In recent days, "Becoming Chinese" has sparked a global trend on overseas social media platforms. More and more foreigners are no longer satisfied with online experiences and are traveling to China in person, with Guangdong—where tradition and modernity blend—as their first stop.
First Encounter with Guangdong
For many foreign visitors, their first spark of interest in traveling to China begins with a chance encounter on social media.
A French tourist came across posts about Guangdong on Instagram and decided to see it in person. Not long ago, he and his family bought many electronic products at Huaqiangbei in Shenzhen, calling it a "paradise for electronics enthusiasts."
Getting Closer to Guangdong
This year's New Year's Eve event, "Guangdong New Year, Shared with the World," hosted by the Guangdong Department of Culture and Tourism, was held in Shantou. Hundreds of international guests were invited to experience a traditional long-table New Year banquet and watch demonstrations of intangible cultural heritage items.
German influencer Stephanie spoke highly of the Shantou New Year feast. Ahmed Elseny from Egypt could not stop praising Shantou beef balls. Photos of Chaozhou's Guangji Bridge and Paifang Street posted by British travel blogger Jackson on social media received hundreds of thousands of likes.
Understanding Guangdong
Today, Chinese culture holds even stronger appeal for foreign visitors, and immersive, interactive cultural experiences have become a key attraction.
Before taking foreign tourists to eat fish in Shunde, national senior tour guide Liu Bingxu first leads them to local fish ponds and explains the history of fish farming and the ecological cycle of the "mulberry–fish pond" system.
In this way, visitors can enjoy the cuisine while also learning about the dietary habits and life wisdom of the people of Shunde.
Falling in Love with Guangdong
Globally popular Guangdong-made products, convenient payment apps, and well-developed departure tax refund services have become strong draws, attracting visitors from around the world to spend in the province.
Paloma Esther Levy, head of the French travel agency MANDARIN VOYAGES, found the shopping experience during her trip to Guangdong especially memorable and plans to strongly recommend it to French travelers after returning home.
Author: Liu Yue
Photos: Nanfang Plus
