myChinaBlog

28 May 2008

Hangzhou: West Lake

Posted by Reggie under: 4. Hangzhou; 0. Home China Page .

On Saturday morning, we arrived at Hangzhou via a 3 hour flight. This was an opportunity to smooth out the calluses we earned in Yangshuo. This was truly a “City of Heaven.” There were 2 distinct rings around the lake. The first dating back to 221 BC which included palaces, pagodas and temples. The second ring was a more modern haven denoted by Starbucks, Armani, Ferrari, Hermes and Gucci.

The Hyatt was equally decadent. It met my expectations of a 5-star establishment. Our rooms were tastefully furnished. The bathroom was equipped with both a glass enclosed shower and a sizeable soaking tub. (It always seems more difficult when you have choices!)

Earlier on the trip, I came to realize that one of Andrew and Zach’s favorite rituals was surveying the bathroom amenities. In fact, Zach and Andrew seemed very satisfied after they ~~raped and pillaged~~ reviewed the offerings provided by the “spoils” box. This scene was akin to having warriors emerging victoriously from battle. Too cute, guys! [AC: I don’t know what he’s talking about.]

Next, we attended a champagne brunch at the Hyatt Café. The food was impressive and fresh. It offered western and eastern delicacies (sushi, lamb, steak, dumplings, noodle soup and dessert). The chefs were more than happy to cook for us at their respective stations.

After shamelessly engorging ourselves, we strolled around Westlake. The weather was 85 F and very humid. The lake was situated in a row of hills wrapped in green forest. Our four hour excursion was relaxing. Many young couples get away to

Westlake, and to this end, it was easy to appreciate the romance in the lake air.There were two minor disappointments later that night. Zach purchased a bottle of clear alcohol anticipating a vodka-like liquor-unfortunately, it was akin to drinking Glade air freshener. Our second disappointment occurred when we visited the only gay bar in the area. Inside, we found 3 young men singing karaoke. There were more bartenders than patrons at the establishment. Luckily however, the night was marked by a well-deserved sleep in our comfortable beds.

On our second day here, we purchased a ferry ticket to explore the islands and inner lakes within Westlake. We could only begin to appreciate the beauty and sanctity that Marco Polo witnessed centuries before. The scenic views provided for a plethora of opportunity for landscape photography.

After 3 hours, my desire to sightsee abated. So I left my Chinateers to return to the hotel spa and rejuvenate for the next leg of the trip. The hotel offered me a memorable 1.5 hour foot massage and pedicure. This was such a perfect combination for pampering oneself in nature and shopping. Perhaps this was one degree short of heaven.

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