China

Well, it’s been 2 weeks now that I’ve been in Beijing and I must admit, it hasn’t come without its challenges. I still have yet to adjust to some of the cultural differences and communication barriers. I’m also still coming to terms with the fact that the food will never taste the same as our oh so loved westernized cuisine. My stomach has still not forgiven me for trying some food last week of the U-people, one of the minority groups here in China. I’m also still trying to get used to the idea of no lineups. ???? If you want something, you just have to shove your way to the front to get it, and car lanes? Yeah, they don’t exist, so if you consider 10 million people here in Beijing all trying to get somewhere, well you can imagine that it’s not a pretty sight. I just close my eyes in the taxi so as not to scream at every turn.

I started Chinese language study my third day here and have been taking lessons 3 hours every morning. It’s not an easy language to learn, but I’m eager to learn as much as I can so that I might be able to communicate better with the locals. I’ve also started two English corners, one beginner and one advanced for students at the university campus. Both have been fun and interesting, as I’ve never done any sort of teaching before, so it’s been a learning experience for myself as well as for the students.

I have also gotten the opportunity to spend some time with a U-friend of mine which has been really nice. She’s taken me to a couple of the sights here in the city, including Summer Palace, Tian’anmen Square, and the Forbidden City. During our little day trips I’ve had to endure the experience of what I call the “Chinese Paparazzi”. Being tall, blond and fair skinned here automatically makes me someone to stare at and take pictures of. I have to admit, I’m definitely glad I’m not a celebrity because although it may seem flattering and fun, it’s actually more of an annoyance.

A few things that I’ve really enjoyed so far are the fact that everything’s so cheap! A bus ride is $0.20, a taxi ride is $3, I can buy a sandwich and a drink for $2, to name a few. At the market, the sellers try to grab you to buy their things, so it’s easy to bargain. Sometimes if you even give them a hint that you’re interested, but walk away, they’ll chase you down and offer such a low price that you want to buy their items just for that fact, not because you actually need it. That’s going to be one of the difficult things about going home because I’ll feel like nothing is worth what we pay for it in Canada. They also have McDonalds delivery here! How funny is that?!?! My leaders Matt & Jill have been fantastic! They’ve helped me so much to adjust and settle into the lifestyle here, which has been a huge blessing.

Next week I will continue with my language study and English corners before I head out to travel to other parts of China to meet up with other leaders. I’m not sure if any of you have heard, but my trip to XinJiang has been cancelled due to unrest in that part of the country. There are still on going issues and it is unsafe for any tourists to travel there.

I hope this update finds you all well, and for those in Vancouver, I hope you are enjoying the beautiful summer weather you’ve been having. I’m very jealous as it’s been very hot and smoggy here.