It's been a lively 2 weeks in Shanghai! I could have done more. But my intention isn't to pack as many things as possible. It's to spend time with the BFF as if we're in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Whichever the country, there shouldn't be too much difference in terms of lifestyle, but to welcome shared experiences.
Years ago, my jaw dropped when the BFF announced she was moving to China. I was like, 'You're going to die there!' But she's doing well, and has adapted better than I thought. And I'm most pleased her Mandarin is damn good now. She can swear like a local and has learnt how to get around Chinese idiosyncracies. The stories are hilarious. Could I live in this city even with the friends around? I can't. I salute them for having the spunk and grit to make it their home for a few years. As a tourist, do I like the city? I'll be honest and say yes, I like Shanghai. There's something mesmerizing about it.
We spent alot of time out, and an equal amount of chilling indoors in front of the tv, our respective laptops, and laughing at youtube videos, fb updates and whatnots. The last thing I want is for the BFF to have to re-arrange her schedules majorly around my preferences and consideration. Only because it's the BFF that I don't mind invading her lovely apartment to stay in one of the rooms. I won't do this with another friend, and especially not the Aunts, unless that apartment is mine to use for the duration. It's a fair bit of trouble having house guests, especially if you aren't sure of their daily habits, practices and living preferences.
During this sojourn in Shanghai, I've had pockets of solitude and independence. The rest of the time, I've been pampered, spoilt and well-taken care of. I miss having the BFF around and the time we've spent together is unforgettable and precious. All too soon, it's time to leave. The quick journey to the airport was tinged with sadness and I go home with a truckload of memories to hold dear.
8 comments:
last month was filled with uncertainties for me.. D came home on two ocassions, telling me of possible job offers, one based out of Doha, and the other, Shanghai. The Doha one is definitely out. The Shanghai one is... well, just there for him to accept should we agree. I honestly don't know how he'll survive anywhere in China, he only knows "wo bu zhi dao", and in a funny accent. While, I... I'm scared!! :D
jomel: at least i know you, and i can comment. you'll survive Shanghai easily. so can D. just make sure you can a regular supply of visitors coming in so that you can top up stuff if need be. Shanghai isn't difficult to live in. very easy, in fact. huge number of sgp/msia population. just subscribe to VPN and you're online home free! heh.
thanks for the assurance, babe. you made it sound so easy. :) I guess, the older one gets, the more one yearns for predictability and stability... and especially since I've experienced so many changes, moving from one place to another since young. I guess, sometimes in life, we just gotta learn to embrace new challenges and take that leap of faith. We'll see about Shanghai... perhaps something else will crop up and if that place is right, we'll just know it.. and grab it! ;)
jomel: you'll do just fine sweetie. que sera sera. move with the flow and everything will come easy.
Has it been 2 weeks already....oh my, how time flies..
miss u much dear imp!
*hugz*
eveeleva: i was so glad to read your updates when I was in SH. good to know you're doing good. am off again tonight. will be back with pawpaw supplies soon.
indeed, Shanghai is a charming and mesmerizing city. your entries about your trip bring back many fond memories i have of it. i was just living on xiangshan lu (sunzhongsan guju), a stone's throw away from many of the places you went to! i still miss the area sometimes. however, living there is a whole different matter, which i don't think i will again. :)
D
d: you've got the experience there then. :)
Post a Comment