Crazy Street

'Crazy street?' you say. 'What about it makes it crazy?'

China, as you are well aware has a population closing in on 1.5 billion people! Despite the very strict 'One-child' policy, this population is still incredible. And, with so many people, this results in densely populated cities such as Xi'an with close to 10 million people in just under 4,000 sq miles you can imagine it being very crowded.

Luckily for the teachers at Hanova, living on the west side of town provides us with ample personal space 99% of the time. 

However, Xi'an is a bustling city with more than enough fruit stands and shopping districts to keep you busy for a decade and one such place can be found on what we lovingly refer to as "Crazy street". 

First off, let me dispel any rumors as this is NOT the actual name of the street. The actual street is named... well, no one actually knows. I'm sure Google or Baidu maps has it somewhere but, let's be serious its not important. If you want to experience something truly Chinese, then take a little walk down 'Crazy Street' with me.

Your first decision is your mode of transportation. Will you walk or will you hope in one of the long golf carts? Either way you will experience lots of people, lights, food, and shops.

Crazy street is full of vendors selling you their items. They aren't as pushy as some shopping areas I've been to. People aren't constantly yelling at you and trying to get you to come into their shop like other places I've been. There are also many different kinds of street food.

We've seen shoe repairmen, key makers, accessories and trinkets, and more. A popular accessory is a hair clip with a plastic sprout or leaf glued on it. People wear them on top of their head and it reminds me of Dr. Suess's Whoville. You can also find great prices on leather purses and knock-off designer bags.