This morning I booked myself for a five day horseback riding tour with a guide for US$200. I'll go back on 17 June to confirm it.
I got an envelope with stamps and changed about US$115 into toghrug, because tomorrow I'm going to the market to buy a dehl and riding boots. It still feels strange to be alone, but I'm feeling better now. The Mongols at the hotel are starting to know me. One asked me how was it outside in Mongolian after I had returned. It took awhile for me to realize what he said, but when I did I replied in Mongolian, "Cool outside. "
BeeBee and I had lunch together at the hotel. He received a letter from Indiana University, informing him of a scholarship they offer for Mongols to attend the university there. He wanted to find out who gave them his address so that he could thank that individual. I told him that I was a member of the Mongolia Society at Indiana University, and that I would see what I could do. We also talked about the U.S. and Mongolia, etc.. It was a nice talk.
Tonight I'll walk over to the Ulaanbaatar Hotel to have dinner with BeeBee and an American woman who will be coming in for the 'Adventure Tour'.
Had dinner with BeeBee and Elizabeth, a Texan. She had been travelling in China for a month. We all had a pleasant time. Well, almost. I had gas.
Boy, this Ulaanbaatar Hotel is a real hangout. It draws all the worst about the city right to it.
BeeBee is a real nice guy. He gave me his Aunt's phone#, just in case I need something.
Oh yeah, when I was at the Ulaanbaatar Hotel, waiting for BeeBee, a Mongol started talking to me in Mongolian. I let him know I didn't understand and he told me that he had thought I was a Mongol!!