China Day 23

We left the ship after breakfast and took a bus to visit the three gorges dam project - about an hours drive away. Masses of tourists, very tight military-based security but what an eye-opener. The dam wall is over 2000 metres long and almost 200 metres high so is a very impressive sight. On either side of the base are hydro power stations with 13 turbines which produce upwards of 85 billion kilowatt-hours per year - pretty impressive.

We stopped at a number of viewing points to also see the huge lock system - 5 double capacity locks for each direction working in tandem. They also have a ship lifter for smaller ships which lift the ship as well as the container and water. Altogether an incredible example of engineering, completed in 2009. China just keeps on impressing with the size and success of its projects.

Off then to catch our train to Shanghai - a trip of 1200km which we completed in 6 hours starting and arriving on time to the minute!!!

Another travel hitch - Shanghai station has 4 exits but the travel agency neglected tell us which one to go to to meet our guide! Tried to ring but no answer so followed the largest crowd but no one there. To add to the interest, there is a typhoon expected here tonight/tomorrow so it was raining steadily.  The guide eventually found us so a half hour drive got us to the Holiday Inn next to the river (could be interesting if the typhoon hits) - had to get out in the rain to grab a banana and yoghurt for dinner!

We'll have a chat with the guide in the morning when we know better what the weather is doing - might be hunkered down in the hotel yet. We'll let you know!