Discover the Soul of Fujian in China Journal Spring 2025

In China Journal Spring 2025 – From Putian to Xiamen: A Memoir of Connection and Contrast, readers are invited on an intimate journey through one of China’s most dynamic regions. This evocative travel memoir blends personal narrative with rich cultural insights, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of Fujian Province.

A Tale of Two Cities

From the ancestral temples and slow-paced rhythms of Putian to the vibrant, fast-evolving streets of Xiamen, the author paints a striking portrait of a land where tradition and modernity coexist. Through vivid storytelling, the book explores:

• Authentic Encounters – Heartwarming interactions with locals, from tea farmers to urban entrepreneurs.
• Cultural Contrasts – The tension and harmony between old-world customs and rapid development.
• Sensory Adventures – The tastes, sounds, and textures of Fujian, from Putian’s home-style dishes to Xiamen’s seafood markets.

Why You’ll Love This Book

• For Travel Enthusiasts – A deep dive into off-the-beaten-path China, beyond the usual tourist spots.
• For Memoir Readers – A reflective, personal journey that resonates with universal themes of belonging and change.
• For Sinophiles – Fresh perspectives on contemporary Chinese life, culture, and regional identity.

Perfect For Fans Of:

• Peter Hessler’s River Town
• Rob Gifford’s China Road
• Personal travelogues with cultural depth

Get Your Copy Today and experience Fujian through the eyes of a keen observer—where every page reveals a new layer of connection and contrast.

 Available now on Amazon Kindle  Read the Book Here

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The Journey Begins: Entering China During Zero-COVID

Defying the odds, Clive made it into China in 2021 when the country was virtually closed to the world. With no direct flights, mandatory COVID tests, and a gruelling quarantine, his arrival was just the beginning of a rollercoaster ride.

• Endless Tests and Health Codes: Weekly COVID tests and the infamous health code system became a part of daily life.
• Lockdowns and Isolation: A single positive case could trigger a lockdown, leaving Clive stranded on an island with no way out.

The Zero-COVID Madness

As the months rolled on, the Zero-COVID policies took their toll. Clive found himself trapped in a hotel, cut off from the world, as his patience wore thin. The constant uncertainty and restrictions tested his resolve, but he persevered.

The End of Zero-COVID and a New Challenge
When Zero-COVID finally ended in late 2023, the virus swept through China like wildfire. Streets emptied, and Clive caught COVID for the first time, leaving him bed-bound over Christmas.

• Juggling Illness and Responsibilities: Despite being unwell, Clive had to manage a mountain of exam prep, adding to his exhaustion.
• Family Troubles Back Home: With family issues in the UK weighing on his mind, Clive made the difficult decision to leave China.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Clive’s time in China was a saga of bureaucratic hurdles, cultural quirks, and unforgettable friendships. As he boarded a one-way flight out of the country, he knew this wasn’t just the end—it was the closing of a chapter that had tested, taught, and transformed his life.

Why You Should Read Clive’s Story

Clive’s journey is more than just a personal account; it’s a window into life in China during a historic period. His story is filled with:

• Cultural Insights: Discover the unique challenges and quirks of living in China.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Learn how Clive navigated one of the world’s strictest COVID regimes.
• Unforgettable Experiences: From lockdowns to friendships, his tale is both heartwarming and eye-opening.

Get the Book

Experience Clive’s incredible journey firsthand. His new Kindle book, Come to China, They Said, is now available on Amazon.

 Read the Book Here

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1. Understanding Your Visa Options

• Student Visa (Tier 4): For those enrolled in a UK university or educational institution.
• Standard Visitor Visa: Perfect for tourists or those visiting friends and family.

2. Steps to Apply

1. Check Eligibility: Visit the UK government’s official website to confirm which visa you need.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all the required paperwork ready (see below).
3. Submit Your Application Online: Follow the step-by-step instructions provided.
4. Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photographs at a visa application centre.
5. Wait for Approval: Processing times vary, so apply as early as possible.

3. Required Documentation

• Student Visa:
  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
  • Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS results).
  • Financial evidence to show you can cover tuition and living costs.
  • Passport and recent photos.
• Tourist Visa:
  • Travel itinerary, including flight and accommodation details.
  • Proof of financial support (bank statements).
  • Passport and recent photos.

4. Common Challenges

• Incomplete Documentation: Double-check your paperwork to avoid delays.
• Language Barriers: Misunderstanding application instructions can lead to errors.
• Tight Deadlines: Start your application early to allow time for corrections if needed.

By planning carefully and seeking help when necessary, you can successfully secure your visa.

For more detailed guides, tips, and support, subscribe to British Panda! We provide valuable advice tailored to Chinese students and tourists visiting the UK. Don’t miss out—sign up today to make your UK journey stress-free!

英国签证申请指南：赴英中国访客需要了解的信息

计划去英国留学或旅行？办理签证可能看起来复杂，但只要准备充分，这其实是一个相对简单的过程。以下是帮助您开始的快速指南！

1. 了解签证类型

• 学生签证（Tier 4）： 适用于已被英国大学或教育机构录取的学生。
• 标准访问签证： 适用于游客或探亲访友者。

2. 申请步骤

1. 确认资格： 访问英国政府官网，确认您需要申请哪种签证。
2. 准备材料： 确保您准备好所有所需文件（见下文）。
3. 在线提交申请： 按照官网提供的逐步说明完成在线申请。
4. 参加生物信息采集： 在签证申请中心提交指纹和照片。
5. 等待批准： 审核时间各不相同，因此请尽早申请。

3. 所需材料

• 学生签证：
  • 您所在大学出具的学习录取确认书（CAS）。
  • 英语水平证明（如雅思成绩）。
  • 财力证明，显示您有能力支付学费和生活费。
  • 护照和近期照片。
• 旅游签证：
  • 旅行计划，包括航班和住宿信息。
  • 财力证明（银行对账单）。
  • 护照和近期照片。

4. 常见挑战

• 材料不完整： 仔细检查文件，确保无遗漏，避免延误。
• 语言障碍： 误解申请说明可能导致错误。
• 时间紧迫： 尽早开始申请，为可能的修改留出时间。

通过细致规划并在必要时寻求帮助，您可以顺利拿到签证。

更多详细指南、贴士和支持，请订阅 British Panda！我们提供针对中国学生和游客赴英的宝贵建议。不要错过，立即订阅，让您的英国之旅更加顺畅无忧！

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Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth

China is a country steeped in history, tradition, and rapid modernization. Teaching in China allows you to immerse yourself in a culture vastly different from your own. You’ll have the chance to learn Mandarin, explore ancient landmarks, and experience Chinese festivals and traditions firsthand. This immersion can lead to significant personal growth, broaden your worldview, and deepen your appreciation for cultural diversity.

Professional Development

China’s education system is renowned for its rigour and innovation. Teaching here will enhance your professional skills and expand your teaching repertoire. You’ll gain experience with different pedagogical methods and classroom management techniques. Furthermore, working in China can make your resume stand out, showcasing your adaptability and global perspective to future employers.

Financial Benefits

Teaching in China often comes with attractive financial incentives. Many schools offer competitive salaries, free housing or housing allowances, and comprehensive health insurance. The cost of living in many parts of China is lower than in Western countries, allowing you to save a substantial portion of your income. Additionally, some contracts include airfare reimbursement and performance bonuses, making the financial benefits even more appealing.

Demand for English Teachers

The demand for English teachers in China remains high, providing numerous job opportunities across the country. From bustling cities like Beijing and Shanghai to smaller towns and rural areas, there’s a need for qualified educators. This demand ensures job security and allows you to choose a location that fits your lifestyle preferences.

Making a Difference

Teaching English in China can have a profound impact on your students. English proficiency is a valuable skill in China, opening doors to higher education and better job opportunities. By teaching English, you’re not only helping students learn a new language but also equipping them with tools that can significantly improve their future prospects. This sense of purpose and contribution can be incredibly rewarding.

Adventure and Travel

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes and attractions. From the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army to the beautiful karst mountains of Guilin and the serene landscapes of Yunnan, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Teaching in China gives you the chance to travel and experience the rich tapestry of the country during your weekends and holidays.

Conclusion

Teaching in China in 2024 offers a blend of adventure, professional growth, financial benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. It’s an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, experience a vibrant culture, and contribute to the global community. If you’re ready for a transformative experience, consider making the move to teach in China. It’s a decision that promises both personal and professional rewards.

———-

Whilst studying in the UK, why not have your work professionally proofread? Click here for more information.

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1. Hungry Ghost Festival

Date: August 22, 2023
Celebration: The Hungry Ghost Festival is observed on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. Visit Hong Kong or Taiwan to witness vibrant celebrations and street performances that entertain the wandering spirits. Offerings of food, incense, and paper money are made at temples and ancestral graves.

Gifts: During the Hungry Ghost Festival, it is customary to offer small gifts to the deceased. Consider bringing items like paper money (joss paper), incense, or symbolic items like paper clothes, houses, or cars made for the spirits.

2. Mid-Autumn Festival (Moon Festival)

Date: September 12, 2023
Celebration: The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, and it is one of the most important festivals in China. For a memorable experience, visit Guangzhou or Beijing, where you can witness the beauty of lantern displays and enjoy moon-gazing events.

Gifts: Mooncakes are the traditional gift during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Consider giving a box of intricately designed mooncakes, and choose from various fillings such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk.

3. National Day (Golden Week)

Dates: October 1 – October 7, 2023
Celebration: National Day marks the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Beijing is the ideal destination during this Golden Week, as the city comes alive with cultural performances, parades, and impressive firework displays.

Gifts: During Golden Week, giving small souvenirs or tokens of appreciation to friends and family is a common practice. You can choose from keychains, magnets, or traditional Chinese crafts as thoughtful gifts.

4. Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival)

Date: October 19, 2023
Celebration: The Double Ninth Festival is celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. To experience the festival, visit Chengdu or Hangzhou, where locals climb mountains, appreciate chrysanthemum flowers, and partake in cultural activities.

Gifts: Chongyang cakes, made with various ingredients like chestnuts, jujubes, and lotus seeds, are popular gifts during this festival. They symbolize good fortune and longevity.

5. Winter Solstice Festival

Date: December 22, 2023
Celebration: For a heartwarming Winter Solstice experience, visit Xi’an or Shanghai, where families gather for a reunion dinner to welcome longer days. The traditional practice of making tangyuan (sweet rice balls) adds to the festive atmosphere.

Gifts: During the Winter Solstice Festival, it is customary to gift tangyuan or other festive treats to family and friends as a gesture of good wishes for the coming year.

6. Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

Date: January 22, 2024
Celebration: Chinese New Year, the most significant festival in China, is celebrated with grandeur across the country. For an unforgettable experience, visit Beijing or Hong Kong, where you can witness dragon and lion dances, vibrant parades, and stunning fireworks displays.

Gifts: Red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money are a traditional gift during Chinese New Year. Giving red envelopes to children, family members, and friends symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

7. Lantern Festival

Date: February 5, 2024
Celebration: Conclude the Chinese New Year celebrations in Shanghai or Chengdu, where magnificent lantern displays and cultural performances adorn the city. The beautiful sight of glowing lanterns floating on water is a sight to behold.

Gifts: The Lantern Festival is the perfect occasion to gift colourful lanterns to loved ones. Paper lanterns in various shapes and sizes make delightful souvenirs and meaningful gifts.

8. Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day)

Date: April 4, 2024
Celebration: During Qingming Festival, visit Xi’an or Nanjing to witness the locals paying respects to their ancestors by cleaning and offering sacrifices at gravesites. Enjoy the scenic beauty of blossoming trees and participate in the traditional flying of kites.

Gifts: As a gesture of respect, it is appropriate to bring flowers, incense, and offerings of food to the gravesites. Alternatively, you can also offer symbolic items like paper money or items made from paper to honour the deceased.

9. Dragon Boat Festival

Date: June 6, 2024
Celebration: Celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival in Guilin or Suzhou, where you can witness thrilling dragon boat races on picturesque rivers and lakes. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with locals dressed in traditional attire.

Gifts: Zongzi, traditional pyramid-shaped rice dumplings, are the quintessential gift during the Dragon Boat Festival. Choose from various fillings like pork, chicken, or red bean to delight friends and family.

As you plan your trip to China, consider aligning your visit with these vibrant festivals to experience the country’s culture, traditions, and warm hospitality. Additionally, offering thoughtful gifts during these festivals will enrich your experience and create lasting memories of your time in China.

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1. Duolingo

Duolingo’s gamified approach to language learning makes it a favourite among users. The app offers interactive lessons, vocabulary exercises, and pronunciation practice for Mandarin Chinese learners. With its bite-sized lessons and progress tracking, Duolingo keeps learners motivated and engaged.

2. HelloChinese

HelloChinese is a dedicated app for learning Mandarin Chinese. It provides comprehensive lessons covering vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures. The app’s interactive exercises, audio pronunciation, and writing practice contribute to a well-rounded language learning experience. Grab HelloChinese here!

3. Pleco

Pleco is an essential Chinese-English dictionary app for Mandarin learners. With a vast database of characters, words, and example sentences, Pleco is a valuable resource for understanding Chinese characters and meanings. The app also offers character recognition and stroke order animations. Get Pleco now!

4. Tandem

Tandem connects language learners with native Mandarin speakers for authentic language practice. Through text, voice calls, and video chats, learners can engage in real conversations, improving their speaking and listening skills. Tandem also fosters cultural exchange and networking opportunities. Download Tandem.

5. Anki

Anki is a powerful flashcard app that allows users to create personalized decks for vocabulary and character practice. Its spaced repetition algorithm ensures effective vocabulary retention, making it a useful tool for reinforcing Mandarin Chinese knowledge. Get Anki now!

6. Memrise:

Memrise focuses on vocabulary building and memorization through interactive games and quizzes. The app offers a variety of Mandarin Chinese courses created by users, making it a diverse and engaging platform for language learning. Download Memrise here!

7. LingoDeer

LingoDeer is designed specifically for Asian language learners, including Mandarin Chinese. Its well-structured lessons cover grammar, vocabulary, and sentence patterns. The app’s user-friendly interface and interactive exercises make it suitable for learners of all levels. Grab LingoDeer now!

8. Drops

Drops offers visually appealing and fast-paced language learning through word games. The app introduces essential Mandarin Chinese words and phrases with vibrant visuals and audio pronunciation, making vocabulary acquisition enjoyable and effective. Get Drops now.

9. ChineseSkill

ChineseSkill uses game-based learning to help beginners grasp Mandarin Chinese. The app covers topics like greetings, numbers, and everyday phrases. Its visual aids and audio pronunciation make language learning engaging for newcomers. Click here!

10. HelloTalk

HelloTalk is a language exchange app that connects learners with native speakers for language practice. Through text, voice messages, and voice calls, users can engage in real conversations, enhancing their speaking and listening skills while experiencing cultural exchange. Get HelloTalk here!

In conclusion, these top 10 free apps for learning Mandarin Chinese provide a wide range of resources for language learners. From interactive lessons and vocabulary practice to language exchange with native speakers, these apps offer comprehensive language learning experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming to enhance your Mandarin proficiency, these apps can be valuable companions on your language-learning journey. Embrace the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese with these fantastic free apps, including the immersive language exchange provided by HelloTalk.

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1. Introduction to Mandarin Chinese

Mandarin Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world, with over a billion speakers. It belongs to the Sino-Tibetan language family and uses characters (hanzi) for writing. While Mandarin has four tones, mastering pronunciation is essential for accurate communication.

2. Basic Greetings and Introductions

Hello: 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)
How are you?: 你好吗？(Nǐ hǎo ma?)
I’m fine, thank you: 我很好，谢谢。(Wǒ hěn hǎo, xièxiè.)
What is your name?: 你叫什么名字？(Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?)
My name is…: 我叫… (Wǒ jiào…)

3. Numbers and Counting

1: 一 (Yī)
2: 二 (Èr)
3: 三 (Sān)
10: 十 (Shí)
100: 一百 (Yī bǎi)
1000: 一千 (Yī qiān)
How much is this?: 这个多少钱？(Zhège duōshǎo qián?)
I want…: 我想要… (Wǒ xiǎng yào…)

4. Basic Phrases for Travel

Where is the bathroom?: 厕所在哪里？(Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)
How to go to…?: 去…怎么走？(Qù… zěnme zǒu?)
Excuse me: 对不起 (Duìbùqǐ)
Thank you: 谢谢 (Xièxiè)
Goodbye: 再见 (Zàijiàn)

5. Food and Dining

Rice: 米饭 (Mǐfàn)
Noodles: 面条 (Miàntiáo)
Water: 水 (Shuǐ)
Tea: 茶 (Chá)
I want to order…: 我想点… (Wǒ xiǎng diǎn…)

6. Time and Dates

Today: 今天 (Jīntiān)
Tomorrow: 明天 (Míngtiān)
Monday: 星期一 (Xīngqīyī)
January: 一月 (Yī yuè)
What time is it?: 现在几点了？(Xiànzài jǐ diǎn le?)

7. Basic Grammar

Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) word order: 我爱你 (Wǒ ài nǐ) – I love you.
Use “的 (de)” to indicate possession: 我的书 (Wǒ de shū) – My book.

8. Introduction to Pinyin

Pinyin is the Romanization system used to represent Mandarin sounds in the Latin alphabet. It’s essential for pronunciation practice and language learning. The accents above the letters denote the direction of the tone, i.e., which of the four tones to use when saying the word.

9. Introduction to Simplified Chinese Characters

Simplified Chinese characters were introduced to promote literacy in China. They are used in mainland China, Singapore, and Malaysia. We’ll provide examples of commonly used characters for practice.

Remember, learning Mandarin Chinese takes time and practice. Practice speaking, writing, and listening regularly. Immerse yourself in Chinese media and culture, and consider finding language exchange partners or enrolling in language classes for additional support. Happy learning! 加油! (Jiāyóu!) – Keep it up!

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So for Chinese students selecting the UK to study, this bears a huge financial commitment for their families. It must be a bracing culture shock, too. So then, why shouldn’t this happen more the other way around? Despite recent post-COVID stumbling blocks, the Chinese economy has boomed over recent years, and the country’s influence has ramped up a notch or two. So that means that the Chinese language is now a top-three global language. Well, as it happens, this is a scenario playing out more and more, as China welcomes an increasing number of overseas students into its education system each year. With over 3,000 universities and colleges throughout the most populous country in the world, lately, we’ve been seeing Chinese universities make their way into the global rankings. As an example, topuniversities.com’s World University Employability Ranking table’s top ten features two Chinese universities: Beijing’s Tsinghua University at number 6 and the University of Hong Kong stands at number 10.

“Step outside of your comfort zone”, they say, and that’s exactly what thousands and thousands of Chinese students do each year when they go overseas to European and American universities to study. So why not adopt a similar philosophy if you’re British? Not only is the Chinese education system one of the best in the world, but the overall benefits to be had from studying in China are greater than you might initially think. Here are just some of the benefits of studying in China:

Tuition Fees

In the UK, British students pay hefty tuition fees. Some means-tested fees are reduced, but there’s no such thing as a free or cheap education anymore. And we all feel the burden as the cost of living skyrockets in the UK, especially since (swear words approaching) Brexit and the war in Ukraine.

In China, tuition fees are remarkably lower. In some cases, you might expect to pay a fifth of what you’d be paying in the UK. Tier one cities will be higher, but tier two cities will surprise you.

The Chinese Education System

The Chinese education system is not standardised and varies from province to province. But its generally quite good. Go to wealthier provinces like Zhejiang, which boasts great universities in Hangzhou, Wenzhou and Ningbo, and you’ll be studying within well-funded, modern learning establishments for a lot less money.

Universities are well-kept, orderly and clean. The main difference is possibly the teaching style which tends to be less group-structured and a little more ‘drilling’ based. Students can be less challenged, not as willing to contribute to debating and adopt less lateral thinking. However, these are things that you can of course contribute and excel in. But other than that, you’ll enjoy a quality, well-planned curriculum, professionally delivered lessons and by generally passionate teachers. Teachers in China are respected, get paid comparatively handsomely and enjoy a comfortable standard of living. In other words, it’s a good job in China.

Cost of Living

So after tuition fees are considered, accommodation comes next. Student accommodation is abundant, modern and affordable. But if you want to go it alone, you can expect to rent a two-bedroom apartment in a good area for under £200 per month. In a city the size of London. And we all know that a similar property would set you back six times that in the UK’s capital, before any other overheads.

Most grocery shopping items are cheaper, except strangely, cosmetics and bathroom items which tend to cost more than in Europe.

Dining out will not only expand your palate’s diversity but will be far kinder on your wallet, too. A comparative meal out in a tier two city (maybe tier 3), like Wenzhou, will cost around one-third of its UK counterpart. Broad statement alert: The Chinese take food seriously. They eat well and expect quality dining and service. Keep clear of the tourist track and you’ll enjoy authentic, great-value food at superb prices.

Travel is crazily affordable, thanks to the transport system remaining state-owned. Busses, trains and undergrounds are modern, cheap and reliable. Add great air conditioning, and what more do you need?

Chinese Insight

The world’s factory, the second-largest economy, a diverse and different-in-any-ways culture, yet a country on the rise that echoes some familiarity with the US. That’s a juxtaposition you might notice. American culture is everywhere in China, from the dance to music, and English writing on clothing, cars and fast food joints, yet the media goes out of its way to portray America as evil at every opportunity. Understanding how business relationships, Chinese culture, travel, law and politics work can only be a huge, mind-expanding benefit.

Understanding Chinese social and business cultures is a real benefit too! Business is China is conducted in a more ‘guanxi’ or ‘relationship’ manner and, believe me when I say that this is an unbiased comment: There is no hospitality like Chinese hospitality. Chinese hosts look after you. It will be a challenge to pay for a meal. It can even get combative. But you’ll soon learn little tricks to pay your way, like pretending to go to the toilet, except with your phone, in no time.

So if you’re considering your next move academically, think outside the box. Why bankrupt yourself in the UK when you could save thousands and thousands of pounds by studying in China? But what about the language, I hear you ask. 1: Learning Chinese is not as challenging as people often say. It’s a homogenous language with one set of grammar rules, and 2: A lot of professional lectures are conducted in English. Plus, at the university level, there are a lot of English-speaking students and lecturers. But come on, learn Chinese! It will benefit you throughout your life.

Global Connections

Chinese universities attract students from all over the country, but from a lot of Global South countries, too. So expect to make some good connections, not only in China but with people from India and also Pakistan. There are a lot of students from African countries and you might encounter the odd American for good measure, too.

Life is all about networking, right? Chinese universities and the surrounding areas will provide you superb opportunities to connect with potential affiliates, clients and suppliers, or even just some great friends.

Better International Understanding

As per the last section, seeing and understanding world events from another perspective is balancing. Meeting people from diverse and varied countries is mind-expanding, as well as educational and enjoyable.  After your Chinese education, you’ll be internationally employable, having proved your ability to adapt and flourish in very different lands and situations. And you’ll possess internationally-recognised qualifications. So perhaps looking outside your comfort zone is a good thing? I think so. Look into Chinese universities. The benefits are vast.

If you’re planning a trip to China, make sure you get the best flight, travel and hotel deals. Try Trip.com now!

The post We’re Used to Chinese Students, But What About Chinese Universities? appeared first on British Panda.

Having taught at a Chinese university, developed a circle of local Chinese friends, and I am fostering a relationship with a local female, it’s apparent that most humour is universal. However, the following scenarios are three outright “humour fails” I uncomfortably endured in my first year in China:

1: Where Can I Buy These?

Within a food hall set on university grounds in Zhejiang province, students were handing out narcotics-awareness literature. The pamphlets featured images of illegal drugs, with bullet points highlighting the health and legal implications of why you should not touch them, plus some information on health contacts. On being handed one, I browsed through the printout enthusiastically, pretending it was a menu. Showing interest in the contents, I exclaimed to the group in Chinese, “Awesome! Where can buy these?”

Straight away, a member of the group began talking to me quickly in a heated fashion. I stated in Chinese that I was joking, and thankfully another member of her entourage reiterated my comments back to her and she disengaged from me and continued handing out her anti-drugs literature.

2: New Wife

I was in a Wenzhou suburb, near the University Town, dining in a locals’ local restaurant. There are very few foreigners living in the entire city, let alone the suburb we were dining in. Naturally, I was the only foreigner in the restaurant, and therefore, heads were turning. The staff were friendly, yet inquisitive. So one waitress; a personable, 50-something local lady, asked if I was my girlfriend’s husband, to which I replied “Ta shi wo xing de lao por”, or “she’s my new wife”. After two bottles of the local beer, it seemed an amusing thing to say. “NEW wife?”, she asked. She then began a semi-confusing rant about foreigners coming to China for wives. No number of stating “wo zai kai wan xiao” (I’m joking), would initially pacify her.

3: He Looks Like a Sweaty Toad

Tip of the day: Just don’t joke about the Chinese leadership. It’s not like poking fun or deriding Boris, Liz, et al.

Alighting a subway train, a huge poster of a prominent Chinese political figure adorned the adjacent wall. In fairness, it wasn’t a flattering photograph. So speaking my mind, I observingly asserted that he looked like a sweating toad. Not terribly loudly, but loud enough for my girlfriend to stop me, and in all seriousness, she grabbed my collars and pulled me up to her face. Slowly, in an ominous monotonal voice, she said, “Shut… up. Do that again, and we’re going home”. As the sobering reality of her reaction sank in, I realised that perhaps it wasn’t a great idea to publicly deride Chinese leaders, or drink two beers before going out. Double Deer is an extremely good local beer. Double “Oh Dear” the following day it seems.

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In all honesty, there’s not a huge amount of “bad: when it comes to Wenzhou, but in the name of balance, honesty and integrity, we need to examine all aspects of the city for a fair, justified representation. So, here are some of the pros and cons of Wenzhou: the good and bad aspects and elements of the city.

Pro: Size

If like me you hail from a small country like the UK, you might find the size of Wenzhou rather comforting. By Chinese standards it’s a small city, yet is home to a similar population size as London. So in this author’s opinion, it’s huge. However, you can get anywhere on a bus in around an hour, you can cycle into the centre fro0m the outskirts in an hour to an hour and a half.

Con: The Weather

Having lived in Bangkok and visited Singapore, I understand what humidity feels like. Wenzhou is roasting! I find it unbearable most of the time. Move closer toward the foot of the mountains and I believe it feels more humid. From June to October, there’s little relief, other than staying huddled around one’s aircon units. Venturing outside spells wet clothing, sunburn and general suffering. Tip: Venture west into Wencheng and you can find mountain retreats at circa 1000 metres elevation. The temperature sits around the lower 30s and hotels don’t even have air conditioning, it’s that comfortable. More on this to come!

Pro: The Food

Wenzhounese food is a delight. It’s healthy because seafood is plentiful, and it’s light and easy. Expensive in the UK, but oysters are cheap here and served steamed or barbecued. Either way, they’re healthy and delicious. Fish head is also popular here too, served in a light, yet often hot soup. Although a waste product in the UK, the head holds a lot of soft, fatty meat, and the head is often accompanied by strips of the body. Watch out for bones, though! Crab season is a real treat. The extra cost is well worth it, though!

Con: The Local Dialect

I can’t say I wasn’t warned. People would tell me before I arrived in China that Wenzhou-Hua is the most difficult of Chinese dialects. My first encounter with it was walking home late one night. I overheard some guys who’d had a drink or two. I thought to myself: “Have I entered a Russian area? What are they speaking?” The speech patterns often bear little resemblance to Mandarin and the sounds “du” and “gu” are repeated, often only subtly differentiated. However, resist it as you might, you’ll pick up a few bits and pieces, such as “vagaynang”, which is “why guo ren”, or “foreigner”, which they have no hesitation to say to your face.

Pro: Tourist Attractions

There is so much to do in Wenzhou. Starting with the Oujiang River: Walk towards Qidu Island and you can enjoy the promenade. The residential area becomes expensive, and with it comes some higher-end restaurants. Turn back upriver, and the next island is Jiangxin Island. This pretty island offers delightful grassed areas to picnic on and is home to an exemplary Buddhist temple, as well as the beautifully-maintained ex-British Consulate building.

Jiushan Park boasts a stunning Pagoda, and Jingshan (Gold Mountain) Park will take you up the mountains for some wonderful sights. There are a number of other mountain spots. The whole of Zhejiang province is stunning. However, my favourite was the west of the city in Wencheng County. Yuelao Mountain had it all: stunning views, delightful trails, and the aforementioned cooler weather, thanks to its elevation.

If you’re wanting to experience the sea more, then venture east towards Dongtoa. The island chain is home to some 100,000-plus people, and it’s the main island where a lot of city folk like to pick up a second home or escape for a break.

Con: Personal Space

This is a cultural thing. In the UK, we guard our personal space. In fact, of all European countries, the British are possibly the most “standoffish”. In Wenzhou, people stand up close to you and walk in front of you, and this same relationship with personal space extends to the roads. There’s a feeling of “just in time” avoidance of accidents, rather than the general maintenance of distance n the UK.

Pro: Hospitality

Many countries are known for their treatment of guests, but being a travelled person, I’ve not experienced hospitality like Wenzhou hospitality. People go out of their way to ensure you feel welcome, and drinks and food will always be offered. You won’t physically be able to pay for a meal unless you learn the tricks the locals employ. Assuming you lose the first round of “let me get this”, then it’s sure that it will take you some time until you pick up on the “nipping to the toilet trick”, or the “I’m just going outside to take this call rouse”.

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