Embarking on a journey to a foreign land is more than just a physical exploration; it's an immersion into the heart and soul of a new culture. Such was my experience during a leisure and study trip to China, where every facet of this vibrant country left an indelible mark on my heart and mind. As I reminisce about my Journalism Exchange Program in China, the memories of Chengdu stand out like a beacon, a testament to the genuine warmth and hospitality that define the Chinese people.
It's been a month since I bid farewell to China, yet the memories linger, refusing to fade away. The allure isn't just about the country's remarkable development; it's about the profound love and connection forged with its people. At the heart of this journey lies an encounter in Chengdu, a city that continues to evoke a mix of emotions.
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, beckoned me in September 2023, offering an opportunity to explore its vibrant streets, savour its renowned spicy cuisine, and soak in the culture that permeates every corner. While I've shared glimpses of this trip before, there's a story I inadvertently omitted—a story that captures the essence of my connection with the local people of Chengdu.
In the heart of the night, amidst the spice-infused air, my Fijian journalist companion, John Shetty, and I found ourselves in need of a remedy for Chengdu's spicy delights. The quest for curd led us to a small store near our hotel, and what transpired next became a tale I'm eager to share.
After securing our curd and indulging in some digestive relief with a bottle of soda, we decided to take a leisurely stroll towards the food street near the lake. The vibrant scenes of locals enjoying spicy delicacies painted a lively picture, and our presence as fair-skinned foreigners drew surprised looks.
As the night unfolded, our group received a message about an early departure for the next trip. Seizing the moment, John and I, joined only by our curiosity, set out across a small, beautiful white bridge towards our hotel on the other side of the lake. Little did we know that this stroll would lead to an encounter that would redefine our understanding of hospitality.
Two Chinese boys and girls appeared on the bridge, and a simple inquiry about our origin sparked a delightful conversation. Identifying ourselves as Pakistanis, we were bestowed with a term unfamiliar until that moment—Pathia, or Iron Brothers, signifying the strong friendship between Pakistan and China.
Amidst handshakes and introductions, the Chinese locals extended a heartfelt invitation for dinner, expressing genuine warmth that we couldn't refuse. We found ourselves at a restaurant on the food street by the lake, surrounded by the aroma of spicy delights.
Despite having already eaten, we were welcomed to join them for traditional Chinese tea. Seated around the table, a translator app and WeChat became our bridge, enabling communication for an enchanting one-and-a-half-hour conversation that traversed our countries, cultures, and personal anecdotes.
As the clock struck half past one in the night, a young man approached our table, offering a packet of pencils for sale. Politely refusing, we were surprised when one of our newfound friends insisted on gifting them to me, expressing a desire for positive stories about China and its people.
Promising honesty in my writing, I left the restaurant with a gift that symbolized the goodwill of that night. The lengthy conversation, conducted without a shared language, was a testament to the universal language of smiles, laughter, and shared joy. It was a night that brought me closer to the hearts of the Chinese people, shattering preconceived notions and fostering a genuine connection.
Before this encounter, my perceptions of Chinese people were coloured by stereotypes of reserve and pride in their developed nation. However, that night in Chengdu proved me wrong, revealing a warmth and openness that I hadn't anticipated.
In the aftermath of this transformative meeting, I found myself agreeing to meet local people in China on several occasions, each encounter deepening my appreciation for the rich tapestry of Chinese hospitality. As I pen down these memories, I can't help but feel a longing for China—a place that, through its people, left an indelible mark on my journey and my heart.