Day 32

September 21, 2010 - Xi'an, Shaanxi Provence, China

We were allowed to pick up our new residency visas today, so Jordan and I went out to Chang An to throw ourselves at taxis in hope that one might stop. One did, eventually, and we made our way back to the security bureau, where, in a matter of five minutes, our journey's mission was complete.

Jordan and I split up to find a taxi to take us home: We figured that it might be easier if we were risking our lives separately. I got a taxi and called out to Jordan to come. Then I yelled again. Then again. And all of China turned to look at me. I told the driver in my best Chinese that I would give him 20RMB for the ride if he waited. The ride costs about 11RMB, so it was a tip of around 9RMB (or, $1.45). He waited as I made my way down the corner for half a block yelling for Jordan. Apparently, he was able to get two taxis to stop, but both refused to take him. This, however, put him well out of earshot. We're lucky my taxi guy was so nice, or else we might still be out there.

When we arrived back at the school, I handed the guy a 20RMB note and he tried to give me change. Jordan and I both motioned for him to keep it, but he wasn't getting it. Jordan finally told him that today was an American holiday and the guy smiled strangely and shrugged his shoulders, keeping the change.

I made a video of the taxi ride, but Youtube doesn't work here and I'm not sure if Youku (the Chinese equivalent) works there. On that note, here's a random photo from my trip to the store today:


Garfield. In China, Garfield is an orange lion, apparently, and he's friends with an elephant.

Hayden