I thought a special post dedicated to China was needed so I'm writing it as I venture towards the southern border (hoping not to feel car sick at the same time).

China blew my expectations through the roof! I didn't realise that China was such an interesting and beautiful country with such diverse culture and vibrant lifestyles. I am so pleased that I decided to start my adventure off here.

What I loved about China was the constant buzz from the people. Chinese people are the kindest and most helpful people I've ever met. They go out of their way to make sure you are okay and that you get to the right places. I've never experienced such kindness before, especially when you cannot speak their language! Major bonus points for China here!

The seconded thing I really enjoyed about China was the vast contrast between the places I visited. I've been lucky to experience the big city life and the small village life. I've been through minority towns and saw how the traditional Chinese people still live. It's amazing that there are still people living in mountains and that they still wear their traditional dress. I'm not sure how I feel about the western China. I believe they are slowly loosing their culture but at the same time they are evolving with the rest of the world.

My biggest issue in China was hygiene. For such a powerful country their hygiene sucks. It's one thing I couldn't cope with. The constant bringing up off phlegm and spitting was too much. They spat anywhere! In the street, in restaurants, in lifts, literally anywhere! Food hygiene was disgusting too, it literally doesn't exist. Raw meat is left out everywhere, same knives, dirty water for washing bowls. Seriously not good. To push it up a level, some parents think it's okay to let their children poo on the floor!! Some kids have slits in their trousers so they can go when they need to. Absolutely vile.

Food was an issue but I've resorted to vegetables with rice and noodles so it's not so bad now. I just do not look into the kitchens and pretend that everywhere is clean.

One thing that has surprised me is that I am really starting to enjoy hiking =|. My legs are turning to steel and my fitness is improving. I love reaching the top and feeling a sense of achievement and looking out to incredible views! Beautiful feeling.

China has a lot more to offer and I will come back to explore some of the places I didn't get chance to visit.

I have met such interesting people from all around the world who have made my experience of China even better.

I am in love with travelling and am so grateful that I have the opportunity to do what I've always wanted to do! <3