This place was so cool – it was originally built by an Emperor for his mother’s 60th Birthday (obvious Oedipus complex going on here….) and was used by successors as a place to find relief from the sticky Beijing summer heat. Now, as an American who's done a bit of traveling in Europe, when I hear “palace” I think Buckingham, so this place REALLY blew me away. It’s about 3 sq. miles and surrounding a lake – it’s huge and endless and absolutely stunning. This one did not disappoint!
Taking a break on a pillar after the slightly sketchy boat ride across the lake to the other side of the Palace- I'm on vacation!
...and enjoying some snacks...these are tie w/ the custared cakes for the best snack ever. Tastes exactly like pizza...(ooooh, pizza).....
