Hi Nigel,

Is China far enough??  I am six weeks into a three month trip to the Peoples Republic of China. I am teaching Chinese Marine Engineers at the Maritime University in the north eastern Chinese city of Dalian. I work three hours a day, mornings, Monday to Friday. I have two more weeks work and then off for a weeks holiday in Hangzhou (reputed to be the most beautiful city in China) at the company`s expense. This will be followed by a three week Grand Tour of China,taking in Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Wuhan, Chongqing, Yangtse river cruise, Great Wall, Terracota Warriors etc. etc. before coming home.

 

You would not believe the motorcycles out here! They are almost all big cruiser style, very much like Viragos (although actually called `Verugga`) There must be a capacity limit as all these great big bikes have tiny little engines. The riders seem to spend very little time actually riding the bikes, but sit around in groups of a dozen or so posing. I`d like to have a proper conversation with them but NOBODY here speaks English and my Chinese is limited to say the least. I`ll try to get some photos to bring home, as all their  bikes have big crocheted multi-coloured seat covers with long tassles. 

 

I`m glad to hear the sun is shining back at home and hope you get some nice rides in.  Look forward to joining you all in June. I`m glad I am on the internet here so I can follow your news....... and would would appreciate an e-mail from any others in the group who may have the time to spare.

 

If you see my neighbour Barry ( BMW ) could you ask him to e-mail me as I`ve lost his e-mail address. 

 

Many thanks.

 

Bye for now,  Arthur.