I arranged to pick up Rachel after her AP Computer Science Exam, to spend the afternoon together. We took the subway to a shopping area downtown. To both of our delight, we found a really nice dress for Rachel’s upcoming graduation. This is saying a lot, because finding just the right dress in China is not always easy. Afterwards we took a ride in a small 3-wheeled taxi-type vehicle over to a the historic Astor Hotel. Built in 1863, this hotel has a rich history as a prime venue for diplomatic activity in Tianjin. The Astor offers English Afternoon Tea which is one of Rachel’s favorite outings. We enjoyed tea and had a nice time planning for the busy weeks to come.

Sweet old gentleman who drove us in his 3-wheeled “taxi”

Historic Catholic church located at the end of the walking shopping street called Bin Jiang Dao.