旅行支票的事情 - the Traveler's Check Affair

A view of Wuhan's famous East Lake - the largest city lake in the country - a lake that I had the opportunity to get to know quite well as I traversed the city in search of the ellusive Bank of China=-)

Thursday was the much anticipated visit and meeting at the renowned Wuhan Botanical Garden. This was the first garden I planned to visit without the help of a translator, so I was not sure how it would go. However, prior to visiting the garden, I had to cash a traveler's check or two - this, I think ended up reassuring me in my Chinese ability . . . The night before, I learned my hotel did not offer that service, but I had to cash a traveler's check, since the ATMs in the immediate vicinity had a knack for eating my ATM card (luckily the hotel was very helpful and called the bank to come release it . . . haha). So after an hour or so of waiting for the bank representative and a few other unsuccessful attempts in the area, I decided my only option was to go to the bank right as it opened, prior to visiting the botanical garden. I knew, from previous experience, that the only bank in China authorized to deal in foreign currency exchange was the Bank of China. This was confirmed after an inquiry to the hotel, so I was then directed to a local branch that was easily accessible by taxi. Upon arrival, and some nice small talk with the taxi driver (出租车司机), while waiting for the bank to open, I was informed by the bank representative that there was only one branch of the Bank of China in the city that was equipped to exchange foreign currency. Luckily my taxi driver and I had formed quite a close bond, so he was still waiting outside for me, and we proceeded yonder. I finally was able to make it to the correct bank, cash the checks, and make it to the botanical garden in relatively short order due to the incredible navigation and keen maneuvering skills of my taxi driver. Alas, patience is key, as well as a sense of humor, but this is all testament to the amazing adventures one can have in a foreign country - I wouldn't change a thing!