One of the most important parts of exploring a new country and culture is--for me at least--trying all the new and exciting foods.

China is no different. In fact, China offers more opportunities than many of the places I have experienced to-date. This seems to be the result of a strange historical and cultural combination whereby food is initially eaten through necessity and then continues to be eaten through that dogged Chinese determination that is 'saving face': it's quite amazing what you can get 'on a stick' here.

I am reliably informed that all of the most expensive foods taste bad. Taste is--apparently--not the point.