Xi’an itself is an interesting city. Much like several other European cities there’s a well-maintained city wall that surrounds it. You can, apparently, take a walking tour atop it, and walk the perimeter of the inner-city — fourteen kilometers, taking over four hours — but, level as it is, I have no desires to put myself in direct sunlight, without shade for four hours, in this heat.

I’ve grown a bit tired of the standard Chines cuisine, so yesterday I decided to hit up the Muslim quarter for some good eats and some trinket shopping. A lot of fun, and the food was excellent. I’ve missed a good kabob, and the spicy lamb I had was absolutely amazing. The Islamic breads (I believe they’re a prayer cake of some sort) also seems to be the only non-sweet bread in China. It’s been a month, and I love bread, so I couldn’t help myself.

Today, I’ve visited the Terracotta Warriors and I’d have to say that I was more amazed at the size of what hasn’t yet been excavated, than by what has been. When I upload all my photos in a couple days you too will see what I’m talking about. On television, I’ve seen the rows upon rows of soldiers, and wondered at the work that was put into making them… but never considered the work that continues today to uncover them.

The shear size of the building that houses Site I was massive and awe inspiring. It’s been over thirty years since their discovery, and I’d venture a guess at less than 30% of it being completely excavated. I can’t imagine that they are actually going to continue with the work, I’d have given up by now. They certainly won’t be finished in my lifetime unless they either speed the process, or I grow to a very old age!

Tomorrow, I rest and read my book, while I wait for my long trek south toward Hong Kong for my really long trip home. I can’t wait to start school again.