CHINA
Country Overview:
"A land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization, and delectable cuisine coexists with complex political realities."
My seven-year journey in China, from May 2013 to August 2020, was a whirlwind of experiences. I taught English, pursued my Master's in Politics & Foreign Policy at the prestigious Tsinghua University, and immersed myself in the media landscape at China Today and Xinhua News Agency. Beijing was my home base, but my travels painted a vibrant tapestry of China's diverse landscapes and cultures: the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, the historic city of Xi'an, the tropical paradise of Sanya, the unique blend of East and West in Macau and Hong Kong, and countless other destinations in between. From savoring the exquisite flavors of regional cuisines to navigating the intricacies of daily life under a distinct political system, China left an indelible mark on me.
Last Dinner In Beijing
Headed to Sanya tomorrow morning for at least 2 weeks. Have to wait and see what countries open in June. Chinese visa expires June 10, so I’ve got about 3 weeks to hangout until I’m forced to leave.
Spicy wontons. Sichuan cold noodles. Sichuan potatoes shaped like French fried but not fried. Chinese croquettes with egg custard filling.
Beijing’s Last Game at Gongti
Yesterday was a really big day, not only for Beijing Guo'an, but also for the city and me as an individual.
With a 3-2 win against Shandong Luneng (scoring the final goal in the 91st minute), the players managed to offer an action-packed afternoon to their 51,000 fans in their final game of the Chinese Super League (CSL) season. Despite the exciting game, they finished 2nd in the CSL after Guangzhou.
More importantly, Beijing Guo'an has officially said farewell to its beloved Workers' Stadium in the heart of Sanlitun. The team now starts preparations to move to the Olympic Stadium for the next three years while their regular home undergoes extensive renovations.
When I first got to Beijing, I expressed an interest in the team to a coworker and she ended up getting me a signed Beijing Guo'an jersey in 2013. I’ve been a fan ever since and have attended numerous games over my years in the capital. With an exciting last game of the season, and last game at the stadium I’ve visited many times, it also signified my last Beijing game as I am planning to leave China before next year’s season begins. Thanks for the memories!
The last picture is from my 3rd thanksgiving dinner at a bar on Friday.
Peruvian Food In China
Frozen Prisco sour, lomo saltado, and ceviche. Overall, the food was ok, but what really stood out to me were the prices. Lomo saltado, a staple of Peruvian food, was more than $20 in China when it would be no more than $3 in Peru. Would I go here again? Probably not. Hard to justify the prices and quality of the food compared to the real thing during my time in Arequipa. Had good interior design and good salsa music - although I wish it had more of a grittier style restaurant feel instead of trying to be “high-class” Peruvian food.
Food Festival in 798
Despite not taking any pictures of food, there really was a food festival. Everything outside just seemed better to take pictures of.
Crawfish dinner
Crawfish in a spicy garlic sauce, sliced pig lungs over chopped cucumbers topped with peanuts, and clams in spicy garlic sauce