No Dice China

Just a quick update for people. In case you've been following the news about massive protests in the streets of Bangkok over the current regime, there's no need to worry. They've been peaceful thus far, and Jennie and I are in the north, heading into Laos in a few days anyway.

Also, the Chinese government has decided to close up shop for the Olympics, at least at this time. They are actively denying foreigners travel visas, including to people with tickets for the Olympic events, and CEOs wishing to visit their factories in the Southern provinces. They've also kicked out expat workers, many who have been in China for several years already. Why? Namely the fear of more protests over the Tibet issue from Western tourists, which could undermine China's glorious "coming out party". China seems to believe that to come out to the rest of the world, they should also shut people out.

The recent tragic events in the Sichuan province, culminated with the flooding in Southern China, are making things even more difficult for travellers, especially when seeking a visa outside one's country. So, unfortunately Jennie and I will no longer be going to China for our last month of the trip. We have a pretty cool alternative: we'll be hitting up Malaysia, both the peninsula and Borneo for the better part of our last month, and try to hit up Singapore as well, before heading to Hong Kong for our trip back home. Hope this relieves any worries anyone may of had.

Lastly, I won't be posting for the next couple of weeks as the internet connections here are way too slow, and I suspect they'll be worse in Laos. Look for some updates in the beginning on July! Hope all is well with you all.

ZA