What Does China REALLY Look Like, Beyond The Propaganda? (#155)

Shanghai. China. I lived here for almost 7 years, and likely would have stayed for many more if the pandemic never happened. In early 2020, I left China to visit family back home -- and soon after the borders were shut, and it became impossible to go back. And so I stopped waiting.

But Shanghai was a special place for me, it was my home for the better part of a decade. It's a truly developed, cosmopolitan city that was caught in the middle of a political storm. I missed it. And when events led to the borders finally reopening in 2023, I knew I had to go back, even if it was just a visit.

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#sabbatical #china #shanghai

[SabbaticalTommy]

I know, it's been awhile. Have been off on some adventures in the Middle Kingdom. It's time to get rolling again. Let's go

[garyconway]

I lived in China from 2005 - 2009 not working just having a another adventure in my life. Just like you, I have never enjoyed another country like I enjoyed my stay in China. I toured the mainland and lived mostly in Chongqing for one year but my focus was really in Sanya Hainan. Its the tropical island in the south. I managed to stay there 4 years and left like I was in paradise. I know you understand that.

[AmalekTrought]

It’s good to see Sabbatical back! This guy has the most diverse mix of countries on his channel but what amazes me the most is the amount of languages he speaks. Like how in the world does he know so many languages??? 🤯

[mcat]

My uncle and his family lived in a small city near Guangzhou in 2008, my family went to visit them and it was the biggest culture shock of my life as a 10 year old, but so awesome. I would love to go back to China again and see all the progress that has been made, especially regarding infrastructure. So fascinating.

[hermesliteratus]

The man clearly has some fond memories of Shanghai, where he lived for 7 years, and he also speaks decent Mandarin too.

[ValentinaMitchell]

So good to see Tommy back and to see he has a big smile is everything! I hope only the best for him!

[WheelsGood.]

I used to go for work before COVID, went 4 or 5 times. Absolutely loved it and miss it all the damn time. Extremely unique country with very warm and friendly people.

[unnamedman]

I spent some time in China, in the city of Dalian, I enjoyed it, nothing like what the west portrays it to be, the people were friendly. Good to see you back at it Tommy!

[frankkluz]

All those interactions simply prove people are just people wherever you go in the world. -- It's a nice city but the language is the key wherever you go in the world. They all were surprised by how well you spoke their language ! -- And so was I !!! -- Good video.

[Dieblauesau]

"If you can make it in New york, you can make it anywhere". Tommy is one of the few people in the world that could make it anywhere. Always enjoy your vids! Cheers from Norway!

[charliewilliams]

I’ve been waiting for you to go back to China, very excited to see what you make of it after years away! Thanks for the vid Tommy.

[howtoduit]

I'm 26 now and I spent 2 weeks in China with a friend in 2018.. one of my favourite holidays ever. The experiences I had in those 2 weeks were crazy haha

[DavidTheCastle]

I visited and lived in China for half a year just before 9/11 in 2001. I was 9 years old and it was the best experience of my life to this day.

[PRCVL]

Happy to see your dreams are coming true and the channel keeps growing! Keep traveling Tommy!

[garywilliams]

I lived in Putuo for 10 years, leaving 2017 . I’m thinking of visiting next year despite hearing so many negative reports so thanks for this insight. I mainly want to return to Wuxi and Nanjing !

[guanpu]

Love your laid-back style talking about the subject and approaching to the strangers you come across.

[thomasrupp]

Wonderful how easily you flip into those different worlds and situations!
Rural Africa to Shanghai to NY and so on...
And always with good background informations.
MY RESPECT Tom ! From me as a slow worldwide traveller.
What a wonderful world!

[priscillaferguson]

I wholeheartedly agree. My time being in China was the best time of my life as a Chinese American.

[dianbb]

Omg I'm so happy you're back! This is so iconic, seeing you read/speak Chinese in Africa many times and now we get to see you in the motherland, so much fun! Can't wait to see more

[JamieCowboyNo-Name]

Another masterpiece Tommy!! Loved it bud. Keep ‘em coming and stay safe out there. Thank you for your work.