mango water ice (tourist in town)

Beijing smells like garlic and sweat, Philadelphia smells like old books that have been kept in a cool cellar with a little moisture and peppermint. If that makes sense.

16 days in the "abroad" and the Beijinger in me has manifested itself several times. It's interesting that I compare Philadelphia to Beijing with a huge scowl on my face.

 

From the train station to the restaurant (you all know my fondness for food) - I am disappointed!!!!!!!!!
After spending the first 7 days functioning in Beijing time, I guess I am finally ready to leave my days in Beijing behind (RIP BJ). Introducing the new me, the "Phillian" as someone wrote on my Instagram 😂.

Now back to the days I actually spent not sleeping, watching movies or listening to an audio book. I managed to mix up the bus stop and the metro entrance, got lectured on tipping culture (story for another day),

 attended the department's summer party (I am not sure if it should even be called a party, but the food was good), tried the famous Cheesesteaks, 

ate ice water opposite City Hall, stood in the rain outside the Art Museum and visited the Academy of Natural Sciences.

All in my first 16 days!!! Oh, and I had a very handsome tour guide with mesmerizing blue eye (I think they are gray though) whose legs are probably swollen now.

Dear Dan, on behalf of myself and my ancestors, we give you this award.

That's all besties, this scientist is still a tourist! At least till August.

xoxo

The "Phillian" scientist