We left the hotel shortly after 7:30 and we didn’t arrive at the Great Wall until soon after 10 a.m.  We spent most of that time sitting in traffic that simply wasn’t moving.  At 11:50 we were back on the bus waiting and waiting to get out of the parking lot.  One of our tour guides, Ray, finally got off the bus and stood in front of the oncoming traffic so our bus could get on the road to lead us back to the highway.

We then visited the Jade Factory where we saw how the jade is carved and shaped and we also ate lunch at a restaurant that is located there.

Our next stop was the Olympic Park.  We were able to visit inside the Water Cube where we saw Michael Phelps win so many gold metals.  Next was the Kung Fu Tea House where we sampled various flavors of teas that are supposed to cure us of many things.  I have never seen anyone sample as much tea as Kyle Murphy.

After a quick dinner, we arrived at a local theater for an acrobatic show.  We were thrilled and amazed at the talent of the performers.  Once the show ended we made our way back to the hotel.

Oh!  Before I forget, we did get our luggage back so now we can sleep and have fresh clothes for tomorrow.

It was a rigorous day.