I'm Farman Ali and my Chinese name is 王磊. I come from Pakistan and I'm currently pursuing my master's in food science at Jiangnan University. A year ago, when I received my admission letter, I honestly didn't know much about Wuxi. But today, after a year, the city feels like a second home, full of stories, memories, and experiences I want to share with you.
First days in Wuxi
When I first arrived, I only knew a few Chinese words like "你好" (hello). I still remember being confused when my friends kept saying "老师说…". I thought "Laoshi" was the name of a very popular person in China! Later, I realized it simply means "teacher". That small mistake still makes me smile.
During those early days, I visited a museum in Wuxi with my friends. It was one of my first cultural experiences in China and served as the backdrop for my first group photo here. Looking back, that picture reminds me how everything started — with curiosity, excitement, and a desire to learn.
Farman Ali and his friends in Wuxi Museum. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
Farman Ali and his friends in Wuxi. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
Experiencing Chinese traditions
Living in Wuxi gave me the chance to join many traditional events and festivals:
Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节) – tasting mooncakes with friends under the full moon.
National Day (国庆节) – seeing the spirit of unity and pride.
Spring Festival (春节) – the celebrations, lanterns, and family atmosphere left a deep impression.
Dragon Boat Festival (端午节) – I even joined a dragon boat race! We didn't win, but it felt like hiking on water — fun, challenging, and unforgettable.
These festivals weren't just holidays; they were windows into the Chinese values of family, friendship, and community.
Farman Ali joins a dragon boat race in Wuxi. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
Discovering Wuxi and beyond
In one year, I've explored many parts of Wuxi:
Nanchan Temple – where I first felt the harmony between modern development and ancient tradition.
Taihu and Lihu lakes – peaceful and vast, perfect for reflecting on life.
Wuxi Grand Theatre – modern and artistic, showcasing the city's creative side.
Three Kingdoms Park – stepping into history through films and culture.
Jiangyin Bund – where I celebrated the Dragon Boat Festival, surrounded by cheering crowds. Every place had its own beauty — sometimes quiet and simple, sometimes lively and grand.
Farman Ali in Wuxi. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
What stood out most
Adapting wasn't always easy. In the beginning, the food felt foreign, the language was hard, and I missed home. But the kindness of Wuxi people, the warmth of my friends, and the beauty of the city made me feel comfortable. Slowly, I learned not only the language but also how to use chopsticks, how to celebrate like locals, and how to see the world from a new perspective.
Looking ahead
One year passed so quickly. From not knowing Wuxi at all to now feeling a deep connection with the city, it has been a meaningful journey. I look forward to many more years of learning, exploring, and sharing my story with you.
The author, hailing from Pakistan, currently works towards a master degree in food science at Jiangnan University.
If you would like to share your Wuxi stories, then send us your writings at wuxiexpatstories@outlook.com.
