Last days at Beijing

Been a while since my last post! The last few weeks have been really good in terms of learning and progressing in my Chinese (at least I think). Whilst I'm not fluent by any means, I can semi understand what people are saying if they aren't speaking too fast and my vocabulary, grammar and sentence construction has improved to the point. I think the thing which sorta motivates me is that many of my 'zhongguoren' friends are telling my Chinese is 'tigao' (improving).

It's getting to a semi practical level. I can order food at a restaurant, read some chinese menus, go to a post office and send a package to Australia, talk to and direct taxi drivers, negotiate and bargain at markets, etc. Although anything that's a bit deeper and more meaningful is a much bigger challenge.

Just been preparing to leave Beijing and go to Shanghai (this Sunday). Should be a fun time and hopefully will be able to make the most of the rest of the time I have left overseas. The plan at the moment is to go to Suzhou and Hangzhao, as well as stay a few days to check out the humongous metropolis that is Shanghai.

Finally went to BICF (Beijing International Christian Fellowship - church in other words) the other day and it was awesome to be able to go after 7 weeks of no church or fellowship. Met some cool people and had lunch with a few huarens (foreign chinese) who are working in Beijing. Was interesting and I guess a litle encouraging to hear their stories and perspectives about working in Beijing. I think they managed to plant little seeds in my head which might grow enough to convince me to look for a few years of work in Beijing.

Also finally starting to adapt to the cold weather, it's all good now!

Belated Happy Australia Day yo!