So, before even receiving responses to my inquisitive emails…and knowing
entering would be completely illegal being without a designated tour
group, I have to strike it from the plan. I realized that if I don’t get
an exit stamp on my VISA upon leaving China, I can’t imagine them letting
me back in when they see no proof that I even left the country.
***omit*** but playing the “stupid American” card will not get me out of this one. All
the travelogues I read, people pass through China…not exit and re-enter.
I am blessed with a multiple entry, year long work VISA…presently,
Americans are lucky to get much more than a 60 day single entry.
And with this unfortunate realization – I will attempt to travel through
Mongolia – but once at the Russian border, there is a train that will take
me east to the Mongolian/Russian/China border. I know nothing of Russia
or the language…I know they like vodka.
This is disappointing, but I feel comfortable with this…China. I know
enough of the language, customs, and just what to expect of the general
population. And it helps having local friends here in Shanghai, that have
family in cities all over this country. Everyone I meet here, shows a lot
of encouragement and tell me “oh, you will have to visit my hometown.”
I’ll have the revised route in a couple of days.
Eleanor Moseman
Yen Ai Lun