I posted the rest of the photos from my most recent China trip — check ’em out here.
While there were some definite highlights from this trip (traveling to Yangshuo with Abe, in particular), I’m happy to report that I won’t be going back to China for quite a while. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to get to know some new places, learn a ton about manufacturing, reconnect with old friends, and learn a new language, but traveling as much as I do — I count 16 China/Taiwan trips in the past 3 years — is also challenging and stressful. I’ve given my notice at Microsoft, and my last day is coming right up. I’m excited to explore and define the next chapter in my work life as well as have a little more time in Seattle for friends, projects and fun.
posted June 15, 2011 – 2:03 pm
On a conference call to some folks back home this morning, they jokingly asked if I was ready to move to China, having spent the last three and some weeks here. I told them I wasn’t quite ready to go native, but I’ll admit that when I checked out of my hotel today, it did feel a little like I was moving out.
It turns out that (almost) four weeks is an awful long time! Surprisingly, two packs of gum and two travel-sized tubes of toothpaste were enough to last the whole trip. I was worried I’d run out. Unsurprisingly, four chocolate bars weren’t nearly enough. I was pretty sure I’d run out, but didn’t have room for any more.
Also not surprising: traveling to gorgeous places with my amazing friend Abe was much better than being alone (or with coworkers) and working in industrial cities. With that said, Suzhou is a big improvement (in my mind) over Dongguan. The gardens and temples are a little touristy and pretty busy on the weekend, but with good reason — they’re lovely.
It’s easy to take a ton of pictures, and I have a couple hundred from the past few weeks. Look for more soon. In the meantime, I’m excited to be heading home tomorrow!
posted June 1, 2011 – 8:36 pm
