2 weeks in Nanxun

Even in my second week in China, there was still a lot to discover and learn about Nanxun and Huzhou.

In school, I noticed that the focus was heavily on mathematics, and second graders were already solving calculations that I would have struggled with in 3rd/4th grade.

In the mornings, we were delighted by the original labels at the breakfast buffet. I have attached my two favorite examples for you.

Our teaching assistants prepared several brief introductions to Chinese culture for us. So we were able to practice paper cutting, make our first acquaintance with calligraphy, and complete a crash course in Chi Gong.

Among other things, we visited the famous Old Town of Nanxun, which was crowded with (Chinese) tourists during the day.

Fortunately, Felicia and I had the opportunity to return to the city with the teaching assistants in the evening and enjoy the city at night. This was truly an impressive experience. (See photos)

Unfortunately, I caught a cold in the second week. So, if you were wondering what the answer to 'I have a cold, headache, and I don't feel capable of teaching 150 children' is, you don't have to wait any longer. The answer was as follows: 3 hours in the hospital, a blood test with evaluation, and a lot of Chinese medication, with which I could have opened my own pharmacy. At least I was allowed to stay in the hotel for a day and rest a bit.

More or less unwell, I made it through the last few days and said goodbye to the students after an extensive photo session. The separation from Tom was a bit more emotional as we had grown quite attached to each other in these two weeks.

We had our last meal with all the teachers in a special hotpot restaurant. The service left nothing to be desired! You got everything from toys, towels, glasses cleaning cloth, hair tie, entertainment, to a hand massage, everything was included 😍👌

The time in Nanxun was truly a special experience, and I'm glad I took this step. But now I am ready to continue traveling and I am looking forward to exploring the rest of China!🔎