@Josh: I’ll be sure to check out that book. I’ve heard a few things about it here and there (namely from your site). I didn’t get a chance to visit the Emin Minaret. In hindsight, considering all the time I wasted visiting sites not worth seeing, I’m disappointed I didn’t get to see that.

@Carrie: Thanks! Photography is turning into a minor passion of mine (when I’m fully up to the task of course, it can be exhausting sometimes). So I really appreciate your praise. And I’d be happy to accept any and all input on my photos.

Look forward to my very first photo essay tomorrow. I’d love to know what all of you think, and I’d love to get advice on what I did wrong and what I did right.

It’s a shame you didn’t get to enjoy all the other sites around Turpan. I think that most tourist, like you, don’t get to really experience these places because the Turpan Tourism Board does a horrible job of educating travelers about why these places are so important and interesting.

I suggest you read a book called Foreign Devils on the Silk Road. Coincidentally, I just reviewed it on my website (check it out here) and I think it gives a historical depth to any trip to Xinjiang – whether you’ve already been or you plan to go again.

Glad you at least liked Jiaohe…but what about the Emin Minaret?

(keep up the writing!)