2024-11 - Chengdu, China

Chengdu Wenjun Courtyard Hotel

CHINA, PART 2:

I'm comfortable in China. I like it a lot. The government has done an amazing job making it (the parts I've seen: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Chengdu) so liveable, functional, and harmonious. I just need to learn Mandarin.

Self-censorship applies even to saying nice things about the government. Talking with a stranger in the park, he said Chengdu has a good local government, very well-run. Then he asked what I do. I said I'm a writer, and he said, "Don't print what I said! We can't talk to foreigners about the government." I said, "But it was all good!" He made the "my lips are sealed" motion with his hands, and we changed the subject. That said, many others were quite proud to tell me that they are happy with the way things are run, so maybe the only fear was that the pride would be misunderstood abroad and out of context?

The cultural focus on money is honest. One woman joked, "We don't wish each other good health, just good fortune!" It makes sense. Cultures where it's taboo to talk about money can also seem non-sensical, since money is a major issue in almost everyone's life. Why not be open about it?

CHENGDU:

Chengdu is the farthest-west big city in China, and one that many told me is more laid-back, more creative, more artistic, better quality of life. People move here for the lifestyle.

Immediately I see the big difference from Shenzhen. Organic city with lots of history, old people, and really feels 100% like China. So much more hanging out in the park, talking in tea shops, little marketplace alleyway streets.

A Chengdu local said she finds people in Shenzhen much quieter, friendlier, and more generous than people here. But most said people here are happier because they are less stressed by work.

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