West meets east

We have now been at Taihu Golf Club hotel in the province of Jiangsu, China for almost 24 hours. It’s such an amazing place, so I wanted to share some of the experiences we have had.

First of all, the hospitality is incredible. We are staying in a nice hotel and the staff is very hands on. I can’t lift a finger without at least four people helping me. They are certainly committed to making our stay comfortable and relaxing.

All the amenities including the restaurant are very western; we had corn flakes, toast and omelets for breakfast. Of course, if you feel like adventuring out there are several Asian choices to try. We started the week’s activities with a private clinic for some golf enthusiasts. Golf was introduced to China only 25 years ago, so it’s very new and they are very inquisitive and want to learn more.

My press conference was busy as many local and international reporters attended. This is the first LET tournament in the country, so there is a lot of interest. The welcome dinner took place at the hotel and it was a small private function. I sat next to the owner of the golf facility and his business associates. We were served 10 courses including appetizers, fish balls, dumplings, lotus, coconut milk soup with dragon fruit and a sweet desert.

I rounded up my day with a nice neck and back massage in the newly remodeled spa. Again they delivered on the customer service and I must say I feel very welcome in this eastern part of the world.

Comments

[Annika the Cat]

Hi Annika,

How nice for you... Not having to lift a paw - a 10 course meal - a neck & back massage.. Remember when I wrote to you about my typical day? This sounds very similar and kudos to China!

It's great to hear about China's interest in women's golf. There will be many who get hooked and I bet they find their way to The ANNIKA Academy.

Just sent in my absentee voter's ballot because next week I am in Reunion.

Paws are crossed! Go Annika!!!!!!!

AtC

[Dee H.]

AtC and my pets have it pretty good when you look at it that way! :-)

AtC is in Reunion??? I am curious to see how golf mechanics translate to a cat's anatomy!

It sounds wonderful, this trip to the Far East, I have a friend who grew up in the military world who has briefed me on Japan and China. She has extremely fond memories.

[Lowell]

What geography! The opportunity of perspective has to be of it's own reward. The veiw of China that the Olympics provided opened a page that must include matters very credible interest. The golf course(s) there must themselves, tell quite a story. Alot of story to tell. All the best!

[Buzz]

Thank you for taking the time to keep your fans posted on where you are, what you (and Mike) are doing, and how much you are enjoying these travels. I must say that we all enjoy "travelling" with you.

Your posts, while not quite as detailed as National Geographic, are none-the-less just as interesting.

Michael......take good care of our lady.