Walking the Silk Road

"We experience kind gestures every day, with people offering us something for no other reason than to welcome us," they said, noting that such warmth felt especially precious after being away from home for over a year.

This hospitality inspired them to learn their first words of Chinese. Although they had relied on online translation to communicate with locals, they realized that speaking Chinese would allow them to better express their gratitude and respond to the kindness they were receiving.

"Learning the language seemed very difficult at first, as it is very different from ours, but we felt very happy when we managed to be understood for the first time,"Michel said.

Now, they are still on their way to Shanghai, a city that symbolizes the pinnacle of China's economy and culture in their eyes.

Although challenges may arise, they are gradually developing a deeper cultural connection and becoming more comfortable interacting with Chinese people.

"There are fewer cultural differences than we thought," Michel said. "Even though we come from opposite sides of the world and our societies are based on different concepts, we all share the same humanity that brings us together."

They sum up their experience with two words: connection and freedom. "Connection" refers to their bond with the world, while "freedom" expresses their desire to explore independently and carve out their own paths in life.

As the two continue to travel deeper into China, more people are taking notice of their journey. Many young internet users engage with them on the Chinese lifestyle-sharing platform Xiaohongshu (RedNote). Some shared similar hiking experiences, while others said they could feel the joy of traveling just by watching their videos.

"We were very surprised by the positive reception of our adventure," Rene said. "Getting so many messages of welcome and support made us feel truly accepted in this new country."

They also encourage others to visit China, especially with the country's visa-free policy, which they see as a sign of openness. "It shows a will from the country to let you come and visit, which is reassuring when planning an adventure like this," Rene added.