Then, lunch was arranged for the students. It was made by the local people and we could see the process of making food. As we waited under the shade of trees, cool air made the environment even more beautiful. Nearby, there was a small river flowing. To this day, I remember the beautiful scent of air and nature. We played some local games and had a great fun. We went for a hike through the mountain and it was truly rewarding to be in nature. We stopped at different points to read the history and significance of certain places. It was very interesting and eye opening to see such beauty. Local people helped us in visiting different sites by cars decorated with beautiful flowers. We were mesmerized by the greenery and nature. Everywhere we looked, we were met with the high mountains and cool air. It was such a contrast to the city life but we had great time. What made this tour special, was the attention of our teachers. They helped us every step of the way and guided us. They worked tirelessly and selflessly to make sure that we were comfortable. It was very thoughtful of them to take care of our food. I know it takes a lot of effort to arrange the specific kind of food for some of us foreign students eat. Our teachers never once complained. They made sure that we got the appropriate food at the appropriate time. During the travel, we were given different kind of snacks. We were so pleased by the efforts of our teachers. Whenever we faced a problem, they helped us without any hesitation. I remember it very clearly that they took great care of what was served on our table. It was the month of Ramadan. The kind gestures of our teachers will forever be etched in our memories. It made us understand the hospitality at a deeper level and appreciate the importance of communication.
This picture is also of our trip. Before we went back to our hotels, the teachers took us to a local place where everyone was enjoying to the beat of the music. That was a very memorable night for all of the students. The place was decorated by lights of different colours and different ornaments. The sky had turned dark but the centre of dancing floor was decorated very well. We could see the sparkling of lights as well as smell the aroma of food from hotels. The local people were dancing in a circle to a very beautiful and old song. The song changed every few minutes and everyone changed their dance steps. At first ,we stood outside the circle and stood watching the people dancing and laughing and enjoying the beauty of it. But as the night progressed, we found ourselves wanting to join them. So one by one, we all joined them and took part in their dance. Some people were dancing as if they do it every day while some were like us, trying to acclimate to the rhythm. It was a very memorable moment because in that moment all of us ,without any difference of country, culture and skin tone, we were dancing. We danced for almost an hour with the local people and had a great time getting to know their culture through this way. I think the best way to learn about a culture is to take part in it. There are so many things we learned from textbooks. But, what we learned from visiting these places, was priceless. Many people were watching , standing outside and clapping. It was very cheerful. The positive environment that China gives us is very beneficial for personal growth. That night, we got so much learn from the local people. We bonded with them over traditional Chinese songs and dance patterns. Every age group of people was included. My friends and I wandered through different beautifully decorated shops and streets. We bought the local ice cream and enjoyed it with the beautiful weather. Our teachers encouraged us to join and have fun. After the daily hectic routine of studying, it was such a relieving moment. We danced for so long but we never got tired. China has advanced so much in the field of technology but sometimes, such simple moments make China even more beautiful for us. We have heard a lot about China and it's beauty. But to witness it ourselves, is a totally different phenomenon. We were truly left speechless and mesmerized. It was like seeing China for the first time. It will always be a beautiful memory because that day we got to engage with people on a totally different level. Even though, at sometimes, we were not speaking their language, it felt like we understood each other completely. The people were very generous while guiding us where to go. At every turn, we met a new adventure. We go to see the hidden beauty of China. It was such a rewarding experience to go out and see the things that you don't see in daily life. Even though we had spent only one year in China, it felt like China was an old friend. |

