U.S./China Environmental Education Exchange

Day 12: Washington D.C. Journal

Day 12 D.C. Photos | Introduction to Exchange

This trip is an incredible opportunity for learning about education and the environment in the United States. It is also the first opportunity the students and teachers have had to come to the United States. For some, this may be their only opportunity to see the U.S. With this in mind, the morning was spent shopping. The main request was for chocolates to take back to their schools and friends. Pentagon City shopping mall had something for everyone.

The afternoon was a continuation of the Washington D.C. sights. First stop was the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum where the group received a private tour of the Chinese artifacts stored there. The Museum was gracious enough to provide a free viewing of the Galapagos 3D IMAX movie.

For the rest of the afternoon, the students were allowed to explore the National Mall and other Smithsonian museums on their own. Some headed for the Air and Space Museum, some took in the Van Goghs at the National Gallery of Art, and some took pictures of the monuments up and down the Mall.

Dinner in the evening was a true adventure for both the Chinese guests and the American hosts. The Marakesh Restaurant serves true Middle Eastern food, complete with pillows on the floor, no silverware, and a belly dancer.

Day 12 D.C. Photos | Introduction to Exchange