First day in Beijing.

Landed on time at 7:45am with Air France. Did you know they serve champagne in economy? Great flight and not bad food either, when compared to other airlines.

It was great to see Jodie again, and after lunch we spent some time exploring while enjoying several hours wandering around Ritan Park, to the east of the city.

It's definitely a place for Beijingers to while away a Saturday afternoon. Just in case the government were worried about obesity creeping in as citizens adopt new western tastes, a measure in place appears to be the introduction of 'adult playgrounds'. Not too concerned about sporting the latest lycra, locals are happy to get stuck in wearing their usual blouse and slacks. Everything is there from cross trainers to bench pressing machines. All in bright friendly colours. The lady here was doing a 'wiggling' thing on this contraption, and despite her expression, she seemed perfectly happy having her photograph taken.