Morning
China's heating system is quite different from any other country. Back in the 50s, in the middle of a severe energy shortage, the central government drew a line across the country. Places north of the line could enjoy a subsidized central heating system, while no heating would be provided for those living in the south.
I experienced the effects of the so-called heating line last March in Hunan province. We spent the night over the Zhangjiajie mountains with an electric blanket as the only way to stay warm. As comfortable as that was, leaving a cozy bed and getting dressed in a freezing room was a serious challenge to my willpower.
An hour later I was glad I did it. The sunrise over the karst peaks was spectacular, and a crowd of trembling Chinese tourists seemed to agree with me.
Morning
China's heating system is quite different from any other country. Back in the 50s, in the middle of a severe energy shortage, the central government drew a line across the country. Places north of the line could enjoy a subsidized central heating system, while no heating would be provided for those living in the south.
I experienced the effects of the so-called heating line last March in Hunan province. We spent the night over the Zhangjiajie mountains with an electric blanket as the only way to stay warm. As comfortable as that was, leaving a cozy bed and getting dressed in a freezing room was a serious challenge to my willpower.
An hour later I was glad I did it. The sunrise over the karst peaks was spectacular, and a crowd of trembling Chinese tourists seemed to agree with me.