My initial impression of Chengdu came from Zhao Lei's song; that laid-back 'oh-e-oh' vibe always made me feel like it was a truly wonderful city. And it really is! The warmth and hospitality of Chengdu locals are best experienced through their hotpot, where they'll tell you 'this is how we eat here' and 'everything can be cooked in hotpot.' My visit during the height of summer (Leo season) meant Chengdu was scorching. You'd step out, take two steps, and be drenched in sweat â definitely a test of one's fitness!
Before you even finish what's in your bowl, they're already adding fresh duck blood or seasonal vegetables. They even specifically ordered a bowl of 'shrimp strips' for me to try. I was just about to decline, explaining that I'm not particularly fond of seafood and wouldn't usually order it myself, but the 'shrimp strips' were brought out anyway, with an encouraging 'Just try it!' whispered in my ear.
Looking at the full bowl, I cautiously took a bite, bracing myself for the fishy taste I disliked. To my surprise, it tasted like sweet syrup! I immediately asked, 'Isn't this supposed to be shrimp strips? Why is there no shrimp?' The server replied, 'This is glutinous rice flour... grinding tea sets... I'll achieve great things...' (Oops, wrong script! Back to the point.) He then clarified that it's glutinous rice flour molded into the shape of shrimp, hence the name 'shrimp strips'. They're boiled, then brown sugar is added, and for just 6 yuan, your 'shrimp strips' are ready!
Chengdu isn't just hot in temperature and passionate in spirit; it's also wonderfully spicy!
My buddy in Chengdu loves introducing his out-of-town pals to all sorts of unique local experiences. You could see his style from his comment, 'Well, she's a girl, so anything's possible!' Business discussions could be wrapped up in two hours, and even the hotpot session, with a couple of drinks, would be finished in just an hour.
Later, on the way back to the company, we passed a street by one of Chengdu's two major rivers â forgive me, I'm terrible with landmark names. The rivers were teeming with fish and fishermen, while the street was alive with bars and what they playfully called 'bears' (referring to a certain type of patron). They called it 'Chengdu's unique flavor,' quickly adding, 'But don't worry, our company's moral compass is perfectly straight!'
I need to get back to work now; I originally intended to write a 1,000-2,000 word review!
Finally, a quick note: this hotel is excellent, and breakfast is served until 2 PM!