Started packing after 08:00 and we left the apartment at 09:30. Got a taxi to Chengdu airport, checked in the bags and went through security. We had time so Penny looked at some shops and was totally delighted to find a shop that sold Panda T Shirts, she chose one but I spotted an issue with it so got it changed. Made our way to the gate and then on to the bus which took us to the plane. We were first off and got on the plane and we departed 15 minutes late, which is a vast improvement on our other 2 flights. It was a hour 25 minute flight and we were given a hot meal the service was excellent.
Once we landed waited for the bags to arrive and we made our way to the taxi rank. The drivers were swarming over us like vultures and asking how much. I showed one driver our hotel address and he wanted 150 yuan I quickly told him to fuck right off. A 30 minute ride should be around 60 yuan. I said to the next driver I pay the meter got an okay and then put the bags in with Penny in the back I got in the front and then he wanted more money. I told him straight to his face fuck off and we got out. The other taxi drivers thought this was hilarious, but no meter no ride. Then a taxi guy said meter packed the bags and Penny in the back and me in the front. The first 5 km the driver just followed the white marker of the lane a bit of a concern. It was foggy and signs mentioned it too, then we came up to a a right turn off and the driver was in too minds which does not inspire confidence. Thirty minutes later we arrive at out hotel 62 Yuan was the bill, I now get pissed off when taxi drivers try to rip me off and I rightly tell them so.
Booked into our 5 star hotel as it is Penelope’s birthday today and she deserves to be spoiled. Got checked in and went to our room and 2 single beds, I about turned and done 19 floors to reception and said one bed not 2 and they changed us, we are both happy. Unpacked and we got our cameras and went out to look at the Yangtze River across the road, it was foggy and becoming cooler around 7C, not nice we want sunshine. There is a big shopping center next to our hotel we went up to the top level and the place is full of restaurants. Penny found one we sat down they gave us a paper menu and you tick what you want. Chose a variety of dishes, unfortunately the spring rolls had just run out and Penny did not get her beer, but we got the other dishes they came in dribs and drabs. Found a cake shop and got a portion each and carried on to Walmart came out with some clothes for Penny and some snacks. Back in the hotel room unpacked the shopping and chill time. The weather is not good for the next week which is unfortunate, we were hoping for some sunshine.
Maurice's Travel 