No destination in mind

we've been doing plenty of group excursion, dozens of students running amok in pseudo touristy areas, so i'm branching off this weekend and going on a mission.  My buddy Reid and I are getting on some sort of train, and charge out to a random destination.  figure it can't be too bad whatever we do, since a quart of beer costs $0.25.  seriously it is cheaper than water - people say that beer is more plentiful than water in isla vista but i've never been seriously offered beer for breakfast.  we have found, however, that it is the most effective way to kill off excess germs that are hanging out in the food - a good quart of Yang jing pijiu.  still hope to one day be able to order food...  or at least know what we order.  it is usully no worries though, a solid dinner will be $1.50 per person....  and there's a tsan guanr selling food every 100 feet in beijing  So it is not a problem to remain stuffed and inebriated in constant hedonism around here - so much for spiritual enlightenment we seek to gain from Eastern wisdom. 

We're going to head out on Friday, with no particular destination in mind; we'll let the train schedules make the decision for us. in search of a less touristy destination, a nice hike with pretty views, maybe a low key temple in a valley, some chinese folks to talk to. it's funny this last weekend i'd go to these places with my friends, and instead of actually making it to the 'sightseeing' area, we'd get stuck somewhere along the line hanging out with people, or taking in the surroundings. not so important to see the particular 'attractions' anymore, talking to a 5 year old is enough (if not more interesting!!!)

don't think i've said much about my living situation - we basically live in a hotel, very much pampered, bathrooms in each room, hot water for tea down the hall. my roommate and I are a very good match, have made our room extremely livable, plants and tapestries and such. he's super hard working student but will go out and party/dance, do random things. it's a good balance.

already starting to look for a place to live in fall though, as prices range from $100-$500 a month depending on whether you get a 'legal' place or not. 'Legal' being government approved housing for foreigners, so the landlords jack up the price It seems to me that about half the foreigners live in illegal housing, and half don't, but it is a matter i am looking into.