The Far West: nineteen days in China by Carrie King

better exchange rate at hotel desks with our travelers' checks than our cash, but both roughly 8 yuan to the dollar. Also, we would be encountering a variety of shopping situations, including the obligatory government-run "friendship stores" - these used to be the only places foreigners were allowed to shop, but that is no longer true. These days, they're simply more expensive. Usually in non-government shops, you bargain. I'd been prepped ahead of time on bargaining by my ex-roommate whom I would see in Hong Kong.

be mostly park, and small complex that is now restaurant. lots of people selling things. fans and the clapper pandas.

on to the temple of heaven, more obviously a temple. even MORE people selling things. david's ten silk ties, and lu's attempt to buy stamps.