Surprise and connection

Kim Marie Bausen said she adapted to the new environment quickly: "Upon arriving in Chengdu, the dense high-rises both amazed and slightly overwhelmed me. However, vibrant shops, night streets, and warm-hearted people quickly eased my worries. The Chinese strike me as exceptionally hospitable and respectful. A standout memory is a ten-minute conversation with a local girl in Chengdu's old town, during which I learnt about her daily life, and her views on China and Germany. It showed our commonalities despite cultural differences."

Alexandru Sorin Ujvari described a sense of familiarity: "It's my third visit to China. I'm even more captivated—whether seeing pandas or savoring Sichuan cuisine. China no longer feels foreign; it's like a second home. I'm adapting culturally and linguistically, and finding familiarity in small things: overfilled water bottles spilling when opened, unique toilet designs, or a growing love for spicy food."

Ilja Gutelewitsch reflected on his first impressions: "The people, the food, and the culture presented a completely new world to me. Yet Chinese culture impressed me with its depth and history. In temples and historical sites, I felt a strong connection to tradition and spirituality. Respect for rituals permeates daily life, while the blend of modernity and tradition is fascinating. Cities are vibrant, full of skyscrapers, malls, and crowds, yet historical roots are palpable everywhere."

Eugen Mangazeev, who has lived and studied in China said the country's energy, depth and warmth constantly surprise him: "My China isn't about skyscrapers or megacities—it's sitting on red plastic stools in a Chengdu alley, surrounded by best friends around a wobbly table. China is not just places but experiences. Rituals like tapping the table lightly when pouring beer—a sign of thanks—reveal the mutual respect in Chinese culture. I love discovering such nuances; they showcase cultural layers and growth through openness. China has become my second home—a place where I've built a career and, more importantly, shaped my character. Here, I feel alive, inspired, sometimes challenged—but always welcome."