What a rich collection of experiences! If you had not kept a journal do you think you would remember all of these experiences? And if so, would you recall them exactly as you wrote them back then? You have included so many vivid details I feel I can envision each scenario. Thanks for sharing. - Julie
Thank you and apologies for the late response. If I had not kept a diary, I would not have remembered any of the details. I wish I had kept a better diary and written daily, all the little impressions and observations. Peter and I both wrote regularly to our parents during our time in China and I will be going back through them to patch together more stories. Thanks for commenting Julie!
When I was tutoring Chinese international students, they exposed me to many of their customs, traditions and ways of life. I ate meals with them and accepted their gifts - given with such sincerity and respect. It was nothing compared to your experience but this essay enriched that exposure for me. Lovely!
They have such respect for their teachers. When Peter travels to Beijing, one of his former students, now a successful tech exec in Shanghai, travels by train and stays overnight in a hotel, just to visit with him. Thanks for commenting! xx
Wonderful. So romantic. Did you keep a full journal of your trip? Some of us who did, so long ago, are again comparing notes. It might be interesting to have a round table or something of anglo types who went around the world, and either did or did not get an earring.
The writing is splendid, evocative, insidy and sensual. Thanks!
Henry, I did not keep a full journal of the trip. I have been keeping a diary since I was little but am disappointed that I did not keep track of all the details and observations over the years. I like your idea of a roundtable!
What a rich collection of experiences! If you had not kept a journal do you think you would remember all of these experiences? And if so, would you recall them exactly as you wrote them back then? You have included so many vivid details I feel I can envision each scenario. Thanks for sharing. - Julie
Thank you and apologies for the late response. If I had not kept a diary, I would not have remembered any of the details. I wish I had kept a better diary and written daily, all the little impressions and observations. Peter and I both wrote regularly to our parents during our time in China and I will be going back through them to patch together more stories. Thanks for commenting Julie!
Gorgeous! So evocative. Wish you would write that book of travel essays.
You're a darling! Thank you. Working on it!
When I was tutoring Chinese international students, they exposed me to many of their customs, traditions and ways of life. I ate meals with them and accepted their gifts - given with such sincerity and respect. It was nothing compared to your experience but this essay enriched that exposure for me. Lovely!
Dear Catherine,
They have such respect for their teachers. When Peter travels to Beijing, one of his former students, now a successful tech exec in Shanghai, travels by train and stays overnight in a hotel, just to visit with him. Thanks for commenting! xx
How about Travel Writers Anonymous? Even those who didn't keep a complete journal can sit around and fill in the blanks.
How would we set this up? I plan to open a Substack soon.
A monthly or quarterly meeting? Who's game?
Angela, it's always a thrill to get your mail in my inbox.
Let’s explore how…watch your inbox. xx
Dr D., what a wonderful, beautifullly written story!
Thank you dear Esther! Great to know you are here. xx
Wonderful. So romantic. Did you keep a full journal of your trip? Some of us who did, so long ago, are again comparing notes. It might be interesting to have a round table or something of anglo types who went around the world, and either did or did not get an earring.
The writing is splendid, evocative, insidy and sensual. Thanks!
Henry, I did not keep a full journal of the trip. I have been keeping a diary since I was little but am disappointed that I did not keep track of all the details and observations over the years. I like your idea of a roundtable!
Just woke up after 8+ luscious hours of sleep to read your essay with my morning coffee. What a wonderful story, masterfully told. Thank you!
Was it a European Blend you had? Thanks for commenting - really appreciate hearing from you!