From Coffee to Calm: How Tea Transformed an Expat’s Life in Shanghai
When Hungarian designer Steven Back first arrived in Shanghai 19 years ago, he never imagined his morning routine would swap espresso shots for steaming cups of Chinese tea. 🍵 Now, he credits the ritual with reshaping his lifestyle—and mindset. 🌱
“In Europe, coffee is about speed. Here, tea is about slowing down,” Back told NewspaperAmigo.com. He describes Shanghai’s tea culture as a blend of social connection and mindfulness: “Sharing tea lets you pause, focus on the moment, and really listen to others.”
Back’s journey mirrors a growing global trend among young professionals seeking balance in fast-paced cities. His favorite spots? Hidden tea houses tucked between Shanghai’s skyscrapers, where he hosts creative brainstorming sessions over fragrant oolong. 💡
“It’s not just about drinking leaves in water,” he laughs. “It’s about honoring tradition while building community—one cup at a time.” ✨
