Meet Ellery and Cassy, two adventurous au pairs living in Beijing with the support of GlobalYouth Au Pair. As part of their cultural exchange program in China, GlobalYouth invited them to experience the vibrant city of Chengdu, famous for its rich history, delicious Sichuan cuisine, and lively nightlife. With a perfect mix of tradition and modernity, Chengdu provided an unforgettable backdrop for their journey.
Discovering Chengdu: Day 1 – A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity
A Stroll Through History: Wide and Narrow Alleys
The day began with a visit to the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi), a place where Chengdu’s past and present coexist beautifully. These cobblestone streets, flanked by red lanterns and historic courtyards, offered Ellery and Cassy a glimpse into traditional Sichuan culture.
The highlight of their visit was trying on Hanfu, traditional Chinese attire. Dressed in flowing robes with intricate embroidery, the au pairs embraced the elegance of ancient China. “I felt like a princess from a historical drama!” Cassy laughed as she posed for photos.
The alleys also offered an irresistible array of Chengdu street food, from crispy Jianbing to sweet Tangyou Guozi (sugar-coated dough sticks). Every bite was a new flavor discovery, proving why Chengdu is a paradise for food lovers.
Savoring the Flavors: Dinner with Qiaojiao Beef
For dinner, Ellery and Cassy enjoyed one of Chengdu’s most comforting dishes: Qiaojiao Beef (beef in spicy broth). This hearty meal, brimming with bold flavors and tender beef slices, perfectly showcased the Sichuan love for spice.
Sitting in a cozy restaurant, they marveled at the balance of heat and aroma in the dish. “It’s spicy, but so delicious. I could eat this every day!” Cassy exclaimed, while Ellery nodded in agreement, savoring every bite.
A Night to Remember: Jiuyanqiao Nightlife
The day concluded at Jiuyanqiao (Nine Eyes Bridge), a hub for Chengdu’s nightlife. As the bridge’s dazzling lights reflected on the water, Ellery and Cassy joined the lively atmosphere, surrounded by music, laughter, and energy.
“This city never sleeps,” Ellery said, soaking in the vibrant scene. With their phones in hand, the au pairs captured memories to share with their host families and friends. Jiuyanqiao was a perfect example of how Chengdu’s modern pulse complements its traditional roots.
Looking Ahead: Day 2 Adventures
On Day 2, Ellery and Cassy will dive even deeper into Chengdu’s wonders. From visiting the Giant Panda Base to exploring the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and witnessing the magic of Sichuan Opera, their journey continues to unfold in exciting ways.
Are you ready to live the dream in China?
Join the GlobalYouth Au Pair in China program to immerse yourself in a new culture, create unforgettable memories, and explore iconic destinations like Chengdu. Start your adventure today!
