Ch 3: Where Everything Is Made

It's been a week since I last stepped foot into an office building. It's strange at first waking up on a Monday morning, thinking that I'd be running late for work then realizing that it's Monday (morning post no job) and the first of many Monday's where I'm awakened by the light of the sun warming up my face rather then the shocking ring of an alarm clock. I have to say I prefer the sun. Vacations are really a mental state as much as a physical state as I had already forgotten what day it was by Wednesday (or was it Thursday?).

Back to China. A little leg work can make the difference between a great time and a great time ruined by bad equipment, ill preperation, and a general air of confusion. Prepping for backpacking through China is no different. Here's a short list of what I'm bringing:

• Personal Papers and Currency (Amex, ID, Passport, Cash Etc.)
• Xerox copy of passport (carried seperately)
  
• Backpack ( A great Northface Terra 50 Liters- If there's anything to go cheap on, your pack should be last on that list)
• Shorts, T-shirts, Slacks, Belt, Socks, and boxers)
• Compass
• Flash light
• Paper Bags (for every occasion you can think of and then some)
• Rubber bands
• First Aid kit & Toleitries
• Sandals (If there's anything to go cheap on, a good pair of walking sandals should be second to last on that list)
• Caps and hat
• Camera
• Bandanas
• Watch (with alarm)
• Post Cards (to give to other travelers along the way)
• Toilet Paper (Travelling in Asia? Never Ever go anywhere without your TP, it's essential as vital as you passport. Even if you are held up remember that passports can be replaced so hold onto that TP.)
  

The basics are there. This list can go on forever but when it comes down to it I have to remember that I'm going to China. If your reading this, look at the five nearest items to you. Turn them over. I bet at least 3 out of the 5 items are enscribed with these three little words, "Made in China". So I won't sweat if I think of something last minute or when I'm already in China because hey I'll be in China, the land where EVERTHING seems to be made these days.