Today is the eve of the Chinese New Year. The year of Dragon.
For me, the eve of a lunar new year also means a routine/traditional itinerary: setting out the fireworks, watching the New Year Gala TV show, and enjoying the hand-made dumplings at the mid-night.
Beijing is back to its true and more importantly, normal, nature: a bit chilly, bright sunny day, clean street, and occasionally firecrackers here and there (fireworks are not allowed until 5:30PM today, but people always want to venture out for that forbidden fun).
The Grand Hyatt feels a lot empty as well. Last night the gym and the pool are nearly empty. The Red Moon, our favorite bar, are closed from January 22 through 25, so we went for a drink again last night.
The bar had at most three or four guests at the time, with a live band performing some new age songs with Chinese traditional music instruments. Peacefully calm and pleasant, just exactly what I was looking for.
This morning the street is even more deserted. Finally a time to breathe the fresh air and enjoy the view of this ancient and grand city.
