The International Affairs Office of the Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences sponsored a visit for international faculty to the seaside at Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan from 9 to 10 July, 2011. It was an very relaxing post-semester vacation in the scenic Hebei province resort towns.
Departing from Beijing on a private coach, the few hours to the coast were spent talking with one another about the past year's teaching. Upon arrival in Shanhaiguan, a seafood lunch was served, featuring such local marine delicacies, as fresh vegetables, clams, mantis shrimp and fish. Following lunch, the group entered the historic area of the Great Wall at Shanhaiguan. A group portrait was taken underneath the well-known sign "First Pass Under Heaven". The group then strolled along the top of the Great Wall, enjoying the surrounding urban scenery, local performers and the timeless elegance of the Great Wall.
The international instructor's had heard that the Great Wall terminates in the ocean at Shanhaiguan, so they took a short drive to that location. The view of the Bohai Sea waves breaking on the ancient gray stones of the Great Wall made a deep impression on all of the international instructors. They ambled down the beach to the Sea Goddess Temple, which is built in the ocean, accessible by a small bridge. The ocean breezes, sunny skies and mild temperatures made it an afternoon to remember.
That evening they checked into a hotel near the beach in Beidaihe. The group had a superb dinner of fresh seafood in a cheerful restaurant. The dishes were flavorsome and the atmosphere was convivial. Following dinner, although the sun was down, most international instructors went to the beach which was crowded with families enjoying night swims. Walking along the beach, the half moon shining on the sea surface gave the night a dreamy ambience.
Sunday began with walks in the surrounding area and to the beach, where several international instructors went swimming. The holiday atmosphere in Beidaihe was great fun for all, as a pleasant weekend getaway from busy lives in Beijing. The international instructors then shared a final lunch together, with local specialties served.
During the drive back to Beijing, all agreed that it had been a wonderful way to end the 2010-2011 academic year. The international instructors now know firsthand why Beidaihe has long been a favored summer resort for Chinese families.
