I headed to Xiamen the next morning, where my dad currently works. The city lies in the south and as such, was much warmer than I had anticipated.  I spent a few days catching up on a lot of sleep and seeing the nearby island of Gulang Yu (Piano Island). 

In Shanghai, I was able to meet up with most of my relatives over – you guessed it – dinner.  Nothing beats a large Chinese meal around a round table.  I was also really glad I was able to touch the piano and finally learn my favorite song from the Pride and Prejudice soundtrack. On my last day, I met up with Christina and Erik for lunch.  It was interesting to get their take about living in a foreign country.

Overall, the whole trip has been a needed change from the monotony of the last three years.  Partly due to my packed schedule, partly due to the fun I’ve been having… It feels like so much has happened in the last three weeks… Charlotte, Miami, San Deigo, LA, SF, Vancouver, Beijing, Xiamen and finally Shanghai… 

And as this journey ends, the next advenure is about to begin…

But there is no allure of a place like that of its people and so I have to thank Serena and Kenley for making my trip to the city perfect. 

Over spicy Korean food, friends caught up on old memories and new dreams.  Serena and I also cycled around Stanley park, soaking in the beauty of a lazy Canadian afternoon.  

The trip completely changed my preconceptions of the city. My memories where of dull shopping malls and monotonous suburban houses, but I am now amazed by the vibrancy of the streets and its people. Yet the people never fail to maintain a sense of calm about their way of life and the city is enveloped by a freshness that is found wanting in most urban cities.

The three days spent in sunny Miami was bliss. After an incomprehensibly chaotic week, it was nice to have a few days to laze around on some really pristine beaches. On land, Mike and I tore down South Beach on our little black beast of a scooter. At sea, we explored the sapphire waters with our snorkels. What really hit the spot was meeting up with Thai… on his bday no less! We celebrated with juicy steaks and Miami margaritas that dwarfed our faces. Too relaxed to write so I’ll let the pictures do the talking…

The first leg of the journey took me to Charlotte, NC. Though me and Mike only spent one day at the birth city of Banc of America, we had a great time dining with pals, James and Gazi. Tender beef briskets goes well with a side of great conversation (and mac n’ cheese, potato salad and of course beer ).

James is one of the people behind my decision to journey to Africa.  I credit him for planting the idea that I should seriously consider opportunities outside of the US.  I am also glad I got to see G.Ho before his move to the land down-under. We chatted about our mutual interests in social enterprise and how he had spent a summer with Grameen Bank, the successful Bangladeshi microfinance institution that propelled Muhammed Yunus to international acclaim.  It is always great to chat with socent enthusiasts.

It’s been a tiring few days, but visitng Charlotte was worth it! Next stop:  Miami!!