When Dale, a 20-something South African kindergarten teacher, moved to Chengdu in February 2024, his older cousin embarked on a mission: deliver an air fryer and check on his adaptation to Sichuan’s famously fiery lifestyle. Two years later, their reunion story is a testament to family ties and cross-cultural discovery.
"I brought him kitchen gadgets, but Chengdu’s street food stole the show," laughs the cousin, who works in media in Beijing. "We ate málà hotpot until 2 a.m. – Dale’s now a chili oil connoisseur!"
Beyond the spice, the duo visited Chengdu’s panda bases, where Dale’s students often go for field trips. "Seeing his kindergarteners’ excitement about conservation made me appreciate why he chose this path," the cousin reflects.
With 72% of young expats in Asia citing food as their top cultural bridge (per 2025 surveys), this family’s story mirrors a regional trend. As Lunar New Year 2026 wraps up, their adventure reminds us that reunions aren’t just about tradition – sometimes, they’re about sharing dan dan noodles and debating the best mapo tofu spots. 🥢✨
