For our eleventh episode we chat with Michelle Zhang and Pat Tietgens, a couple who first met in Chengdu and now live and work together in California where they run The Society of Heart’s Delight, an organization based out of a stunning historic landmark building in San Jose which facilitates events and discussions for the Bay Area Chinese professionals community.
Located in the heart of eastern Sichuan, Chengdu is the capital of this southwestern province. Geographic and political remoteness have always contributed to the free-spirited nature of the Sichuan people, and the modern cosmopolitan nature of Chengdu reflects this.
As the economic hub of Southwestern China, but also the home to a large, thriving community of students and intellectuals, Chengdu embodies liberal thinking and progressiveness across a wide range of interests and pursuits. Chengdu’s identity as a thriving metropolis, epicenter for preserving Giant Pandas, and source for some of Sichuan’s most delicious cuisine, makes it one of the most interesting cities to visit in China.
Listen to Episode 11:
Episode Overview:
- 00:53 – Introduction to Michelle and Pat
- 03:30 – Overview of Chengdu
- 05:05 – What does Chengdu have to offer
- 08:00 – Chengdu as a luxury goods destination
- 09:02 – Chengdu’s sense of community
- 10:52 – Chengdu food and snacks
- 13:28 – Pat and Michelle’s Chengdu favorites
- 14:51 – Chengdu’s main travel draws and Michelle and Pat’s suggestions
- 23:25 – Michelle, Pat & Mei’s top hotel recommendation for Chengdu
- 24:15 – Last travel tips and best season to visit
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Places, resources and tips mentioned in the podcast:
Michelle and Pat’s Chengdu Favorites :
- Huanhuaxi park (浣花溪公园)
- Wangzhan park (望江公园)
- Jiuyuanqiao bar street (边廊桥) and lake
- Chuanchuan (串串)
- Mantou (steamed buns) (馒头)
Michelle, Pat and Mei’s Top Chengdu Hotel Recommendation :
