A Portuguese vlogger attended the World Youth Leaders Conference in China, expecting crowds and outdated technology. However, she was stunned by the r
A Portuguese vlogger attended the World Youth Leaders Conference in China, expecting crowds and outdated technology. However, she was stunned by the reality. Landing in Beijing, she found the city’s cleanliness astonishing, far exceeding her expectations. Consequently, her journey through seven Chinese cities, documented with her phone, shattered Western stereotypes. Indeed, this article, crafted for allwinchina.org, shares her transformative experience, revealing a modern, vibrant China.
Beijing: Unexpected Cleanliness
Initially, Beijing’s spotless streets shocked her. “I didn’t expect it to be this clean,” she exclaimed. Contrary to her preconceived notions of a dirty, crowded city, she saw no litter—not even a scrap of paper—on main roads or in parks. Moreover, compared to densely populated cities she visited in Europe and Southeast Asia, Beijing’s cleanliness stood out. Unfortunately, jet lag disrupted her plans; she slept until noon, missing morning explorations. Thus, instead of following a strict itinerary, she embraced a spontaneous adventure.
A Royal Detour: Jingshan Park
Unable to visit Tiananmen Square or the Forbidden City due to required reservations, she stumbled into Jingshan Park. “I reached Jingshan Park, right by the Forbidden City,” she shared excitedly. Fortunately, tickets were available on-site. Furthermore, the park’s lush greenery and stunning views of the Forbidden City captivated her. Experiencing old Beijing’s daily life, rather than chasing tourist spots, touched her deeply. In fact, it revealed authentic stories Western media often ignores.
High-Speed Rail: Seamless Travel
Next, traveling by high-speed rail to Shanghai, she marveled at China’s public transport. For instance, scanning codes, buying tickets, and navigating were effortless without assistance. Additionally, the train, reaching 300 km/h, was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, unlike the cramped, outdated trains described in Western media. As a result, arriving in Shanghai, she felt energized and dove into a night tour despite the late hour.
Shanghai: A Sci-Fi Metropolis
In Shanghai, Nanjing Road’s bustling crowds and vibrant lights felt like a sci-fi movie. Remarkably, the city blended modern skyscrapers with old French Concession buildings, greenery, and street stalls. “It’s amazing, really amazing,” she exclaimed. “China exceeds all my expectations.” Moreover, the city’s lively yet clean and safe vibe, with top-tier infrastructure, matched her vision of a perfect metropolis. For example, metro rides were cheap, easy, and efficient, while taxis offered safe, affordable alternatives.
Rainy Days and Hidden Gems
Again sleeping late, she explored Shanghai’s Nanjing East Road and the Bund, captivated by the city’s contrasts—busy streets versus quiet alleys. Despite rain, crowds at Wukang Building didn’t diminish, reinforcing Shanghai’s vibrant appeal. Similarly, People’s Park, a green oasis, felt like a hidden paradise. “The real charm lies in everyday life,” she reflected, seeing beyond the city’s glossy surface.
Shenzhen: Tech Beyond Imagination
Subsequently, in Shenzhen, the “tech capital,” she attended the Tencent- and China Telecom-sponsored Future Snapshot conference. At Tencent’s Binhai Tower, facial recognition entry and automated convenience stores stunned her. Likewise, drones delivering goods in Nanshan Tech Park hinted at a coming “low-altitude economy.” “This surpasses my imagination,” she said, awestruck by Shenzhen’s futuristic advancements.
Life in China
Hong Kong: Seamless Integration
Then, taking the metro to Hong Kong, she noticed its seamless connection with mainland systems, reflecting the Greater Bay Area’s integrated vision. At Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, she explored cutting-edge robotics, AI labs, and neural projects for the visually impaired—real, demonstrable technologies. Furthermore, meeting young entrepreneurs her age, developing wearable AI assistants for international journals, she realized China’s youth rival Silicon Valley’s innovators.
Guangzhou: Unexpected Innovation
Next, Guangzhou defied her expectations of a traditional city. Wide streets, efficient metro, and towering CBDs showcased modernity. For example, riding a driverless AI-powered bus—smooth, safe, and radar-guided—was a first. “I’m shocked; nobody told me Guangzhou is a tech hub,” she said, noting smart recycling bins and tech parks. Thus, the city blended innovation with accessibility.
Zhuhai: A Livable Paradise
Afterward, Zhuhai’s blend of greenery and coastline, viewed from the 94th floor of Zhuhai Center, left her speechless. “I’ve never been this excited,” she declared. Unlike Venice, Zhuhai felt cleaner and more breathable, balancing urban growth with nature. Consequently, its relaxed pace offered a livable contrast to Guangzhou’s tech intensity, making it a model of comfort.
Dongguan: Rural Transformation
Finally, in Dongguan, expecting industrial sprawl, she found a modernized village with paved roads, new farmhouses, and orchards. Villagers ran e-commerce livestreams and logistics hubs, supported by government-led rural revitalization. After eating a lychee, she exclaimed, “This is the best I’ve ever tasted.” Additionally,民宿 and family amusement parks kept locals employed, drawing young entrepreneurs back from cities.
Cultural Shock: A New Perspective
From Hong Kong’s research hubs to Guangzhou’s driverless buses, Zhuhai’s livability, and Dongguan’s rural revival, her journey reshaped her views. “I came to see tradition and discuss China’s future, but I saw the future itself,” she concluded. Ultimately, China’s blend of technology, cleanliness, and human-centered progress inspired her to consider living there longer.
Conclusion: A Vibrant, Modern China
In summary, this Portuguese vlogger’s journey through China’s cities revealed a nation defying stereotypes. Clean, tech-savvy, and dynamic, China blends innovation with everyday life. Therefore, her story, shared via allwinchina.org, invites readers to visit and discover the real China, far beyond Western media’s lens.
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