I know that we currently live in an expat "bubble". Our lives are completely different than the local citizens here, we enjoy many privileges that most citizens do not and on the flip side, we are subject to daily frustrations that the locals are not. When Danny and I were contemplating moving to China we spent a day with an expat "counselor" who helped us to see how we would each deal with living in a foreign country and how we could help each other through the highs and lows. I was fully aware at that time that given the choice between going to a local gym and one that catered to foreigners, I would quickly choose the foreigners' gym - no question! Danny on the other hand was more hesitant with his choice. After almost 15 months, I'm pretty sure he would no longer hesitate and pick the foreigners' gym. We live in this expat "bubble" because it is easier and we relate so well to the others' within it. But every once in a while, I get the urge to really see what life is like in China. I don't want to go back to the US with only a romanticized view of China, I want to also, in my own way, see what is "real"!
On my reality hunt, I decided to walk to one of the import grocery stores in Tianjin and put money on my cell phone. It is about a mile walk and I enjoyed seeing the many things I miss when I am trapped in the car. I could freely take pictures and watch what others were doing. Of course, I was stared at and asked several times where I was from, but besides that, I got to enjoy my walk in peace!
This is the import store that has a pretty good selection of western goods and organic milk here!
Who would have thought that you can get another set of keys made right on the street!!
This is a typical sidewalk in Tianjin, it is nice until out of nowhere there is a big hole! I guess that's why all of the guidebooks suggested not bringing strollers here!
This is the entryway to one of the fruit and vegetable markets in our area. Once your nose gets accustomed to the smell, it is fascinating!!
Most bike shops are located right on the sidewalk!
On my reality hunt, I decided to walk to one of the import grocery stores in Tianjin and put money on my cell phone. It is about a mile walk and I enjoyed seeing the many things I miss when I am trapped in the car. I could freely take pictures and watch what others were doing. Of course, I was stared at and asked several times where I was from, but besides that, I got to enjoy my walk in peace!
This is the import store that has a pretty good selection of western goods and organic milk here!Who would have thought that you can get another set of keys made right on the street!!This is a typical sidewalk in Tianjin, it is nice until out of nowhere there is a big hole! I guess that's why all of the guidebooks suggested not bringing strollers here!This is the entryway to one of the fruit and vegetable markets in our area. Once your nose gets accustomed to the smell, it is fascinating!! Most bike shops are located right on the sidewalk!This is a daily scene throughout the city...typically men, playing mahjong.
When I do burst out of my bubble, I find that my compassion grows more and more for this country!!
No comments:
Post a Comment