BEIJING: When Sammy and Tommy, an adventure travel couple from the United States, embarked on their journey through China, they never imagined how it would unfold.
Reflecting on the recent trip to China, the couple expressed their astonishment in a video posted on their YouTube channel, “Sammy and Tommy,” which has around 174,000 subscribers.
“Beijing has not been what we expected at all. I definitely expected it like a loud, crazy (and) noisy city and it’s truly been like the complete opposite. Everything is so green and people have been so friendly,” the duo shared passionately.
The couple are among the many foreigners who have visited China and been astounded by its efficient public transport services, the widespread use of cashless payments, and other “life hacks.”
Through platforms like YouTube and TikTok, foreign vloggers are now sharing their experiences of this diverse country, offering a glimpse into the real China while dispelling common stereotypes and misconceptions.
For many, it is their first visit to China, and they have found their experiences far exceeded expectations. Their videos showcase immaculate public spaces, secure nighttime strolls and cutting-edge infrastructure like high-speed trains, among others.
“What I saw really surprised me,” said Josie from Sydney, Australia, who has some 977,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel “josie lifts things,” in a video of her time in Shanghai. –Agencies
