We had breakfast at Traffic Hotelnat 7.30am. By the time we packed up, checked out and made our way to the bus station, it was 9.00am. There were no more buses going to Siguniang. There was only 1 seat left. As I was wondering if we should go back Traffic Hotel or stay at a hotel nearby, a dubious character approached us. She was a tout. After learning about our situation. She started making calls and within minutes, found us a minibus with 3 available seats. After a bit of haggling, I agreed. Better to do that than stay one more night at Chendu.
We departed Chengdu at 9.30am. Once out of the city, we got onto some of the worst roads in the world. Bumping and jolting, we went for 10km before hitting better roads at Wolong. Then, it was a spectacular climb into the clouds. The top of the pass stood close to 5000m. The little was looking miserable. Everyone on the bus assured us that he would be fine after the descent to Chang Ping Village. The little one lay down to sleep and the passenger next to him happily offered his thigh.
We arrived at the A Lee Ben Youth Hostel at Chang Ping Villae at 2.00pm. It is a very friendly and casual place. We had long chats with the staff and fellow travellers. One of them even taught the big boy to play snooker.
We had a very late lunch and after, the two boys immediately tucked into their beds to enjoynthe warmth of the electric blankets. Snooze. We’ll be off to meet Siguniang herself tomorrow.
Check Out Knapsack Books by Chan Joon Yee