When my husband began telling me we had the opportunity to visit China, I felt the mix of joy and low shock. I was walking across Asia before Japan, Cambodia, Thailand – but something about China felt very emotionally. It was an unusual field, as well as the idea that there is no Google, Instagram, or even texting it made me reluctant.
But I’m so happy that I didn’t let the fears leave me. Because Suzhou? Suzhou changed everything.
I went to Suzhou, China – and changed me completely
Arriving: From Shanghai Chaos to Suzhou calm
We came to the Shanghai Pudong International Airportone of the biggest and confusing aircraft I’ve ever done. Happily, we had a wedding driver, who made such backplayers, the hours used for very simple puppies.
Riding from Shanghai to Suzhou took less than two hours, and every one passing miles, I felt changed. Skyscrapers disappeared from trees with trees. The sound has taken. And at that time we arrived at Suzhou, it was like I got into the water painting.
My base of luxury home in the heart of the city
I went to Suzhou, China – and changed me completely
We lived there Park Hyatt SuzhouEven true, it was a place to everything. Our room was to listen to a peaceful pool, the Spa was so beautiful that we finished daily treatment, and morning buffet? Without this world.
🥐 New French pastry
🍜 Ramen vessels customized
🥟 Dumplings stolen
🍳 Just the eggs how much you love
It was like getting up in a 5-star-star every morning.
Alternate Hotel: Exploring Suzhou’s Soul
I went to Suzhou, China – and changed me completely
Suzhou is often called “Venice of East,” and when you get wandering on the trenches and bridges, you understand why. But that’s really sticky with me was Silent Beauty For everything. Every garden, ally alley, all the way you have felt ready for peace.
We went. More. In the morning around the lake. In the afternoon of the old grade. The evening browsing local markets. I felt safe, welcome, and wonderfully at home – even without speaking a mandarin.
Offline Online was the best gift
One of my great fear was cut off. Chinese Internet restrictions does not mean Google, no Instagram, and there is no easy way to send friends home. I downloaded VPN programs and offline programs in advance, but after a few days … I stopped looking.
In addition to social media, I looked up. I added you. I was present in a way that I never had been.
TakeAeways: What I have learned in Suzhou
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Language is not an obstacle to patience is the key. Translation apps, nationality, and smiles goes long distances.
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Prepare forwards. Offline maps, printed addresses in Mandarin, and a strong power bank was healthy.
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Cash is not king. Everything is a digital. I have used the credit card, but most local people use apps like Wichat Pay.
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The culture is deep. Suzhou taught me that respect was shown in small ways – silent words, two hands when giving something, nothing is bragging.
I went to Suzhou, China – and changed me completely
Last thoughts: Why did I have back to heart beating
Suzhou didn’t just surprise me. It softened me. I went home I’m free, attached to my phone, and I honestly renew. My skin was clear, my anxiety was easy, and my wide view.
So if China is sitting in your travel list – especially if you are unsure I looked at this sign. Start Suzhou. Let you surprise you.
Will come back different. In the best way.
You have questions about visiting China or wants to see more on my journey? Leave a comment here.
