Hey there! I'm a South African who's been living in Xiamen, Fujian for over six years now. Since I first stepped off the plane in this coastal city, it's been an exhilarating journey, and I can't imagine being anywhere else.Back in South Africa, our dAIly life has its own unique cadence. In rural areas, mornings often start with the sun's rise, and a simple breakfast of mealie pap with a splash of milk is the norm. Here in Xiamen, the morning routine is different. The city wakes up a bit later, and the breakfast offerings are a delightful medley, from savory dumplings to the crispy youtiao.Social gatherings in South Africa are often centered around braais. It's a time when friends and family gather around a fire, cook up delicious boerewors and steaks, and spend hours chatting and laughing in a laid - back atMosphere. In Xiamen, while there are outdoor dining experiences like having seafood by the seaside, the dynamics and interactions during these gatherings are distinct. In Chinese get - togethers, there's a lot of toasting, and the conversations are lively, with a focus on sharing a diverse range of local delicacies.Culturally, South Africa is a rich tapestry of various tribes. In Zulu communities, for example, beadwork is a form of communication, with colors and patterns telling stories of a person's life. In Xiamen, traditional handiCrafts like Shuanlian (a unique local paper - cutting art) carry their own cultural significance, yet the techniques and meanings are worlds apart.There are aspects of life in Xiamen that have been a bit of a challenge for me. The concept of guanxi, for instance, is deeply ingrained here. In South Africa, while relationshiPS matter, they don't play as all - encompassing a role in various aspects of life as they do in China. Here, it seems like it can be a deciding factor in business, job opportunities, and even daily interactions, which can be quite overwhelming for someone used to a more merit - based approach.
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