Amber Cameron

Life in Nanjing,China has been very comfortable. I've lived in other places in China previously such as Beijing and Kunshan. While they were great experiences in their own ways, I personally feel Nanjing is one of the best choices I've made. This city has a perfect mix of traditional and modern aspects. For example, I can visit a temple in the morning, eat a western meal at lunch, go to the movies and eat a Chinese meal for dinner all in one day!  

When I'm not teaching at my school, I really enjoy visiting the parks and temples in Nanjing. I often go to Xuanwu Lake and walk around it for peaceful nature walks away from the bustling city. It's a nice area with long walkways, resting places and some little shops near the entrance gate if you want to buy food and some drinks. This place is particularly beautiful at night because in the distance you can see the city buildings lit up beyond the trees. 

Sometimes I also go to Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) area. There are many shops and restaurants. It is a good spot for a taste of some traditional Chinese culture. I especially enjoy the river that flows through the area near the temple. The temple has a museum inside where you can take a look at actual Chinese artifacts. Coming from an Anthropology background in school, I really like these aspects.  

I often go to Zhongshanling Park. There are many areas to wander around here. You can walk deep into nature and enjoy the serene aura of the area and explore some temples and tombs here as well.

Usually when I'm done venturing these areas I'm pretty hungry. I love hot pot and there are many good restaurants of these types in Nanjing. One of my favourite western style restaurants is called Element Fresh. They have many health drinks and amazing salads you can enjoy here.  

After I'm done eating, sometimes I like to do a little shopping. There are many malls in Nanjing... about 400. There is a huge mall in downtown Nanjing and another popular one is called Aqua City Mall.  I'll often go to Innisfree (a popular store from Korea) and some western stores like Zara or H&M.  

When I'm working I generally go to work then come home and relax. But on my free time these are the things I enjoy doing in Nanjing. As I said before I believe this city has a perfect mix of traditional and modern aspects.  I really enjoy my life here in Nanjing.