Holiday

Today is my first break since coming to Qingdao. Within the first hour of arriving in Qingdao, they put me right to work, so I haven't had much of a rest. All I can say is that I am very happy to have a break today.

Thankfully I made a friend here who as taken the time to help me buy a prepaid cellphone card and to show me around Qingdao. Prepaid cellphones operate much differently here than in the States. I bought a travel SIM card that allows me to have my own number from which to send and receive calls and text messages. I just slip the card inside my cellphone and I'm instantly ready to go. I paid $9 for a thirty day card and since text messages are dirt cheep, it will be all I need for the duration of my stay in China.

I was also able to go to the beach today. It was beautiful! Qingdao has a quaint prominade and pier that extends into the bay (very touristy and crowded). The sun and ocean breeze was all I needed to made me want to live in Qingdao permanantly. It kind of reminds me of San Diego, but without the beautiful white beach sand. I hear Qingdao has about six beaches, so I'll have to update on how they are and if they permit swimming.