UB in two days

day 2 in ulaanbatar.  arrived the other day close to midnight to a -12oC temperature.  boots, pashminas, thermal undies, cardigans and downs feather-filled winter coat are doing very well. yesterday and today were chilly but nice and sunny.     

 

so far have seen a north korean circus, checked out the state department store, walked about the city square near my hotel, bonded with amber my minder.  but no chance yet to sample the famous and authentic mongolian bbq and genghis khan vodka. 

UB is enchanting, from what i have seen, nestled by mountains still streaked with snow at this time.  contrary to notions of most people, UB is not without amenities and fun.  my hotel room is clean, warm, internet wired, and equipped with hot shower, hair dryer, t.v. and mini bar.  upwardly mobile denizens have the trappings of modern life.  female yuppies are fashionably pretty with their knee-high boots and western-style winter coats.  elder folks are charming in their traditional clothing, which although similar to the chinese patterns, are distinctively mongolian.  mongolian crafts are of predominantly leather and felt materials.  ehtnic-inspired jackets and cashmere sweaters are dreamy.  boots, ah the boots… wearing them surely transports you to the days of the khans and the great mongol warriors.