The thoughts of A N Shepperd
This is my blog, insight into my travels, writing and life experiences through my eyes
Another New Year
Although for many of us the new year in the west and its festivities are past and we are back to work, in Asia and especially China, its very different.
The Christmas run in around the world
. In many European countries, Christmas eve is the big event with presents and big meal and people returning to working life. In many Mediterranean countries, the next big holiday is the 6th January, Epiphany often a day with presents.
Sardinia
The Christmas run in around the world As the big day draws near, we in the UK and much of the world, get ready for 25th December, Christmas Day. In the UK we tend to have a big build up and probably it’s the one main holiday where much of the UK stops, with the...
Ferragosto
If you like parties and foodie events with lots of great food and wine. You will almost certainly love Ferragosto.
Back In China Again – Old Friends and New Adventures
We have just come back from our first visit to China since COVID. We had a grand road trip planned, as well as seeing family and friends. A key gap in my China experience was Zhangjiajie in Hunan province, one of the film locations for the Avatar movie. I'd seen the...
Going Back Soon…
It will be fascinating to see what has changed, what has advanced, the atmosphere. In my experience progress in China is incredibly rapid and changes are notable after gaps of a few months let alone 5 years
Life As An Author
So, with the book finished and so many technical production and layout matters concluded, my reflections are that it is very hard to complete and publish a book. It may or may not surprise you to hear that industry stats anecdotally say that 75% of books are never...
Five Places To Visit In China
With so much to see and experience, it can be overwhelming choosing where to go. These are my top five places to visit in China. Beijing As an obvious international gateway into China, Beijing is a great place to start and end your journey from just about anywhere in...
Travelling In China
Although I have mentioned this previously, travel in China is usually a treat and definitely part of your adventure. City transport is well-served in most major cities with an underground metro. Taxis are frequent and very affordable, so buses and the additional...
Spiritual Symbolism and Chinese Zodiac Animals
One interesting aspect of Chinese culture is the alternative zodiac used in China. This is characterised by a set of 12 animals that follow this order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. There is a 12-year cycle...