First few days

We've been here just over a week now - just about getting used to being 8 hours ahead. Our hotel flat is lovely, but somewhat tiny. Naomi sleeps in a wardrobe in our room, the three other children "sleep" in another room. Usually after a few hours of noise. Nice views from the windows though. And a good park nearby, very near shops and transport and stuff. Takes about 20 minutes to get to the hospital for work. There is internet in the hotel, but the time available is v.limited, and no Skype. I have put Skype on my computer in the office, but as I'm there between midnight and 9am UK time, it's not that helpful for ringing home.

The weather is generally cloudy, with one or two days quite hot.

Food... is interesting. Western food available easily, but we have been trying to be brave. Lots of Dim Sum. I even had chicken feet. Or to be strictly accurate, chicken foot. Tried one... decided not to repeat the experience (at least for a while).

Paperwork and bureaucracy... is massive. But at least once it's done, the system works efficiently and quickly. We've sorted bank account and ID cards and stuff. Still lots of other things to get though.

Church on Sunday was great - and 930 till 1215 or so. Yep. With a coffee/bun break in the middle.

We haven't done an awful lot of touristy stuff - the first week was mostly admin things (and sleep); and this week I've been at work in the day and Victoria's been home-schooling with the children. But Saturday we did get to go to the island - across on the ferry, and up the long escalator to the zoo.

We now need to get a car... and can't wait to move into our proper flat (we hope it'll be the 4th or 5th Feb). Then we can start living a bit more normally.

Thanks to all who've emailed us - apologies if we haven't replied yet. Will soon!!