Everyone knows how it feels to relocate to another country. It is a vast of emotions running through one’s veins and mind. It is from being thrilled to the deepest pits of anxiety. Of course, these feelings are always the same going to a place you do not know. I felt like this moving to the USA, too. However, it is not anything that lasts forever. On the one hand, these are great feelings. On the other hand, you want them to go away, already!

You are about to leave your comfort zone. Your safe place! All the things that are familiar to you. Your habits!

Now, your journey starts. I have to say these were the most nerve-wracking 72 hours of my life. Or at least, it felt like it at the very moment of happening. I already felt overwhelmed at the airport in Frankfurt, Germany. One thing I will not change the next time flying overseas is the flight carrier, even if I have to pay a little more. I think it gives you some sense of security, control, and comfort.

After 11 hours of flying from Germany to Guangzhou, everything moved smoothly at the airport. Yes, it was a little confusing. Nevertheless, it was not too hard to get where I had to go. Except for signing into the internet, that did not happen as it should. I also thought I could use my phone card from Germany. Well, nope! Luckily, it was not a big issue because Vanilla was waiting for me to pick me up. I think she was very friendly and welcoming. Moreover, Vanilla is a sharp young woman who adapted to the arising difficulties with ease. She was also very patient with me because when I am highly stressed, I get very timid and passive.

You have to do a lot of things in a short time. There is no space and time for a jet lag

hangover. I felt exhausted, but you will hang in there for a few days. And it was what it was. I assure you your stress hormones will keep you going.

Things might be a little easier in cities with more ex-pats than in Wuhan and other cities like it. There was not much to find on the internet about Wuhan, while, and it seems, most expatriates prefer Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.

Lucky me, I do not have to start work the next day, and I can explore the city and, yes, sleep in!

There is much more to say but to sum it up. Since I arrived, I have experienced nothing but kindness. I am thrilled to have this opportunity granted by the Republic of China. And, of course, the help I received from MGTS and its staff. They made you feel welcome. They were friendly and helpful. Even though “it's my work,” I never felt like being just a number when Vanilla guided me through the jungle of bureaucracy. When you come, you will see what I mean.