2016 was a year that brought many foreign visitors to China, including myself. As a foreigner, I was excited to explore all that China had to offer and see how the country had advanced since my previous visit. After spending several months in China, I can say that I was thoroughly impressed with the country and its people.
One of the first things that struck me about China was the incredible infrastructure. The buildings, roads, and transportation systems were all top-notch and far superior to anything I had seen in my home country. The high-speed trains, in particular, were a marvel to behold. I was able to traverse the country in a matter of hours, visiting multiple cities and experiencing the diverse cultures that China has to offer.
Another aspect of China that I was impressed with was the food. Chinese cuisine is simply delicious, and with hundreds of different regional dishes to choose from, I was spoilt for choice. Street food vendors offered some of the best and most affordable meals I had on my trip. Although there were certainly some dishes that required an acquired taste, overall the food in China exceeded my expectations in terms of quality, variety, and flavour.
While I was impressed with China's modernization and cuisine, what really stood out to me was the warmth and hospitality of the Chinese people. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, I found the locals to be incredibly welcoming and friendly. Many went out of their way to help me navigate my way around and make me feel at home. From the hotel staff to the street vendors, everyone I met was polite and helpful. It was a heartwarming experience and one that I will never forget.
Of course, China is not without its challenges. Pollution is a serious and ongoing issue, and it is clear that steps need to be taken to improve air and water quality. The traffic in the cities can also be overwhelming at times, and there are still aspects of Chinese culture that I do not fully understand or appreciate.
However, overall I left China with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable country. Its people, culture, and stunning natural landscapes left a lasting impression on me, and I hope to return soon to continue exploring this fascinating and dynamic corner of the world.
