Left hotel at 9.30 - great to have a late start and everyone certainly happy with this. Went to Olympic Park and visited Birdsnest and Water Cube. A few people climbed up to the top row of the Birdsnest and did an "Aussie, Aussie, Aussie" call. In the Water Cube, they've changed the configuration somewhat. I bet Ray $1million that it was the original pool when he said it wasn't. Can anyone lend me $1 million please - Ray's waiting. I got lost in the complex and knew I had to go to gate 3 to get out. Wrote 3 on a piece of paper and asked a policeman. He headed me in the right direction. People were following my lovely lime green shirt cause they were a little 'lost' as well. Good thing I went the right way. Helen M. arrived at the bus with a 'genuine' gold medal, with 'genuine' jade in the middle. Said she'd won it for the 100 metres sprint. A minor miracle for a senior don't you think? We gave her an "Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi" anyway. Surely she wouldn't tell an untruth!! Then to lunch nearby. We then went to the Temple of Heaven. Most people templed out and it is very hot. Half sat in shade and waited for us. Went to two excellent markets. ..just when you think people can’t shop any more! I seem to be OK for handbags now for a while. The best shopping is certainly in Beijing - the last market 7 floors of anything you could possibly want, at prices that are, shall we say 'frugal'. Dinner at Patio Pizza – a buffet - everyone happy with this. Said goodbye to Margaret. Back at hotel 8.15.
Our lovely guide Lucy
The Birds Nest - athletics stadium
Cleaning
The Olympics Headquarters now IBM - built to resemble a flame
