Some quick observations about Beijing:

- The perception that Asian people are short is not true here.  Everyone is at least 5'10.  

- Food is cheap.  Especially at the university.  I can eat a complete meal at dinnertime for the equivalent of $0.60.  This is with food left over.

- Taxi drivers are more reckless than in NYC.  I don't know how it's possible, but it is. 

- Ramen is better here.  Really.