So it looks like I am going to Beijing. I didn't want to say anything because I was a tad worried about the visa situation. But the travel agent told us last week that everything had gone well and the visa was ready for pick-up on February 10.
Needless to say, I am over the moon at this bit of blessing. I can now, finally, maniacally plan this trip down to the very last detail. With just three days in this sprawling capital, I would feel uncomfortable leaving anything to chance.
Which is not to say I won't welcome surprises or even setbacks along the way. I expect there will be some, but at least I'll know my way around or through it.
I've made a 3-day Beijing itinerary, which I thought was pretty nifty, but then I went online today, saw this very comprehensive site and realized what an amateur of a trip planner I actually am.
So today, the itinerary will have to be beefed up and trimmed down at the same time.
I am enjoying this so much, I'll have to find a way to make a living out of this.
