I think that a highlight of the Beijing portion of the trip was the group visit to the Great Wall. Although with a fear of heights, I personally had a rough start to the adventure, my sister and I were sure to make the most of the trek down the Wall while some of our peers climbed just a bit higher up.
It seems like before going, many people- especially Westerners, don't consider the significance of the Great Wall. In my opinion, it is not only historically significant, but is a physical representation of loyalty. Think of how much effort was put into the wall, and how building continued even after the Mongolian invasion. The Wall stands loyal to those who have built it. I was lucky to have a sister who stayed loyal to me, when I needed it too.
While climbing down the Great Wall, I learned from our tour guide, Jason, that originally sticky rice was used to hold the bricks of the wall together. During WW2, it was restored to due damage by the Japanese, which I never knew before!
THE END :)