Stephane takes his dog for a walk. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

This year marks French expatriate Stephane's 11th year in Qidong. Born in Morocco, Stephane arrived in the city in May 2015 to work at a shipping company. In 2019, he became a materials manager, overseeing COSCO Shipping (Qidong) Offshore's N999 floating production storage and offloading vessel project.

After the project concluded in 2023, Stephane decided to stay in Qidong, renting a home and starting a new chapter of life. Having lived, traveled, and worked in 47 countries, including Madagascar, Thailand, and Russia, Qidong was his first stop in China. Now, he envisions it as the destination of his journey abroad.

Stephane is captivated by Qidong's relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. He enjoys exploring the city on foot, experiencing the lively chatter of local markets, listening to the waves along the gentle river, and savoring Chinese tea culture in serene teahouses. The city's slow pace and natural charm have provided this romantic Frenchman with a spiritual haven.

His fascination with Qidong goes beyond the scenery. Stephane's sketchbook contains more than 60 portraits, capturing the people he meets — from colleagues and restaurant staff to tea masters and children he encounters on walks — preserving the kindness and warmth of everyday life in Qidong.

A devoted foodie, Stephane is particularly fond of the city's seafood. He shops at local markets and supermarkets and even maintains WeChat contact with vendors to have fresh ingredients delivered directly to his home.

Stephane buys seafood at a local market. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Stephane has also created a cocktail studio in his Qidong home, using family recipes to craft drinks and running a rum shop online. "I hope to open a physical store here in Qidong and pass on my family's traditions," he said. "I want to settle down here. There's so much more to explore in this city, just like savoring a fine drink — it takes time to truly appreciate it."