Less than two weeks to go!

And we're sweating the packing. My issue: shoes.

As of now we expect to take one carry-on, one checked bag, one laptop, and one "purse." Into these receptacles we need to fit:

• 4-5 changes of clothes each
• Sleepwear
• Meds/skeeter repellent/sunblock
• Cameras
• First aid supplies
• Books/booklight/alarm clock
• MP3 player and 'phones
• Batteries, and lots of 'em
• Snackage

And--shoes. But which shoes? Athletic shoes, of course, for managing the walking tours. That one's easy. But I'll need something a little nicer for the concerts. And because it'll be hot, I'll probably appreciate having a pair of sandals along.

Tricky, the sandals. They have to be sturdy and comfortable and go with pretty much everything. I read in another blog that they should have a heel strap, otherwise they look like bath slippers to the Chinese and are considered "rude."

The only comfortable sandals I own are my battered old Tevas. They're clunky, they smell funny, and they go with everything only if "everything" is t-shirts and shorts. (They do have a heel strap, however.) And they take up more space in a suitcase than any pair of sandals has a right to.

Speaking of shorts, we're still not sure whether we should pack any. On the one hand, our trip advisers say:

"There is no dress code for China, and there are no ‘forbidden’ clothes or colors. We will be easily identified as tourists, and are not expected to know or adhere to any particular Chinese cultural expectations for clothing color or style."

And on the other:

"China is a conservative country. One does not have to dress formally, but shorts and tank tops are probably not okay. Loose fitting, conservative clothing will be
comfortable for everyday wear. Short-sleeves (shirts, dresses) are okay."

So nothing is forbidden, but shorts are (probably) not okay. Got it. At least I have the option of skirts or capris. Not sure what Carl's going to do.