Back to Beijing

First Impressions

Returning to Beijing after being away for so long was a flood of emotions. The city I once called home felt simultaneously familiar and foreign to me. As I stepped off the plane and made my way through the airport, I was struck by the difference in pace between Beijing and the city I had been living in. Beijing was bustling with life, loud and chaotic, and I immediately felt energized by the energy of the city.

The Changes

As I made my way through the city over the next few days, I couldn't help but notice how much the city had changed since I had left. The skyline was dotted with new skyscrapers, the streets were cleaner, and the public transportation system had been updated. Even some of the traditional hutongs had been renovated and modernized into hip new neighborhoods.

The Culture

Despite the changes, I was relieved to find that the heart and soul of Beijing remained intact. The cuisine was still as delicious as ever, from traditional dishes like Peking duck to street food like jianbing. The people were just as friendly and welcoming as I remembered, and I was reminded of how much I had missed the warm, familial culture that is so unique to China.

Back in Beijing, I was struck by the sense of familiarity that washed over me. Although the city had changed in many ways, it still felt like home. I was grateful for this reminder of the importance of returning to our roots and the places that have shaped us into who we are today.