Day 14 (16-3-2009) - Yellow Crane Tower

Today’s weather was probably the closest to Singapore’s that I’ve ever experienced here in China. It made me feel very comfortable, naturally. First of all, the sun was up and at some point, it seemed as if it was shining down on us at full force. There’s also a different feeling to the wind. Days ago the wind always brought with it and annoying cold chill that would kill us every time. Today, it was more of a warm and nicer feeling.

The main highlight of today was our visit to the Yellow Crane Tower. Contrary to what we all thought, the tower is actually quite close to our area. I have to say, that I was a little bit disappointed when I learned that the tower was actually reconstructed a few times through history. I thought it would have been much nicer if we were visiting an untouched ancient/historical site. But I also figured an untouched ancient tower could also be the place I spend the last moments of my life in.

I think the Yellow Crane Tower and its surrounding parks are all beautiful. It’s the kind of place whereby you just can’t stop taking photos in. Most important was being at the top floor of the tower and looking down on the great scenery of the city of Wuhan, which I realise, is actually rather modern.

I got myself a pendant which has my name carved in Chinese characters. “Ah Du Ah Zhi”, or so they say. The best thing is, it seems like it has already brought me good luck. Just as we arrived back in campus, Dr Zhu told us that we might need to write our names in Chinese characters to fill up a certain form. I for one would know how to do that.

I also got a souvenir for my uncle whose family sent me to the airport the day I departed. I hope they like my taste.

Some people were complaining that the $25 we spent at a restaurant just now was not worth the food. I would somehow agree to that but only because there was no food for me that was completely Halal, except for the “pan cake” that they served last. So throughout the whole lunch, the only servings I ate, was rice, broccoli and prawn; kind of plain but I managed to fill my stomach so I’m not complaining.

Another thing that I have noticed about life in Huazhong Normal University is that the night life is really very lively. The main reason is because most students live in campus and so they are still around at night. But the more important thing, is that they take the initiative to be out at night and engage in activities, rather than just call it a day. I think that even if Singaporean students live in campus, night life would not be as entertaining as what it is here. Today I saw indoor skating, students playing table-tennis, students exercising at the gym, and much more, all at night. If they’re not doing any of this, they will be at any free room and be studying. I guess students here are very proactive.

Talk about being proactive, I think it’s really time for me to kick it up a bit and start to get out of my room more.