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.
National Museum of China
Rode my bike to Tiananmen today to go see Mao. After going through the security checkpoint, I get flagged down and asked to open my bag. Low and behold, I had forgotten about my brass knuckles and was politely asked to exit the premises. Don’t you hate when that happens?
The white pillar building is the National Museum of China. On the way home, I thought I’d stop in Wangfujing for some lunch. Although the squid was delicious, the sauce was horrible, like a badly fermented soy sauce. Whatever, I still ate it. It took me 15 minutes to bike from Shuangjing to Tiananmen, largely due to the big bike lanes. For someone who rides a fixed gear in one of the most populated cities in the world, spacious bike lanes are appreciated.
