I wanted to take the time out to introduce the tour group that made this trip as awesome. :) So many great memories were made. I hope we'll all keep in touch!

Jenny from the block
Our young tour guide from Guilin who took us through the first half of our trip from Beijing to Xi'an. She's quick-witted and competitive when it comes to Chinese Poker. Has unbeatable bargaining skills and tends to change her tone of voice according to who she's trying to persuade. Can be evasive at times but always goofy. Likes to pick on Scott.

Scott
Scott is an extremely easy-going and chatty Australian guy whose favorite conversation topics happened to be embarrassing ones (accidently mimed a request for the tour bus to have sex with him). Has an infectious laugh and came up with theme songs for everyone. Worked a number of odd jobs mostly social work-related. Recently done some roaming around Bali, Adelaide, Darwin, and Vietnam.

Becky-Jay
Hailing from Melbourne is Becky-Jay, a spunky, tough-as-nails girl who's not afraid to speak her mind. Has a thorough understanding of acupuncture and holistic healing practices, as she's studied this subject for a few years in college. Worked in I.T. previously and came to China to figure out whether or not to further pursue her studies in Chinese medicine. Eager to find the rare gems of non-touristy spots. She will be trekking around Northwestern China and Southeast Asia for the next few months.

Sarah
Sarah is a Pom who was raised in Germany and Australia. She's soft-spoken but hilarious if you happen to catch what she's saying. Celebrated her birthday while on this tour. Has been traveling with her longtime co-worker, Annmarie, for at least five months before the China tour. Her hair stays immaculate even during the roughest parts of the trip. Seems fond of venturing through new street markets. Headed for Osaka, Japan after China.

Annmarie
Just a few minutes talking with Annmarie is all it takes to be rolling on the floor laughing. As a liberal mom who does a lot traveling, she has some of the funniest stories. Has worked and traveled with Sarah through Cambodia, Thailand, and Bolivia. She battled a leg infection from an unfortunate accident in Thailand while in China but her inner fighter kept her going until the end of the tour.

Nona
Nona is a teacher from San Diego speedily working towards her doctorate in education. Can be resourceful and is very passionate about children. Often attempts engage with the native population. Likes to wander and explore on her own. Planning other trips to Africa and South America later this year.


Tomic
Our tour guide for the 2nd leg of the tour. He's from Beijing but went to college in Xi'an. Has the tendency to overuse the phrase "strictly forbidden," does it all in good humor though.



Other tour group members who joined up for the 2nd part of the tour. Didn't get to know them as well as the first six but here they are:

Emily from England





Sarah from England





Martin from Germany





Jon from New Zealand





Becky from Canada





Renatta from Brazil




Carolyn "Kaz" from Australia