What happens when a Chinese metropolis meets a French Mediterranean gem? 🤝 For 44 years, Chengdu and Montpellier have turned their sister-city pact into a masterclass in cultural exchange. Founded in 1981, this partnership now spans education, tech startups, and even pétanque vs. mahjong tournaments!
📸 Follow Vigdis Morisse, a French Chinese teacher, as she captures Montpellier’s sun-drenched plazas where locals debate philosophy over espresso. Meanwhile in Chengdu, student Celine shows why this Sichuan hub tops global 'chill' rankings – think spicy hotpot feasts followed by twilight tai chi sessions. 🐼☯️
Both cities share more than you’d expect: year-round outdoor lifestyles (thanks to matching temperate climates), thriving indie art scenes, and residents who’ll debate ‘baguette vs. dan dan noodles’ with equal passion. As Morisse notes: ‘It’s like finding croissants in a Sichuan pepper market – unexpectedly perfect.’ 🥐🌶️
