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.
Great Hall 2
Each province in China has their own 'room' within this building and we were allowed access into the "Fujian/Xiamen" room (Where my friends girlfriend is from) as it is the 'best' room in the building. She was quite proud about this. This was also the room (we were told) where Xi and Premier Li meet to hold discussions. So naturally we sat in the chairs and tried to look authoritative. Both the murals are woven, which made them that much more impressive upon further examination. The finale included a trip to the roof where we could overlook Tiananmen and Mao Zedong's Mausoleum. This was definitely a tour to be remembered, although I'm hesitant about wether or not to show these to the world. Enjoy them while they lasts.