July 12 -- Xian

We arrive in Xian in the morning and, in my case, due to the miracle of Ambien, well rested. What a relief. The buildings are tasteful, the streets have trees and, here and there, one can see a bird. In spite of the heat and the persistent haze, after Beijing, Xian glows like a gem. On the first day we sightsee and visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Jen and I retreat to a cafe in the shadow of the pagoda and sip cold drinks. I look up though the umbrellas and I see the pagoda in a different light.























The old city wall provides an escape from city traffic, a place recreation and a good vantage point from which to view a pleasant city. Two of the above pictures, as well as the one below were taken, on the city wall.