Who needs Europe?

I can't believe that I have not posted for several weeks...All of my former murmurings about daughters not blogging on a weekly basis has now ceased and been repented of! Erin's "Blanks" have rubbed off on me...and it is a challenge to snap out of it!
On Thursday of last week, I went to Shenzen with Irene and her two houseguests that were visiting from the US. We went to two cultural sites...One was called "Windows of the World" and the other one, "Splendid China." It took about 90 minutes by train to get there from Hong Kong. Irene is absolutely amazing as a tour guide. She can out walk and out last any person her age or younger! I think she has been to these two attractions at least 6-7 times and each time she goes, she has the enthusiasm of first timer! The day was hot and humid...and a little stifling at times!

This is the opening scene to Windows of the World! Who needs Paris or Rome? It is all right here in Shenzen!
Splendid China was mentored by The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie. Loosely based on what they do in Hawaii, the China version is a little over the top! We saw three shows...The Mongolian Horseback Riders, Oriental Dress show, and a chinese themed Dragon and Phoenix show. Windows of the World is a themed park displaying natural and man made wonders of the world. A wee bit cheesey...but I guess if you can't go and see the real thing, come to China and witness it in minature! We left at 8 in the morning, and didn't get home until 10:30 that night. I was almost too tired to sleep!

Dad and I didn't need to go to Japan to see Mt. Fugi...it's here--in all it's glory!

Irene and I at the Taj Mahal...I know, I just can't stop talking about it--but at least I am not wearing the green shirt!

I know what you are thinking...is it really possible to see the Effiel Tower and Mount Rushmore from the nation's capital? The answer is obvious..."Seeing is believing!"

Kara, can your Tower of London compare with this?