Author: Kathleen

Posted on

Zhouzhuang Watertown, China

P1010860{On the canal with boat operators who ferry tourists while singing songs}

Zhouzhuang is one of oldest water townships and considered the “Venice” of China. The locale is an hour from Shanghai and southeast of Suzhou. Each of the ancient residential dwellings are well preserved and have accessibility to elegant watery views of the lakes and rivers.

P1010863

P1010859
The customs and traditions of these people have not changed in more than a 1000 years. They have retained a style and pattern of living on these canals, as they did centuries ago.

Two or three generations may live in a home and the families appear extremely private about their personal affairs. They stay very close to the collective and were oblivious to us as tourist.

P1010864{On the canals of Zhouzhuang}

Enjoy the Waterways!!!!!

K

Posted on

Shanghai/ The Silk Road Series


IMG_1745

{Sunrise on Shanghai}

The “Silk Road” is the fabled name historians use to describe the first trade route that connected China with the Mediterranean region in ancient and medieval times, a 4,000-mile network of routes that passed through the entire Asian continent.

Travelers journeyed over mountains or deserts from one oasis to the next carrying silks, spices, gold and textiles in what could be considered at times dangerous or difficult circumstances.


 IMG_1747

While journeying today may seem less harrowing, discovering the cultural aspects of an individual country is still an exciting adventure.

IMG_1763

This is the first in a series of several posts beginning with China and ending in Italy, where I would like to share my take on the cultural corridors between these continents; from street scenes, to timeless architecture, exotic art and delicious food.

IMG_2123

{Dongtai Lu Antique Market}

IMG_2129

This open market is perfect for finding mementos that range from old biscuit tins to Mao ramekins. Bartering is the standard and a great deal of fun.

IMG_2150
{Shanghai at dusk}

Enjoy,

K