The oasis of Turpan is located in the Turpan basin, second only to Death Valley, California in elevation below sea level. Returning from Urumqi we were once again in the desert depression. It was 95^ at 2pm and the wind was blowing pretty hard-another dust storm...yippee!
We stopped just before the junction for lunch. Then, guess what? Our guide missed the turnoff. We were now headed in the wrong direction on a fenced and divided tollway. Ten kilometers down there was police turnaround. We made an illegal u-turn and were back on track.
Out of the bleak desert sand and Rock sprang a huge, modern oasis city. Where an irrigation canal reached, it was lush and green.
We stopped at the museum for an overview before going to our hotel. It was an amazing museum, beautifully oriented and presented. The mummies were outstanding. With a grand overview of the area, we settled in for a great test bro morrow we tour the ruins, tombs, and irrigation system.
Our hotel, BTW, for the first time on this adventure, was a true "budget" establishment making even the best Motel 6 look and smell like a sultan's palace. Ha-ha!
Sent from Leopard's iPhone. Read my blog at www.leopard2013.blogspot.com
From the Mediterranean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, this is my first "round-the-world" tour and the first time I am traveling alone. It's also the first time I am NOT the leader of the group. This will be a huge adventure for me, one that tests my patience (smile), stamina and my ability to adapt. I can't wait!
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