More than two weeks into China and I have a better sense of what it represents. Although sometimes challenging to adapt to cultural differences, I am a firsthand witness at how many facts that western people acknowledge about China are not based on reality but simple prejudice.
While there are some major contrasts in wealth and opportunity reflected in the Chinese people, China does portray developing cities of the future. I have never seen more modern architecturally ground-breaking office building, malls, airports. They are all at a different level of modernity. Take the CCTV headquarter building in Beijing, with its intricate design. The wow factor is definitely there. Although it may be argued they were recently build either for to the Beijing Olympics or due to massive influx of funds in a major growing economy, I do not see the same in the western countries, therefore the argument fails.
So far I have survived a massive allergy from the air that lasted about 4 days, a taxi car accident, hence Shanghai reminds me of New York (times 10), can now eat rice, salad and big dumplings only with chopsticks, can order in Chinese, had plenty of local and street food without any issues and have had my picture taken several times by the locals. I must look quite amusing since they stare; some of them at least.
What I find hard, still, are the little things. Not having a good cup of coffee when I need one, instead drinking tea all the time; slow Internet; no AC in some places; the daily adventures of avoiding being hit by a bicycle/scooter/car; last but not least, the pollution. You can see it clearly, it’s there and it’s gray.
But when I see a beautiful Chinese baby girl, all smiles and pretty ribbons, it all goes away. She looks just like a doll.
