I once was under the impression that seeing something in a picture was the same thing as being in that place. As a result, I never saw the need to travel to discover anything. I was happy at home with my books and internet connection. The world was mine to discover through the text of a Wikipedia page.
I pictured the Great Wall in my mind’s eye. The rough cobblestone, worn away by thousands of years of attack and tourism. It was huge in my imagination’s setting, as big as a barn at every angle but not nearly as straight. It wove like a cobra through the mountaintops, each outpost standing like the rearing of the snake’s head. It stood proud, protruding from the earth, the contrast of its tan stones demanding to be seen against the plush evergreen background. In this flight of fantasy, the surrounding mountain peaks were covered in snow and the sky was the beautiful autumn overcast that I knew so well from back home.
As we neared the tour site, it became apparent to me just how wrong my preconceptions were. First, the Great Wall only dotted the landscape in short increments, and cell towers stuck up out of it like frizzy hair on a sleeping giant. The slope of the wall must have been somewhere around 65 degrees. I literally felt like I was climbing the mountain the whole darn thing was built on.
In addition to the wall being especially steep, it was also incredibly hot outside. 105 degrees Fahrenheit sun beat down on us. I was so glad to have my water bottle and thankful that I had thought to apply sunscreen liberally like the packing list had suggested.
As we continued the climb, we passed graffiti in Chinese characters. Carvings in all colors coated the cobblestone so heavily that barely any of the original grey emerged. I passed my hands over some of the engravings. It was so sad to think that this building, this beautiful monument that is the mark of China should be defaced in such a selfish way. I could read a few of the characters and most of the things written were names and years of when people had been there.
On an especially steep bit of the wall, my dad and I found ourselves beholding a Chinese woman in a pencil skirt and heels attempting to move a baby carriage down the wall while her husband one-armed their infant child. Our reaction to this was not unlike any regular American tourist’s – we took pictures. Needless to say, everyone in the area gave the couple a wide berth as they attempted to work themselves out of the mess they found themselves in. As some people passed by without even giving the scene a second look, I realized my new reality again: it must be a regular day on the Great Wall.
My preconceived notion of China can be found crumpled up on the steps of the Great Wall. I learned that imagination cannot tell a story to its completion. The mind will only let one generate that which one has seen, heard, felt, or experienced in the past. But, just because things aren’t all that they’re made out to be, doesn’t mean they can’t be amazing in other ways. In fact, my imagination set me up for opportunity. Taking the chance to travel to China and see The Great Wall of China live and in person made me a believer in my dreams.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
0 Replies to “Destination: Great Wall of China”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
The content here is well-researched and very informative, making it a valuable read. This site continues to be a great source of useful and engaging articles.
This blog does a great job of highlighting the rich Black history in St. Augustine. It’s informative and well-structured, making it easy to follow the timeline of events. The details about Fort Mose and the Civil Rights Movement are especially powerful. A must-read for anyone interested in history and culture!
These holiday light displays look absolutely magical! I’m especially drawn to the ‘Las Noches de Las Luminarias’ in Phoenix with all those glowing cacti and lanterns – what a unique and beautiful way to celebrate the season. I also love the idea of the Enchanted Forest in Pine Mountain with its millions of lights. It’s amazing how many incredible places there are to enjoy the festive spirit! I’ll definitely be adding a few of these to my holiday bucket list. Happy holidays to all!
I did a fall road trip through New England, and having a Zetexa eSIM was a lifesaver—no dropped signals, even in remote areas! It made navigating scenic routes so much easier. What’s your favorite fall foliage spot?
Hi, just wanted to say, I enjoyed this post. It was practical.
Keep on posting!
Very nice post. I definitely love this website.
Keep it up!
I must thank you for the efforts you have put in writing this blog.
I really hope to view the same high-grade blog posts by you in the future as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own site now 😉
Just wish to say your article is as astonishing. The clarity in your post is simply spectacular and i can assume you are an expert on this subject. Well with your permission allow me to grab your RSS feed to keep updated with forthcoming post. Thanks a million and please keep up the enjoyable work.
I appreciate, cause I found exactly what I was looking for. You’ve ended my 4 day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye
Heya i am for the first time here. I found this board and I find It really useful & it helped me out a lot.
I hope to give something back and help others like you aided me.
I really like what you guys are up too. This kind of clever work and reporting! Keep up the very good works guys I’ve you guys to blogroll.
For most recent information you have to pay a quick visit world wide web and on web I found this web site as a best website for latest updates. https://www.traillink.com/stateactivity/nv-hiking-trails/
thank you for sharing with us
Fantastic blog!
We offer pick up at Washougal port and drop off at Portland Airport, with a private tour of the city to fill your time until your flight! See our website for more information.
https://www.peaktoursandtransit.com/americancruiselines
Yourr style is really unique compared to other folks I have read stuff from. Many thanks for posting when you’ve got the opportunity, Guess I will just bookmark this site.
Starting the New Year with such vibrant celebrations sounds like a fantastic idea! This guide offers great inspiration for planning a memorable First Night. For anyone looking to experience similar festivities abroad or even within India, the Best Travel Agency in India can make your travel dreams come true. Cheers to a year full of exciting journeys!
Nice i really enjoyed reading your blogs. Keep on posting. Thanks
Would you like this New Year to be the year you let go of your hurtful past? Make the resolution to make the change to become your Best Self.
I am impressed with this website , really I am a fan.
This excellent website truly has all of the information I wanted about this subject and didn’t know who to ask.
Travel Tuesday is such a great opportunity for families to lock in incredible vacation deals! The Caribbean all-inclusive offers and luxury cruises caught my eye this year. For anyone planning trips in 2025, now’s the time to grab those discounts. I’ve found that setting up airfare alerts and exploring flexible travel tools can help extend the savings even further. What’s your favorite way to find hidden travel deals?
Bokeo is truly a captivating delight located in Thailand!
The blend of unspoiled nature, rich culture, and serene landscapes provide an unforgettable trip.
From hidden waterfalls to genuine experiences, every
minute in Bokeo will feel like a voyage of discovery.
You must visit Bokeo if you are looking for authentic Thai appeal and
undiscovered adventure!
ADMIN NOTE: The province of Bokeo is actually in Northern Laos.
Informative article, exactly what I was looking for.
Excellent article. Keep writing such kind of information on your
site. Im really impressed by your site.
Hey there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I’ll definitely
digg it and in my opinion suggest to my friends.
I’m confident they’ll be benefited from this site.
Great wordpress blog here.. It’s hard to find quality writing like yours these days. I really appreciate people like you! take care
How do family-friendly hotels like the Regency Bar & Grill balance a casual atmosphere with upscale dining experiences? Can such venues successfully cater to both adult tastes and children’s preferences without compromising on quality?”,
I have been exploring for a bit for any high quality articles or blog posts on this sort of area . Exploring in Yahoo I eventually stumbled upon this site. Studying this info So i?¦m glad to convey that I have a very just right uncanny feeling I discovered exactly what I needed. I so much unquestionably will make certain to do not fail to remember this web site and give it a glance on a continuing basis.
I really appreciate this post. I have been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thx again!
Pretty great post. I simply stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say that I’ve really enjoyed surfing around your weblog posts. In any case I will be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write once more soon!
I’ve been really impressed
It’s actually a cool and helpful piece of info. I am happy that you simply shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
Is it possible for a hotel to truly cater to both adults and children without compromising on the dining experience? How can establishments like the Regency Bar & Grill balance sophisticated culinary offerings with kid-friendly options, and do you think this duality enhances or detracts from the overall atmosphere?
What unique dining experiences can families expect at hotels in the Upper East Side, and how do these experiences cater to both adults and children? Are there any hidden gems or unconventional menu items that truly set these family-friendly hotels apart from the typical offerings?”,
“refusal
TY for posting, it was unbelieveably informative and helped me a ton
Hi there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my zynga group?
There’s a lot of folks that I think would really appreciate your
content. Please let me know. Thank you
Very interesting information! Perfect just what I was looking for!
“The most wasted day of all is that on which we have not laughed.” by Sbastien-Roch Nicolas de Chamfort.
I was very pleased to find this web-site.I wanted to thanks for your time for this wonderful read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.
Las Vegas has so much to offer beyond the usual attractions! If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider exploring the local art scene or taking a day trip to the nearby Red Rock Canyon for some beautiful hiking. It’s a great way to balance the excitement of the Strip with some natural beauty!
I appreciate the practical advice you’ve given here.
Thank for your sharing. That’s good to take children to this places.
i like this article , it was useful
I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post…
I truly appreciate this post. I’ve been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thanks again!