We Were China Maxxing Before It Was Cool
Everyone on TikTok is suddenly in their "most Chinese time." We've been living ours for three years — with Mandarin lessons, regular trips to China, and a five-year-old who thinks she's Chinese.
Magda Sawyer
Posts by Magda Sawyer
![Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Hotels & Neighborhoods [2026 Guide]](/content/images/size/w320/2026/03/IMG_6462.jpeg)
Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Hotels & Neighborhoods [2026 Guide]
Your guide to Hong Kong's best neighbourhoods and hotels for every budget — from the harbour views of Tsim Sha Tsui to the local energy of Mong Kok.
![Where to Stay in Harbin: Best Areas and Hotels [2026 Guide]](/content/images/size/w320/2026/03/IMG_1227.jpeg)
Where to Stay in Harbin: Best Areas and Hotels [2026 Guide]
Tested guide to Harbin's best areas and hotels. Central Street for sightseeing and food, Songbei for the Ice Festival — honest recommendations at every budget from someone who's visited twice.
![Where to Stay in Guangzhou: Best Areas and Hotels [2026 Guide]](/content/images/size/w320/2026/03/IMG_4073.jpeg)
Where to Stay in Guangzhou: Best Areas and Hotels [2026 Guide]
Tested guide to Guangzhou's best neighbourhoods and hotels. From Canton Tower luxury to old-town Liwan charm to Chimelong theme parks — where to base yourself for every travel style and budget.
Traveling China with a Baby: Everything We Learned Over 6 Trips (2026)
Can you really travel China with a baby? We did it with a 4.5-month-old — here's everything we learned about feeding, diapers, transport, and what to expect from Chinese people (spoiler: they'll love your baby).
Pimsleur Chinese Review: The Audio Course That Changed How I Learn Mandarin
Pimsleur Chinese is an audio-based Mandarin course that builds speaking confidence fast. After using it across multiple levels before trips to China, here's my honest review — what it does well, where it falls short, and who it's best for.
Shanghai Travel Guide: Plan Your Trip to China's Most International City
Everything you need to know — when to visit, where to stay, what to eat & practical tips for independent travellers
Best Things to Do in Shanghai — Must-See Sights & Local Favourites
Get to know Shanghai beyond The Bund — our guide to the city's best attractions, hidden gems and neighbourhood walks
Visiting Shanghai with Kids: What to Know Before You Go
Everything you need to know about travelling to Shanghai with kids: where to stay, what to do and our honest take on whether it's worth it
Why I Fly Air China to China (And Why You Should Too)
The smartest way to fly from Europe to China in 2025 — shorter flights, lower prices, and why European airlines are no longer your best option
How to Get Around China Without Speaking Chinese: Translation Apps & Communication Tips
A comprehensive guide to the must-have apps for translation and managing common communication issues
Beyond Avatar: Discovering Zhangjiajie Brocade Museum
Introduction to the hidden gem of Zhangjiajie region + tips for visitors