A glimpse of China

Ben Contreras

A FIRST glimpse of China from the window of the plane was that of Peking, our first destination. It is a view of a land that never seems to end as the plane began to descend. Clusters of high rises are evident but the empty spaces still dominate, asserting its vastness.

Peking is said to be the capital city of China made famous by the Red Square and other tourists-drawing spots. But some would rather describe it as mere “probinsya” compared to Shanghai.

The cold weather compelled us to dress up in three layers of clothes, our hands covered with gloves, a cotton bonnet and if still not enough, a mask. The weather condition became a hindrance to many things we wanted to do. But we managed to visit and see the Red Square, viewed a few historical spots and learned some of its history. Peking could only offer so much under the cold weather condition and time constraints.

The train ride to Shanghai was something else. At least from Peking to Shanghai, what I saw was land with not an inch wasted and not planted. I was no longer surprise to see the abundance of vegetables and fruits in their groceries and markets. It’s no longer a wonder why markets worldwide are dominated by Chinese products, be it fruits or high-tech products.

In the farms, old houses are being demolished and replaced with highise houses. That’s where the difference lies. Our housing goes horizontal while theirs go vertical.

Infrastructure in China is amazing. I can build a three-story building in less than two months as if building one is like playing Lego.

Anyone has a right to be wary of China’s intention when it plans to interconnect all South East Asian neighbors through underwater or mountain tunnels and bridges.

Those who detest our President and for his close and warm relationship with China suspect anything the President transacts with China. One ridiculous insinuation regarding the intention to ask China to provide us the third communication server was that it would become easier for China to spy on us. But then, what do we have that needs spying? Grow up, guys!

In Shanghai, I saw what I saw on Youtube, “Street food in China,” like eating live scorpions, larvae of certain beetles, etc.

We were impressed by how people and motorists obey the law. When the light signals “stop,” the vehicles dutifully stop and the pedestrians cross the streets only when the green light with a shape of a walking person is on. No, I don’t see and feel that in our city. We are such a “buluyagon” people we don’t want to accept.

Their bus transport system is not that modern but it follows a regulated pattern and the people simply obey. For every bus stop, people go there for their ride. If you understand Chinese, you won’t get lost. Each bus stop provides maps and directions. Oh, yes, the seniors get free rides. I don’t know what besets our MRT but in China, trains are working efficiently.

Do not expect me to talk of Shanghai’s night life from the point of view of a young man. Perhaps, you can try asking our DOM politicians about that. Ours is a different experience; it’s all about people shopping in malls and eating Chinese food.

One thing I learned from this trip is that if you’re afraid of cold, shun it. If not, be sure you have a lot of money to burn and get a local guide, hire a car, and eat the best food China can offer.

China is a new experience for me. Indeed, the dragon has awaken.