My Expectations of This Beautiful Country Were Surpassed – Cultural Exchange in China

My Expectations of This Beautiful Country Were Surpassed – Cultural Exchange in China

My Expectations of This Beautiful Country Were Surpassed – Cultural Exchange in China

Nemanja shares his reflections on the “Discover China” program. Read on to find out how his cultural exchange journey unfolded and what fascinating things he learned along the way.

After years of traveling across the Americas, I decided it was time to expand my horizons even further and explore one of the most fascinating countries in the Eastern Hemisphere—China.

There are countless reasons why China is considered one of the world’s most significant and ancient civilizations. My adventure began in Shanghai, one of the most populous cities on Earth. Shanghai is a stunning blend of modern life and traditional charm.

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be thrilled to discover how many botanical gardens this bustling economic and business hub has to offer. The city’s iconic Nanjing Road brings together all walks of life—from curious tourists and fast-paced professionals to cheerful Chinese grandmothers practicing traditional dance in the early morning light.

Some of the places that really stood out to me were the enchanting Yu Garden and the artsy maze that is Tian Zi Fang.

During the cultural exchange program, I also had the incredible opportunity to travel to Hainan province, where I found myself in a true tropical paradise: the city of Sanya.

One of the most unforgettable moments of my entire trip happened in Tianya Haijiao. Known as “The End of the Earth,” this place marks the southernmost point of China’s landmass—and holds deep symbolic meaning. The Chinese often quote the phrase “I will follow you to Tian-Ya-Hai-Jiao” in poems, symbolizing the depth of love between two people. Visiting this spot gave that sentiment a whole new dimension.

With its rich history and cultural depth, China absolutely deserves a spot at the top of your travel bucket list. My expectations of this beautiful country were far exceeded, and I know for sure—I’ll be coming back to see all that I didn’t get a chance to explore the first time around.

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