I was going to say a little more about Chengdu where this Mao statue is located, but I have a train to go and catch in a few minutes.
After ~48 hours, that train which is the highest commercial rail service in the world will arrive in Lhasa, Tibet, elevation ~4,000 meters where our government-appointed guide/babysitter will pick us up. Incidentally, you need to sign a disclaimer promising you’re not a political activist before they hand over your Tibet permit.
About a week later we will leave Tibet and cross the border into Nepal, but not before stopping a night at Everest Base Camp. The roof of the world! Words cannot describe my excitement.
Anyway, watch this space, I have a train to catch!
Where is Yvette? 