What do spicy Sichuan hotpot and sunny Mediterranean beaches have in common? They’re both symbols of Chengdu and Montpellier – two cities worlds apart but united by a love for chill living.
Celebrating 43 years as sister cities, China’s western economic powerhouse and France’s bustling Mediterranean hub have built bridges through education, sports, and trade. While Chengdu fuels tech innovation and Montpellier thrives as a logistics giant
, their residents share a secret: life’s too short to rush.
Slow Living, Fast Growth
Chinese teacher Vigdis explores Montpellier’s open-air markets and historic plazas where locals sip coffee for hours . Meanwhile, French learner Celine shows Chengdu’s teahouses buzzing with mahjong tiles and the quiet charm of panda sanctuaries
. Both cities boast year-round cultural festivals – from Sichuan opera face-changing performances to Montpellier’s dance carnivals
.
\"We’re Relaxed, Not Lazy!\"
One resident laughs: \"In Chengdu, we work hard but know when to enjoy a spicy hotpot break.\" A Montpellier shop owner agrees: \"Our siestas fuel creativity!\" With 15+ joint projects in healthcare and green energy, these cities prove productivity and leisure can coexist .
Reference(s):
cgtn.com