Returning to Cultivating Connections and Discovering Local Wonders

It is that time of the year again where Chinese New Year celebrations have come to a close. As a foreigner living in China, you now have the grand opportunity to continue your uniquely personal journey through this enchanting country.

Riding the Post-Holiday High

The exuberant thrill of Chinese New Year may have passed, but there is still plenty to do after the holiday. As life gets back to normal, seize this opportunity to immerse yourself further in the Chinese culture, traditions, and way of life.

Embrace the Local Culture

One of the significant aspects to delve into is the local culture. By now, you must be familiar with the traditional practices and grand festivities. However, there is more to discover. Engage with the locals, learn about their day-to-day lives, and grasp the Chinese language. If you have not already, consider learning Mandarin – it opens a world of intimate interactions and relationships.

Plan Weekend Getaways

China is a vast country with awe-inspiring geographical diversity. There are mountains, beaches, deserts, modern cities, and traditional villages. Each place has its own charm and reveals a different shade of China. Plan weekend getaways and explore these fascinating places. You might even discover some hidden gems!

Try Different Cuisines

The Chinese cuisine goes beyond the well-known Peking duck and dim sum. Each region has its unique dishes and snacks, all worth a try. Beijing roast duck, Yangzhou fried rice, Chengdu hotpot - just to mention a few. Tickle your taste buds with these mouth-watering delights and expand your culinary panorama of China.

Be an Active Community Member

Volunteering can be an excellent way to meet the local community and contribute towards a cause that you feel strongly about. Whether teaching English to children, providing care for elderly people or helping to protect the environment, your efforts will be well received and appreciated.

Keep Learning

The Chinese New Year Holiday has given you a glimpse of the traditional Chinese customs. Use this newly acquired knowledge to further explore and understand the mystique of this ancient culture. Enroll in a Chinese history or art course, join a local tea ceremony or Tai Chi class - the options are endless.

Setting up Life in China

If you are planning to live in China long-term, this is an excellent time to focus on creating your home away from home. From finding a comfortable and affordable place to live to identifying your preferred local markets for grocery shopping, setting up a routine can be immensely helpful in creating a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

The end of the Chinese New Year holiday period doesn't have to mean the end of excitement and opportunities for foreigners living in China. There are endless possibilities to further explore the Chinese culture, meet new people, learn the language, and embrace new experiences. So, savor this post-holiday period and make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse country.