Family maintains closeness even when living afar

My parents and my family have shaped my perception of so many aspects of life: from history to culture, from food to interpersonal relationships. Growing up, I believe it is only fair that children return this favor. For example, I have been able to open the doors to this great country, China, to my friends and family.

Because they have supported me in every step of my education, I have always shared my knowledge with them after each of my university classes. At night, during dinner, I used to always tell them about new information I learned about Chinese history, philosophy, literature, and even modern society. Therefore, my parents had the chance to know China through my eyes, and they became more interested in the Middle Kingdom.

However, back when I was attending university in Italy, I was also getting to know China through the lens of my teachers, having not yet been there myself. Finally, in 2019, when I first went to Beijing to attend university, I was able to tell my family about my own perception of China, about its wonders, its amazing food, and the kindness of its people.

I discovered that the land of the Sinites was actually very different from what I had imagined and from what I was told in the West — much better in so many aspects. The more I knew, the more I shared with my family, and their appreciation toward my new home grew.

So, they started planning a trip to visit me. Even my grandparents wanted to come. This dream came true in the spring of 2024, when I greeted my family at the airport in Beijing with the biggest smile.

Although I had given my detailed insights, my grandparents wanted to organize the trip all by themselves, by reading books and brochures, and even navigating online. My grandpa called me every night, saying that he found a new neighbor in Beijing and that he wanted to see a new scenic spot that he definitely did not want to miss out on. He was very meticulous because he cared a lot about this trip.

When they arrived, my grandparents were impressed by the infrastructure and facilities — they had never seen anything so modern and efficient. I still remember the train ride we took from the airport to the center of Beijing, during which they were speechless, caught up in a world so different from theirs and, yet, so mesmerizing.

This two-week trip was full of surprises for them. For instance, they did not expect to find the food so savory and exquisite; they were impressed by the variety and richness of Chinese cuisine and how different ingredients could combine to create such an interesting harmony of flavors. I introduced them to all the regional differences, such as Yunnan, Xinjiang, Guangdong, and Shanxi cuisines.

They appreciated the deep culture, attention to detail, and sense of order and cleanliness they encountered throughout the city. They visited many famous attractions, such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven and so many more — the harmony between ancient traditions and modern life truly captivated them. They were amazed by how well every historical site was preserved, reflecting the respect and care of people deeply connected to their history.

But the part that they loved the most was discovering my life here in China. I brought them to my work and showed them my office, apartment and all the small shops and restaurants I visit daily. They were delighted by each small aspect and every little detail of my day-to-day existence. They were finally able to understand my life choice and, although they will always miss me and hope I will be as close to them as possible, they were pleased that I chose China as my home.

The author, Francesca Garfagnoli, is an editor with a background in literature and culture. She studied at the Capital Normal University in Beijing and has been working in the city for the past two years.