14 Days in China: A Land of Breathtaking Beauty and Rich Culture
Travelling can really give us a fresh perspective. It is not just about checking places off our list. Instead, it is about fully experiencing new cultures, enjoying different tastes, and getting to know the stories behind each place. And that is exactly what I did during my amazing two-week journey in China.
China has always felt like a second home to me. My father goes there often for work, and he has Chinese friends who are really nice to me and my family. I went there last in 2016, and I still remember our first stop in Kunming really well. But now I am going to Beijing, which is super exciting.
Our adventure began at the incredible Great Wall, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. We were super impressed by its old stones, built to ward off invaders, snaking its way across the landscape like a slumbering dragon. When we climbed up, we felt the significance of its historical weight. The view from up there was absolutely amazing - we could see so many hills and stuff in the distance. We did not walk all 13,170 miles of it (because seriously, that is crazy long), but just seeing how massive it was left us totally speechless.
Next, we started an exciting journey up Huangshan Mountain, also called Yellow Mountain. Famous for its breathtaking sunrises, natural hot springs, and peaks covered in clouds, it was truly a remarkable sight. The climb was difficult, but the companionship with my family and new-found friends made it even more fulfilling.
When we made it to the top, we were welcomed by an amazing sight. The sunset painted the sky in fiery hues,, and when morning came, there was a sea of clouds that turned the mountains into something magical. We stayed at a comfy hotel on the side of the mountain, soaking in the celestial show and the serene ambiance.
When we got back to Beijing, we had a blast exploring its rich history. The Temple of Heaven, with its majestic architecture and serene gardens, told stories about the lives and reigns of the emperors who once presided over it. And then there is the Bird’s Nest Stadium, which is just breathtaking. It is a perfect example of China’s Olympic spirit and how they have used modern technology to create something incredible.
As we strolled through the opulent halls of the Forbidden City, our minds were filled with vivid images of the grandeur and splendour that once graced this imperial palace. With each step, we could not help but envision ourselves transported back in time, completely immersed in the sheer vastness and historical significance that permeated this majestic landmark.
China was absolutely stunning, but finding food that met our halal requirements was tough. We mostly ended up at KFC or Bengali restaurants, but we made the most of it and tried some new dishes too. We had a great time eating Tofu, chow mein, and chuanr. Every bite was packed with delicious flavor. And of course, mastering the art of eating with chopsticks was a fun and rewarding experience.
The language barrier was another hurdle. Though the Chinese people were incredibly friendly and helpful, most could not speak English. Thankfully, our Chinese friends acted as our bridges, smoothing the way and ensuring we had a seamless experience.
Looking back, these 14 days in China were unlike any other journey. They sparked a passion within me to record everything that happened, maybe even write an autobiography. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the serene mountaintops of Huangshan, each moment was a treasure trove of discovery. I returned home with a newfound appreciation for China's rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. These memories will always stay with me, showing just how much traveling can change you.
