28.11.2025
23 °C
In Fuli, we traveled back more than forty years to when Sheila lived in Beijing. It was a time before private vehicles, before everyone had cellphones, before luxurious hotels adorned every skyline, and certainly before market vendors displayed QR codes for instant payments. Yet, in Fuli, the sights, sounds, and scents of traditional China still prevail... This place truly represents a clash of two worlds. We arrived in Suzy’s husband’s Tesla, equipped with all the modern features, while the local farmers still transport their goods using ancient machinery or tricycles... Citrus fruits are currently in season, and our goddaughter, Suzy—who acted as our driver, guide, and translator—was adept at haggling for mandarins and sweet potatoes for the Tea Cozy staff... While these images convey part of the experience, the ambiance is something that cannot be captured. The buzz of conversations, the sound of chopping boards, the aroma of spices, and the friendly curiosity of the locals all blend into an unforgettable experience. Sheila recollects her early days in China, when her presence as a Western woman would quickly draw a crowd. Even now, in the winding stalls of Fuli market, we still attract curious glances and warm smiles… While Rose and Suzy may have their hair styled at a chic salon, the locals receive haircuts in the market… Fuli's farmers' market happens nine days a month and is frequently avoided by tour guides due to one of its traditional offerings being dog meat. However, today, we didn’t see any of that. Instead, there were stalls overflowing with pork, chickens, ducks, and pigeons, along with frogs, river snails, and tiny turtles. The sheer abundance is staggering. Though most food is sourced locally, we noticed fruits and vegetables brought in from various parts of China. These women were selling young plants that, even this late in the season, can still take root and flourish… Dried foods continue to be highly sought after here. No matter where we looked, harvests hung in the sunlight. Dehydrated cabbages and persimmons are particularly favored, and these seasoned and air-dried pork strips carry the distinctive flavor of traditional cooking… Our market visit was just the start of a delightful day. Curry and his wife insisted on hosting us overnight in their lovely home in Guilin, allowing us to experience the historic city at night. The famous Sun and Moon pagodas in Shan Lake lie at the city's center... Our plans to take our friends and their charming daughters, Ruby and Katie, out for dinner vanished when Rose presented a stunning home-cooked meal. The feast included crabs, beef, chicken, and a large bowl of delicate white mantis shrimps, a prized delicacy in Asia... Their generosity knew no bounds. Late that evening, James discovered a hole in his sock. Without a word, Rose promptly ordered five new pairs online, which arrived in less than thirty minutes. Almost everything can be purchased and paid for via phone, and everyone pays using QR codes—even for small amounts in the market. Curry manages nearly all household tasks from his screen, including operating the robot that cleans the tile floors. Suzy gives commands to her electric vehicle, and hardly anyone uses cash or even cards anymore. We ponder if the sugar cane vendor on our street still accepts cash... Our time in China is nearing its end, and tomorrow we will take you on a cruise along the River Li, one of the most stunning waterways worldwide.
Posted by Hawkson
22:13
Archived in China
28.11.2025 23 °C