Today I decided to explore the French Concession. I honestly did not know what to expect. It told me that there were picturesque stores, and tons of coffee shops. Unless I was in the wrong part of town, that is not what I found.
Walking on Huaihai Rd, I found huge shopping malls and name brands. I entered into one and found an English-language bookstore and a high-end deli. Now, I know I’m not in Kansas anymore. In the basement, there was a grocery store with all the good stuff from back home – not a single Chinese character on anything! I felt like I was transported to the UK! It was a real refreshing feeling to see so many things that I could find at home. Honey Nut Cheerios and Kraft Mac & Cheese. I fought my urge to buy everything… because as we know, illusions are not cheap! I would have to pay about twice as much to buy my Cheerios without characters on it… and I’m an intern on a budget. But when I need my Mac & Cheese, I now know where to go.
In other news, I made my first acquaintance. A friendly young fellow offered to help me with my bags from the grocery store. He recognized me from the apartment – apparently he lives just down the hall, room 648. I am 651. He was working in Canada for a year before he moved back to Shanghai not too long ago, so his English was very good. It was good to have someone to talk to on our way back to our respective apartments. Now, if I have an emergency, I at least have one friendly face to turn to around here, and his name is Cory. Wo xin pengyou Cory.
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