All Stories
The China Monologues: Keeping calm in tense reality
“Do you think they’ll recognize us?” I whispered to Manfriend. “Well, I haven’t seen too many other towering foreigners walking about,” he mumbled back. He was right. While exploring...
The China Monologues: Agony and awe along China’s riversides
I was fairly confident I could tackle what was advertised as a lovely bicycle ride along the Yulong River.
The China Monologues: The (now) COVID-19 Virus, update No. 2
As he rolled up his sleeves, Manfriend told the guard, “I’ll guess … 35 degrees (Celsius).” Chuckling, the guard held the thermometer over his arm and waited. Close, - 35.5...
The China Monologues: Coronavirus, update No. 1
We’re living and working in a city with millions of others, in one of the biggest travel hubs in the country. That’s millions of reasons to still play it safe.
The China Monologues: Beautiful temple tour leaves no time for pupu
“But what about pupu*?” our driver asked in Mandarin. I looked over at Manfriend. His face was taut. Childish laughter was imminent.
The China Monologues: Sometimes the malady can be learning the language
Every textbook to teach adults Mandarin has the basics for sicknesses — the primary ailment taught, for whatever reason, being “la duzi,” or, um, loose bowels.
The China Monologues: A stunning sub for holiday spirit
Bobbing and weaving through the crowds, we were off to our second of two light shows. The first had been, well … “incredible” just didn’t seem to do it justice.
The China Monologues: Somehow trips tend to end up at the mall
Dressed in what I can only describe as “weary traveler chic,” I was shocked to have been allowed inside.
The China Monologues: Searching for new sick-day solaces
And while I feel better now, this latest bout of illness made me realize how hard it can be to be sick abroad.
The China Monologues: Lessons easier taught than learned
After five minutes of trying to explain his idea, Manfriend threw up the white flag.