KATHLEEN HEATH, Cultural Studies major, writes: I have just about finished packing the last of my belongings before we leave today at 2 P.M. From the looks of my mess, you might question whether I was really visiting Shanghai or really just preparing permanent residency. It was only two days ago when I decided that I was looking forward to going home, returning to the familiar and the soft bed, but in a matter of hours I was feeling otherwise--like there was still so much ground to cover here. Our �free� day yesterday really put into perspective the amount of adventures we have the potential to have here. I caught myself commenting during the entirety of the trip that we had never really seen the same sight twice.
A couple of us yesterday returned to Crystal Jade, a stylish restaurant in the �Disney World�-like part of Shanghai, and bemoaned at the fact we would probably never have another meal served family style any time soon. Back to our own individual and excessively large American platters--and out with the sharing and regular proportions. Afterwards four of us went to the Communist Museum, ironically right next to one of the most Westernized parts of Shanghai. As Cultural Studies majors, Liz and I felt we were earning those brownies points most definitely.
Next was an awkward hot-oil massage at the same place we received foot massages. How could we resist, it was only $20 for an hour? Needless to say, it turned into a rather awkward experience. Apparently they did not use robes in these sorts of massages. I just gritted my teeth and bared, slowly mouthing, �It's...an...experience..." to try and remind myself that I would surely be laughing about this when I was older. My expectations for this trip have been far, far exceeded. I couldn�t be more jealous of us.
