A RAINY DAY IN BEIJING !!!

Beijing, Day 7

YES! You won’t believe it! Today, at 10h34 local time, the first raindrops fell and washed away the heat, the smog, the dust, …(and probably a lot of other things as well). And all that thanks to the author of these lines' rain dance, which worked even without the neighbors???

We're swimming in the rain...(after the dance).

With all that fresh air the HoS team worked on full speed, getting ready for the approaching events (Triumph fashion show and Swiss National Day) as well as tonight’s food tasting. Hanlin and the stewarding team were facing a mixture of water shortages and floods, resulting in piles of dirty pots, trays, plates, but also in a rather furious Marco.

Busy chefs at the HoS.

A happy face. Hanlin is back at the HoS!

Since my plumbing skills are rather limited (the skills of the local professionals as well, it seems…). I took the opportunity of clean air and blue sky to visit the Olympic Park with the “Bird’s Nest”, the National Aquatic Centre, and finally Pangu Plaza where Kitty and Jason just survived yesterday’s hotel opening, after months of preparations. What a challenge in Beijing’s 7 (seven) star hotel.

Kitty, the author, and Jason high above Beijing.

I'm proud to meet my alumni!

A perfect view on a perfectly clear day, taken from Kitty's Happiness Lounge.

The Aquatic Centre in front of the Bird's Nest.

Back at the house the catwalk was fully lit for the rehearsal of Triumph’s light & sound team, and there he was: Shuimiao, my brave trainee of Bouveret’s Cesar Lounge, who is about to finish his management training with the Grand Hyatt in Beijing. Just in time for the food presentation and tasting. The chefs under Mark’s expert guidance did a great job, and largely deserved the compliments from the organizers.

Wanna be my bodyguards?

Shuimiao feels like in Brig, with big rocks on every side.

What is he doing? Chefs Mark (left) and Arni (other side).

Some tasty sample of things to come.

Where are the "Brätchügeli"?

The boss questions Chefs Mark and Hakon.

The evening finished with an excellent meal at “South Beauty” (thanks, Miao!), and finally a nightcap at “Touch”, everybody’s favorite late night lounge. CK

Speeding in Beijing? Parking on the walkway?

Passing a red traffic light?

No problem here in Beijing! The handcuffs come with a big smile:-)