We were already among the last few people in line, and someone still tried to cut in.
The ticket seller shouted at the two people trying to cut in, “We’re not selling tickets to you two!” The two grown men left in a huff, and we got in without any trouble. I was in Shanghai on a business trip, so with nothing planned that evening, I found a moment to call C, who was also in Shanghai. We’ve known each other since our senior year of college and only chat now and then, so we arranged to meet up and wander around.
It really was quite spectacular inside. The flags from all the countries right at the start were already an impressive sight. But since we came at night, we couldn’t get into many of the pavilions anymore (shrug).
And then, the main building of the China Pavilion (wow!)
There were also countless pavilions that must have cost a fortune. It was dazzling—there was more to see than we could take in.
By the time we arrived, these pavilions… were all closed (shrug). The China Pavilion still had a huge line, and I didn’t think I’d make it in before it closed at eight. We did get to look around the Oman and Pakistan pavilions; there were fewer people, so we got into both without any trouble.
Oman Pavilion
Pakistan Pavilion
Then we had a plate of Pakistani noodles that weren’t very good (shakes head).
And of course, Taiwan (so much love!)
But we couldn’t get in anymore—it was too late—so we had to settle for standing outside and watching Jolin Tsai.
All I can say is that this country’s infrastructure is on par with that of a developed country. Unfortunately, I don’t think the people who cut in line are just a tiny minority. As a proportion of the population, sure, the figure would be very low. But do I run into them often? Quite often. Even at the supermarket, there are people who love cutting in line.
