Recently, my husband and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to China, flying into Guangdong and making our way to Beijing. From the breathtaking historical sites to locking in our eco-friendly beauty manufacturer, the trip was packed with exciting and eye-opening experiences. And, if you’re curious about our journey, check out our TikTok stories and Facebook Reels for behind-the-scenes fun!
Exploring the Shaolin Temple
Our first stop was the iconic Shaolin Temple—the birthplace of Chinese martial arts. Known for its deep-rooted traditions and discipline, we learned about the story of a man so determined to train in Shaolin that he cut off his own arm, staining the ground red with his blood to prove his dedication. This powerful legend demonstrates the intense commitment and perseverance that the Shaolin Temple symbolizes. If you’re a fan of martial arts or historical Chinese culture, this is a must-visit.
A Walk Through Tiananmen Square
Next, we visited Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and an essential stop in Beijing. This monumental space is at the heart of some of China’s most significant historical events, including the 1989 pro-democracy protests. Standing in the square, surrounded by history, we couldn’t help but reflect on the profound importance of this location. If you’re traveling to Beijing, this is one stop you shouldn’t miss.
Conquering the Great Wall of China
From Tiananmen Square, we ventured to one of the greatest wonders of the world—the Great Wall of China. Spanning over 21,000 kilometers, the wall was originally built to protect China from invasions. Walking along the wall was a humbling experience, reminding us of the strength and determination that built this incredible structure. It’s one of the best tourist attractions in China for both its history and breathtaking views.
Discovering Craftsmanship at the Jade Factory
Our journey continued at a Jade Factory, where we gained a whole new appreciation for the traditional Chinese art of jade carving. It was inspiring to see how skills and craftsmanship are passed down through generations, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive. Jade is not just a stone in China; it symbolizes purity and moral integrity.
A Taste of Traditional Chinese Food and Tea
Of course, one of the most unforgettable parts of our trip was the traditional Chinese food. From dumplings to hotpot, each meal was an adventure for the taste buds. One highlight was attending a traditional tea ceremony, where we learned the art of slowing down and appreciating the moment—a refreshing change from the fast-paced lifestyle we’re so used to.
Fun at Universal Studios Beijing
And yes, we made sure to have some fun too! A trip to Universal Studios in Beijing gave Kaylin the chance to geek out at Hogwarts, complete with wand shopping and butterbeer. For any Harry Potter fans, this is an experience you can’t miss. It’s a magical moment right in the middle of China!
Surviving the Heat and Chaos
The weather? Insane. It felt like 44 degrees with 100% humidity, and even the rain couldn’t cool us down. As for the driving—now I get why Chinese driving has a bit of a reputation. The roads were packed with cars, and driving lanes seemed optional! Cars, bikes, and scooters were going in every direction, and even footpaths weren’t safe from vehicles. Despite the chaos, it was all part of the experience.
Attending the International Hair Show
We also had the chance to attend the 14th Anniversary International Hair Show, where we were mobbed everywhere we went! People were excited to see us, especially when they found out we were from Australia. We were treated like celebrities, with people stopping us constantly for photos. It was fun, and quite the confidence boost! I even wore short shorts—something I never do—and felt completely empowered, with strangers telling me, “You’re beautiful.”
Locking in Our Eco-Friendly Manufacturer
One of the biggest highlights of the trip? We locked in our eco-friendly beauty manufacturer in China! Our partner imports Australian tea tree for our products because, as they said, “Your soil is rich.” Knowing that our sustainable beauty products are built on high-quality Australian ingredients gives us a great sense of pride, and we’re excited to continue this partnership.
A Life-Changing Experience in China
China wasn’t just a vacation—it was a life-changing experience. From the rich history and incredible food to the excitement of securing our business partnership, I found a place I was once hesitant about but grew to love. China now holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in our journey. Stay tuned for more updates from Cooper Delivered!
Stay eco and stay fabulous,
