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Wendy and I at the Hyatt on the Bund.

Other random thoughts,

Driving is a unique, somewhat life-threatening experience, crossing the street should be an Olympic event and the traffic makes NYC look like a quiet suburb.

People ballroom dance in the park in the morning (before it gets too hot).

I felt very tall and big–especially when I tried on clothing.

I want to learn to speak Mandarin.

Best part of the trip–I have new friends in China.

I could have never survived without the guidance of my friend and classmate Wendy Chen, whose native Mandarin saved me from confused cabdrivers. She explained the nuances of Chinese business culture (bring lots of business cards if you go) and advised on dining (watch out for the chicken claws in the soup.)  She went above and beyond the call of duty to help me in China and was a joy to work with on this global project.

She is back in Taiwan visiting her family now and I miss her very much.