Beijing:

So far, it's cold (tomorrow supposed to be rain, 45 deg), crowded, dirty, people are rude and hock loogies all the time. I get stared at even more. I'd hate to see it in summer w heat and crowds of tourists. They have xray machines and metal detectors before I can get on the regular subway, police everywhere. If "the word in Rome" is sex, the word in Beijing is "grey" or "big brother" or "control", "grim"... I went to the Forbidden City and Tienanmen Sq today which was cool. I think i'll go to the great wall tomorrow and then leave. Next stop is Xian, to see terra cotta soldiers.