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.

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Sunset

It looks pretty, but it's -6C outside. Heading to Philippines in a week for some vacay

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Nailed it

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Rubik's

And my first New Year's Resolution is finished

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Happy New Year from Beijing, China!

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So you wanna be a baller..

This guy is literally too cool for school.

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Happy New Year!

New Year's in Beijing was terrific! Happy 2016 everyone!

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Last sunset of 2015

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year from Beijing!

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Runway show

Tsinghua's gymnasium is constantly being used for events, one such was for the fashion show last week, which I assume was only available on tv due to the lack of live audience members

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Biang

This is the most complicated character in Mandarin, constisting of around 56 strokes. It's a type of noodle (noodle dish?)

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Chem lab explosion

A chemistry lab on Tsinghua campus exploded the other day with a reported death. Haven't been back to see it all patched up

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Last photos from Christmas '15

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Oh Christmas Tree

Christmas tree from Guanghua School of Management, Peking University

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Christmas 3

"My girlfriend doesn't let me go out often, but when I do, I'm a god damn loose cannon" as my buddy unnecessarily stated. At one point I remember seeing him on stage, turning around and then loudly asking "Where did he get a tambourine?!" The live band was great and nice to see a bunch of Westerners out and about for Christmas in China.

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Christmas 2

Had a quick poker game after dinner, raising the blinds every 15 minutes, which in hindsight did speed the game up but wasn't the bet way to play

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Christmas

Christmas in Beijing this year was by far the best one I've had. My buddy (Englishman in the hideous jumper) hosted and cooked, we did a big gift exchange, and all came together as the pollution outside soared well above the 500 AQI limit. Happy holidays from China!

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National Library

National Library of China was architecturally beautiful. Didn't have my passport so couldn't venture too deep inside. Also these blood donation vans come out during Christmas. I've yet to donate because I keep hearing it's not safe here in Beijing

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Chongqing

Found a Chongqing restaurant and it was super tasty. First picture is beef noodles and second is jiaozi, served in hot water, compared to the strained jiaozi that are served here in the north.