Rethinking ‘freedom’ – two scenarios : healthcare and safety

"We are a family of four from the USA that recently moved to China for a couple of years for work. We would like to use this channel to share with you our experiences and adventures that encounter along the way. Enjoy!"

With Rafa Goes Around! ... Bonus film - on smartphone life ...

With Garland Nixon ...

YuánMíngYuán was the original Summer Palace in BeiJing and sometimes referred to as the 'Old Summer Palace'. YuanMingYuan lies 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of central Beijing, close to the (new) Summer Palace (YíHéYuán 颐和园). It was constructed during the 18th and early 19th centuries and was a wonderland of lakes and waterways, bridges, hills and pavilions. There were originally towers, terraces, pavilions, halls, corridors, pagodas and bridges with a total construction area of 150,000 square meters. Artisans were recruited from all over China to enact the exquisite settings. Many of the 160 scenic spots were reproductions of famous mountains, rivers and famous gardens in China. The various styles of architecture, standing encircled by hills and streams, presented a most picturesque view. In addition, hundreds of invaluable Chinese art masterpieces and antiquities were stored in the halls, including some unique copies of literary works and collections. YuanMingYuan was, indeed, a veritable museum of garden construction and horticulture. Known to be one of the largest museums in the world, a popular name in China was the 'Garden of Gardens'. In 1860 during the 'Second Opium War', YuanMingYuan was looted then burned down by imperialist British and French troops. So great was the devastation that a new Summer Palace was later built nearby.

With FunFancie ... WangXianGu, also known as The Fairy Valley or Valley of the Immortals, is a legendary place in Chinese mythology and Taoist folklore. It holds significance in Chinese culture as a symbol of spiritual attainment, immortality, and the pursuit of enlightenment. According to legend, WangXianGu is located in the remote and mystical mountains of China, often described as being hidden within the mist-shrouded peaks of the Kunlun Mountains or other ranges. The name "WangXianGu" translates to "Valley of Seeking Immortals" or "Valley of Longing for Immortals," reflecting its association with those who seek to attain immortality through spiritual cultivation and the practice of Taoism. In Chinese mythology and Taoist beliefs, immortals are revered beings who have achieved enlightenment, transcending the mortal realm to become eternal and divine. It is said that WangXianGu is inhabited by these immortal beings, who reside in secluded caves, pavilions, or palaces within the valley's lush and picturesque landscape. Throughout history, WangXianGu has been a source of inspiration for poets, scholars, and artists, who have depicted it in literature, paintings, and other forms of art. It has also become a symbol of the quest for inner harmony, wisdom, and spiritual liberation in Chinese culture. While WangXianGu is primarily a mythological and metaphorical concept, there are real locations in China that are sometimes associated with the legend, such as scenic valleys, mountain retreats, and sacred sites believed to be imbued with spiritual energy. These places often attract pilgrims, seekers, and tourists seeking to experience the tranquility and beauty that are reminiscent of the mythical Fairy Valley.

GuangZhou: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Canton Tower (广州塔 Guǎngzhōu Tǎ): Enjoy panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest towers in the world. Chimelong Paradise (长隆欢乐世界 Chánglóng Huānlè Shìjiè): Have fun with thrilling rides and entertainment for kids of all ages. Chimelong Safari Park (长隆野生动物园 Chánglóng Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): See a variety of animals up close in this large safari park. Yuexiu Park (越秀公园 Yuèxiù Gōngyuán): Explore the lush greenery and iconic Five Ram Statue in this historic park. Guangzhou Zoo (广州动物园 Guǎngzhōu Dòngwùyuán): Visit the zoo to see pandas, elephants, and other animals. Haizhu Lake (海珠湖 Hǎizhū Hú): Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy boat rides on this picturesque lake. Guangzhou Children's Museum (广州儿童博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Értóng Bówùguǎn): Interactive museum with exhibits designed for children. Chimelong Water Park (长隆水上乐园 Chánglóng Shuǐshàng Lèyuán): Cool off in this water park featuring slides and pools. Guangzhou Science City (广州科学城 Guǎngzhōu Kēxué Chéng): Learn about science through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Baiyun Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy stunning views of the city from the mountain. Guangzhou Ocean World (广州海洋世界 Guǎngzhōu Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Explore marine life and watch exciting performances at this aquarium. Guangzhou Library (广州图书馆 Guǎngzhōu Túshūguǎn): Discover a wide range of books and resources in this modern library. Redtory Art and Design Factory (红专厂 Hóngzhuānchǎng): Explore art galleries and creative spaces in this former factory complex. Guangzhou Crocodile Park (广州鳄鱼园 Guǎngzhōu Èyú Yuán): See a variety of crocodile species and learn about their habitats. Haixinsha Island (海心沙岛 Hǎixīnshā Dǎo): Enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities on this artificial island along the Pearl River. Guangdong Museum (广东省博物馆 Guǎngdōng Shěng Bówùguǎn): Explore the history and culture of Guangdong Province through exhibits and artifacts. Guangzhou Children's Park (广州儿童公园 Guǎngzhōu Értóng Gōngyuán): Enjoy playgrounds, rides, and family-friendly activities in this park. South China Botanical Garden (华南植物园 Huánán Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy nature walks in this botanical garden. Guangzhou Sculpture Park (广州雕塑公园 Guǎngzhōu Diāosù Gōngyuán): Admire sculptures and art installations in this outdoor park. Baiyun International Convention Center (白云国际会议中心 Báiyún Guójì Huìyì Zhōngxīn): Attend events or explore the architectural marvels of this convention center. 30 More Places to Visit in GuangZhou Shamian Island (沙面岛 Shāmiàn Dǎo): Explore colonial architecture and tranquil surroundings on this historic island. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠 Chén Jiā Cí): Admire intricate architecture and traditional art in this ancestral hall. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Flower City Square (花城广场 Huāchéng Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and floral displays in this city square. Guangzhou Chimelong Golf Club (广州长隆高尔夫俱乐部 Guǎngzhōu Chánglóng Gāo'ěrfū Jùlèbù): Play golf and enjoy luxurious amenities at this golf club. Guangzhou Library (广州图书馆 Guǎngzhōu Túshūguǎn): Discover a wide range of books and resources in this modern library. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Flower City Square (花城广场 Huāchéng Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and floral displays in this city square. Guangzhou Chimelong Golf Club (广州长隆高尔夫俱乐部 Guǎngzhōu Chánglóng Gāo'ěrfū Jùlèbù): Play golf and enjoy luxurious amenities at this golf club.