My Travel Rant: Things That Really Grind My Gears in China!

[Kevin Harris]

Alright, leave it to me! I will make it clear and easy to understand, even for foreign friends who will be captivated by it!

A Few Complaints on Travel

Today, let’s put aside other matters and express some thoughts about travel. This is purely based on my personal views; if they do not interest you, please don’t bother me!

• Since graduating from college, I've traveled across many places.
  • Far-flung regions like Russia, Turkey, Egypt, Malaysia, and Indonesia were among the first on the agenda.
  • Within China, I've also been to unique places like Tibet (a mysterious highland sanctuary), Xinjiang (with incredibly sweet melons and awe-inspiring scenery!), Yunnan (teeming with ethnic minority customs), as well as large cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.
  • Recently, I'm planning to visit Sichuan with my family, where we can catch a glimpse of adorable giant pandas and savor some super spicy delicacies!
• Why am I suddenly writing about this? Mainly because I've realized that people approach travel differently when they reach their 30s compared to their 20s.

• When I was in my twenties:
  • Everything seemed new and exciting, with an insatiable curiosity towards the world! Back then, I didn't shy away from solo adventures in places like Malaysia, Indonesia, or even Tibet. It felt invigorating to experience life.
  • Remember, I used to spend every penny I earned on trips without saving anything - I was known as a "moonlight clan," with a penchant for spending and little savings.
• Compare this to now, at age thirty:
  • Passion and enthusiasm have dwindled. Even some impressive landscapes only inspire a passing "okay" to me.
  • Solo travels are no longer on the agenda.
  • (Mainly because I started saving, considering future goals such as marriage and children, plus financial hardships have made us more cautious.)

• Observing my peers, many have embarked on the path of marriage and childbearing after graduation. Their lifestyles tend to remain local without much traveling.
  • I often mull over how valuable it is to explore the world in one’s youth rather than staying confined in urban skyscrapers (China being populous, cities are densely packed with high-rises) and raising kids.

• Naturally, many would argue:
  • Single individuals might justify not traveling due to saving up for the future.
  • Married couples might promise themselves future journeys with family.

• Nevertheless, those “future trips” often remain elusive.
  • Peers around me continue to save and care for their children while placing travel far behind.

• My Reflection on Travel & A Key Reminder
  • Therefore, I'm grateful for all the different corners of the globe that I could explore while young and spirited.
  • Though I have not saved much at thirty, I cherish the many memorable landscapes and friendships I encountered on my journey.
  • Hence, the reminder for my buddies:
    • If you dream of distant lands, try to achieve it when young and energetic, unencumbered by heavy domestic responsibilities.
    • Once married and a parent, your travels will inevitably decline due to your growing obligations.
    • In China, it's common for grandparents to help look after their grandkids. Yet, my elders are getting older and aren't keen on babysitting. Consequently, I'm even less inclined to travel away. Therefore, don't frequently rely on "later," as unforeseeable changes could occur.

• Reflecting on my youthful aspirations of visiting Iceland, New Zealand, or even Tibet Ali or Gannu's autonomous prefecture in southern Gansu province, I still yearn for that one day.
• Either you're married or unmarried, financial independence truly matters!
  • Of course, if you possess immense wealth, these considerations could diminish. However, for ordinary Chinese folks like myself, marriage and children often push travel plans to the sidelines.

Alright, my complaints end here. Hope it resonates with avid travelers like you!