Our trips to Guogou Plaza

We have now journeyed to the mall twice since being here (and if you must ask, there is only one male in our group).  The first time, we just went there for the cultural experience which consisted of walking around aimlessly.  The second time, we went to get ice cream in order celebrate Valentine's day properly.  I was surprised to find out the Chinese do indeed celebrate what I thought was an American holiday although as you may expect, it is a bit less commercial here.  I only noticed the flower shops around here seemed to be a bit more busy than usual.

Our walk from the bus stop to the mall.  Apparently the Chinese love neon lights

Our group arriving at the mall and yes we definitely stick out like sore thumbs

Inside the mall

A store display

You can't read this sign but this is a microbrewery at the mall which made me laugh.  The name of it is "Golden Hans", they served meat Brazilian style and instead of normal pint glasses, they served beer in what looked to be child sized glasses.

Our bus trip back. We barely got on, it was that crowded. Intense!

Us, getting up close and personal with the native Hefei-ers/ans (?).  Aside from our group, I have yet to see a single non-asian person since arriving in Hefei.