A day off, McDonalds and snake wine

An early start allowed us to meet the boat in Guilin to take us up the Lijiang river. Although this was low season 4 boats carried about 200 people each and we set off on the 2 Ω hour journey along the river with views of most spectacular countryside.  The water was shallow and occasionally the bottom of the boat touched the riverbed. Usually, the boat travels to Yangshou but due to the water level we stopped early to get a bus for  the final part of the journey. Along the riverbanks there was a spectacular landscape and elegant hills.  Everywhere we looked there was a different scene ë100 miles of Lijiang river, 100 miles art galleryí. During the trip locals on their manmade canoes constructed of bamboo canes came alongside the boat to sells oranges, jade and other local produce. Food was sold to the boat with fresh cooking providing our lunch. Snake wine was offered but refused by all! Along the riverbank women could be seen washing their clothes and men digging for sand. 

On the boat there was a poster stating ëLet hearts be as beautiful as the landscape,  add to the brilliance of Li River with serviceí. Modern technology had even arrived at the riverbank. Traditional tents selling local produce also had computers and printers as well as fax machines.  This was a real highlight of the tour and allowed memorable photo opportunities. 

In Yangshou the hotel where we were originally planning to stay ñ The Paradise Hotel ñ was closed due to a strike by the workers. Pickets were outside and a sign stating ëwe need to work. We need to live. Should be harmonious.í was clearly evident.  

After booking into a local hotel, Yangshou Regency Holiday Hotel, that was very centrally based we had several hours to explore the town.  Local produce, fake Rolex watches, ëPradaí bags and calligraphy stalls were all available. There was an opportunity to have oneís photo taken with a local fisherman with his 2 cormorants as well as his catch of the day for 5 Yuan. 

Concern with regards having excess baggage on the flight home prevented certain purchases but we really did enjoy the shops and market.  MacDonalds ñ open 24 hours ñ and a KFC shop enticed several of the delegates to have some ëfood from homeí.  

After an early supper we had a short taxi drive to see the ëSon et Lumiereí show which was absolutely stunning. About 600 participants put on a most fantastic event with the backdrop of the spurs ñ the rising moon and the river in the foreground. Ideal feng shui scenery. The show was directed by the same director of the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and was equally as impressive.