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.
The Bund
Walked all over Shanghai today looking for a gym, and found one in a hotel that I snuck into. After, made my way to the bund. Amazing sight.
Update: Shanghai was amazing. The city, the people, the environment, it was just so refreshing after being in Beijing for so long. The city feels more natural, less controlled - probably because all the government buildings are located in Beijing. Shanghai is more green, with trees on every street. There were noticeably less electric scooters and less people blaring their car horns. The street lights had timers on them so cars knew how much longer that green light would last, making it also easier for pedestrians to gauge if they can make it across the street or not. It might sound like a small thing, but this is a huge problem in Beijing - pedestrians. They operate in a 'mob-mentality' regardless of the color of the light. Shanghai was literally and figuratively a breathe of fresh air and I will certainly be open to looking for jobs there upon graduation