, Totally Bamboo. Just to make sure things are running smoothly, meet with clients and also check out new factories. I’ve never been east of Europe and they’ve wanted to make this a family trip for quite sometime, so this was the perfect year. My younger cousin, Megan is studying in Shanghai for the fall, so she’s there now. All in all, There are 9 of us going there (Me, mom & Tom, brother David, Aunty Patsy / Uncle Frank, Aunty Maggy / Uncle Greg, cousin Jay.) With Megan, that makes 10. We have a very tight schedule, with all the sightseeing and favtory-visiting, however I am hoping I can squeeze some shopping in. Actually, don’t be ridiculous, Lindsey - I WILL squeeze A LOT of shopping in. My itinerary is below… if anyone has any tips on what to do or things that I should see, email me! I have never been and am super excited, but also I know I’ll be overwhelmed by the culture, people and FOOD!

Sat Oct 9 – Leave LAX

Sun Oct 10 – Arrive in Shanghai

Mon Oct 11

Tues Oct 12 – Drive to Anji

Wed Oct 13 – Drive back to Shanghai

Thurs Oct 14 – Expo in Shanghai

Fri Oct 15 – Shanghai for the day (plan on seeing Yu Yuan Garden, Yu Yuan Bazzar, Jade Buddha, Temple), then Overnight train to Beijing

Sat Oct 16

Sun Oct 17 

Mon Oct 18 – Fly to Guangzhou

Tues Oct 19 - Fly to Vietnam until Oct 25

And PS. Andrew isn’t coming with me, so don’t try to break into my apt - he will be there. Sad that I’m missing his bday on Oct 15th! Also missing my dad’s bday on Oct 21st.