People often ask me, why Beijing? I never have a good answer that fits well into that particular politely interested slot of the conversation. Here is the impolite, outsized answer.
Read more Why China?: The Inappropriate Response I Never Give at Parties.
The term ‘au pair’ translates to ‘at par.’ Less opaquely, it means ‘as equal to.’ This indicates the unique place the au pair is expected to play in the family. Unlike the traditional domestic help, the au pair is meant to be considered a member of the family.
No one ever wants tourists; maybe their money but not the tourists themselves... We're bumbling around like curious sumo wrestlers wearing tutus at the ballet. We don't fit, we want to fit, and everyone is a little uncomfortable.
The steeping of the tea and watching the tea settle in the glass are a vital part of enjoying it here on this mountain in Sichuan province, thousands of miles away from my world of to-go cups.
