3.24.16 and 3.25.16
We all met at MFS at 5:00am to catch the bus to the airport. Upon arrival we unloaded the bus and proceeded to check our bags. We then walked through security and to our gate. With 2 hours until departure we all split up to find food. After breakfast we all boarded the plane and were off to Chicago. After the uneventful flight the plane landed. We then explored the Chicago airport during our 3 hour layover and met back at our gate. We went through document check and proceeded to board the plane.
Once the crew members opened the doors to let everyone board the plane, only five of us from MFS were able to make it onto the plane before the crew members stopped letting people on due to a water leak. We waited almost an hour before everyone else could board. Eventually, the plane took off for the long awaited trip to Beijing. After several naps, many movies, and lots of snacks, we landed in Beijing International Airport. There we waited another hour to go through immigration check. Although the wait was long, we were able to pass the time with pictures and games. Finally, we boarded the bus to drive us to the hotel. We met Willy and Liu Li, our Global Works leaders, and learned a bit more about our surroundings. We arrived at the Ming Courtyard, where the atmosphere was welcoming. We settled into our rooms, then left for the restaurant. There we were served a variety of delicious hand cut noodles and fried rice. The food was great, but we all were too tired to fully enjoy it. We ended our day with some much needed rest and downtime before lights out. We are all looking forward to tomorrow visiting the forbidden city and taking lots of photos!
Spencer and Whitney