What am I actually seeing? Like I mentioned in the previous post, this destination more than any other, requires prior research, setting up apps, banking, and logistics before arrival. Part of that research was the hotel of course. I prioritize first, one where I know the front desk staff speaks a little English. The other reason for this hotel? The location. Here are my first impressions of Chengdu China from the neighbourhood of an ancient temple.
Movie Set
I can’t believe my eyes. It’s like I walk out from my humble hotel and into that of a movie set. Let me explain. Picture dark carved wood, Chinese architecture, bamboo, bicycle powered food carts, temperate climate. Monks strolling down the street. Tea houses, boutique shops. I am completely enchanted within minutes. How is it possible that this magical place is my first introduction into China? I am truly blessed.
Clean
Not sparkling and manicured like Japan for example, but clean. There are no errant smells of sewage or urine, no overfilled garbage cans. No plant litter all over the sidewalks. Its actually lovely and free of debris. There are workers everywhere, tending to boulevard gardens and trees, picking up things blown into the gutter.
Food
Its everywhere! Makes me wonder how this much food can be available, but then I remember I’m in the land of millions and billions of people. Of course there will be this much food. And it seems very affordable to me. Readers who know just how frugal my budget is can extrapolate that when I make a comment like that, its saying something. I will be able to dine out here, enjoy the street food. Taste many things, which is always such a pleasure.
Green
From research, I knew this province called Sichuan was going to be lush and green, but its really green. Dark green. You see, Chengdu sits in a basin and has near 250 days of the year with white overcast skies. In fact, its white sky right now. This would normally turn me right off, but I’ll be here for such a short duration, I can handle no sunshine if that is the case.
Something very special comes with this destination and we will be discovering that on another day. Suffice to say, the climate and lushness is what creates the perfect environment for these creatures to thrive.
The more I explore my neighbourhood the more I fall in love with this place. Feeling very lucky indeed, that I have selected this part of the city for my stay. Yes, there is a modern area, and the city centre, but I needed something calmer. I knew that would be a better fit for me, so this old part of the city works perfectly. Did I mention I’m ecstatic to be in China?
