The winter is driven away and spring is returning anew

 

I have survived my first winter in Beijing. It has been quite a shock for me to move from the relatively mild winters of Southwest France to the harsh and freezing winters of Beijing's continental climate. 

Riding to work on a bicycle by -18°C and winds blowing straight out of the steppes of Mongolia was particularly unpleasant. Luckily, the ride only lasts 15 minutes so it is still bearable with the right amount of clothing. 

 

On the other hand, I joined a trek on the Great Wall in mid February under strong winds blowing at -10°C. I think that has been the most demanding trek I have ever done up to now because of the freezing wind. Stopping and taking out gloves to relace my hiking boots for just 2 minutes meant 30 minutes trying to get my body and fingers warm again.

The one real advantage of the Mongolian winter wind blowing over Beijing is its pushing air pollution away. It is thanks to the wind that the city can enjoy wonderful blue skies and clear sunlight. 

 

 

Having had to stay indoors for four consecutive days of air pollution and depressing smog over the Chinese new year holiday, I think I now prefer cold temperatures and harsh winds to humidity and smog.

Waltz of my heart

Ivor Novello, James Shearman, from the original motion picture soundtrack of Gosford Park, Decca