It was many months in the making, but on Monday, February 14 my wife and I stepped off the airplane in Shanghai after a long 14 1/2 hours flight. Almost two days have passed and we have accomplished much. We have reviewed the apartment we would like to rent for the next two years and the contract is being reviewed by the company I work for, we have opened a bank account in one of China’s biggest banks, my employment visa is in the works, my wife just got her China cell/mobile phone and tomorrow we start a two day cultural awareness training.
Weather has been cold, but not as cold as Indiana. Food continues to be a challenge for us; well, more for my wife Bethe than for me. As I originally come from Peru – South America, eating what Americans would consider strange is not such a big deal with me. However, there are some interesting uses of edible resources in China, but who am I to critique? Let’s face it, they have been around for a lot longer than any other race on record, so they must be doing many things right.
What has been most noticeable so far? I think all Chinese nationals we have come in contact with are very nice and willing to help you even though most do not speak english. They do love to speak as much English as they know, which is so much better than the two or three words in Chinese I know. Lot’s of credit to them for learning what should be avery strange language to them. I hope to to do my best in learning at least the basics of Mandarin since I consider it a sign of respect to at least make the effort. Below are a few pictures from the last two days. Not much sightseeing yet, too busy getting situated.
Please note that you can make comments at the end of each post if you like. A great way to make this blog an interactive experience for all that venture into it.
We visited a mall near the hotel we are staying in. Much like any other nice mall found in the US.
Yes! All is well; Best Buy is in China. We ended buying my wife's phone in this one; like the fact that several spoke enough English to ensure we understood what we were buying.
Happy Virus...?
The gelato looked real good; must return and try some real soon.
One example of how they keep everything so clean.
A New Year display, not sure what it represents.
Seems like this store "borrowed" Dunkin Donuts colors...
Yes, they do have pet stores. They do not eat dogs in China; at least not in this store since it would be very bad for business.
.
.
My wife; very happy to taste familiar flavors!