China Surprised Me – A Journey Beyond Expectations
When I set out for China, I had a preconceived image in my mind – one of smog-filled skies, crowded streets, and a country that would be difficult to navigate. What I found was far from that. Instead, I discovered a clean, green, and modern country that completely surprised me at every turn.
In Beijing, I wandered through Tiananmen Square and explored the grandeur of the Forbidden City, its historical presence palpable in every corner. The Great Wall was an awe-inspiring sight, but the Hutong district stood out in a completely different way – quaint, traditional alleyways where the pace of life seemed to slow down.
Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors left me speechless with their silent, powerful presence, but it was the friendliness of the people that truly stayed with me. Everyone I met wanted to practice their English and hear about Australia, and if we looked confused or had issues with communication, locals would go out of their way to help. It wasn’t just the people; the cities were astonishing too. Tree-lined streets, greenery along the highways, manicured gardens – and no graffiti or rubbish in sight.
Our itinerary took an unexpected turn when the first typhoon to hit Shanghai since 1949 altered our plans. Instead of Shanghai, we travelled first to Hangzhou, where we cruised the serene West Lake and explored a tea plantation, a peaceful and fragrant escape from city life.
Suzhou, often referred to as the Venice of the East, was another gem. Cruising along the Grand Canal to the old town, beautifully decorated with lanterns, felt like stepping into a different world, one that still embraces its rich heritage amidst modern development.
Shanghai itself greeted us with another typhoon, bringing stormy weather, but that didn’t stop us from exploring the city's iconic sites – The Bund with its striking skyline, Xintiandi’s stylish precincts, Yuyuan Old Street’s bustling atmosphere, and the famous shopping stretch of Nanjing Road.
Despite the weather challenges, China turned out to be so much more than I expected – a blend of history and modernity, natural beauty, and urban sophistication. It’s a country that stays with you long after you’ve left.
I’m already planning my return. There’s still so much more to see – the giant pandas in Chengdu, and the stunning Nine Villages Valley, with its waterfalls, lakes, and pristine landscapes. China, with its endless surprises, is a destination I can't wait to explore again.
If China is on your list, I encourage you to look beyond the stereotypes.
You might just find yourself as pleasantly surprised as I was!
Travel experienced and written by Louise Carroll, Senior Travel Advisor, National Travel