Walking the streets of old and modern Shanghai - Part 2 of 2

Today was another day of professional programs ending with a visit with the US Consulate at Shanghai Centre. We had time for Starbucks yet again here at Shanghai Centre, and that fresh cup of coffee was appreciated at the end of this long day.

Better yet, at the end of the day, all were treated to a Chinese foot massage. Except for Rodney, he wanted a full body massage. One other exception was me. Rodney had plenty of company to accompany him to the massage parlor located at a downtown hotel, company such as Wayne, Helen and Wendy. I decided it was time to take a bit of a break from it all, even if just for an hour or so, a time to take a walk along the downtown streets of Shanghai. I found this comfortable and relaxing. There were lots of people around, but all seemed unconcerned about this foreign individual walking down their street. As I walked by small shops, restaurants and other facilities that you might find in any downtown, if anything, friendly faces would want to invite me in to sample their wares. But I was content to have this time to myself for walking and contemplating this memorable journey through China, a quiet, anonymous person among the bustling streets and people of Shanghai. I felt safe and comfortable in this downtown.

In the evening, we found ourselves having dinner on our own. Wayne wanted to be on his own for dinner. Rodney and I decided on room service. It was long enough ago that I don’t recall what I ate. I do recall that it was nice to come to our hotel at the end of the day and have dinner come to our room. It was also a time for Rodney and me to get to know each other just a little bit better and ponder the success of our journey.