Australian Scott: Baoshan brings happiness into my life
Scott, originally from Australia, has resided in China for 12 years and is currently employed as an English teacher at Guangli Bilingual Kindergarten in Baoshan. During his four years in Baoshan, according to Scott, the local pleasant climate, traditional customs, and amicable people have contributed to a fulfilling and joyful life for him.
Scott (right) and his Yunnan friend.
When still living in Jiangsu, China, Scott embarked on a trip to Yunnan with a friend and was captivated by the stunning landscapes and hospitable locals of Lijiang and Shangri-La. “After returning to Jiangsu, I made up my mind to seek employment in Yunnan,” Scott said.
In March 2020, Scott was recommended to Baoshan Guangli Bilingual Kindergarten to take on the role of an English teacher. Ever since, he has resided and worked in Baoshan, growing fond of the locale.
At 7:40 a.m. every morning, Scott can be spotted at the kindergarten gate, welcoming young children with his warm smile as they arrive for the day.
“Teaching for 30 years has allowed Scott to cultivate his distinctive teaching approach,” remarked Yang Juan, a colleague at the kindergarten. “His innovative methods create a lively and relaxed classroom environment, endearing him to the young students.” Scott excels at intertwining musical instruments with language, often incorporating performances to aid children in remembering vocabulary and fostering an enjoyable learning atmosphere.
For the past four years, Scott has been dedicated to studying Chinese and has advanced rapidly. “Since arriving in Baoshan, I have grown fond of the clear blue skies, fluffy white clouds, and pleasant climate here. I have no desire to leave!” Scott said in Mandarin, tinged with a local accent. Each morning, he awakens with enthusiasm and gratitude, cherishing his life in this place.
Scott teaches English at Baoshan Guangli Bilingual Kindergarten.
Qinglong Street in the historic town of Banqiao served as a crucial hub along the Southern Silk Road, and it is a spot Scott visits regularly on weekends. “I enjoy the street immensely and often spend time there on weekends, even forming a close bond with a local family,” said Scott. He has leased a small courtyard in Banqiao where he resides during his time off.
Scott frequently strolls along Qinglong Street, browsing the shops for intangible cultural heritage products like Yongchang Go pieces, paper god rubbings, and silver-inlaid black copperware. Upon spotting Scott, shopkeepers never miss the opportunity to greet him warmly. He enjoys stepping into intriguing shops, engaging in conversations with the proprietors to delve deeper into the rich local history and culture.
“Residing in Banqiao is truly delightful!” remarked Scott, emphasizing his fondness for savoring Pu’er tea and his newfound love for the distinctive Dai cuisine.
Scott has a deep affection for African drums, ukulele, guitar, and various other musical instruments. His passion for music has led him to forge friendships with local music enthusiasts. “We became friends with Scott shortly after his arrival in Baoshan. He frequents our place every weekend to play instruments and sing, sharing his emotions and fostering cultural exchanges,” said Liu Han, the proprietor of a shop named Drunken Black Dragon on Qinglong Street, adding that music has the power to unite individuals of diverse backgrounds and nationalities, creating a sense of kinship.
Whether they are colleagues, music-related acquaintances, or strangers encountered along the way, their warmth and readiness to help others have truly moved Scott. “The various ethnic minorities here wear stunning traditional attire, perfect for dancing!” Scott remarked, highlighting how Baoshan has upheld a myriad of distinctive ethnic traditions, allowing him to appreciate the profundity of Chinese traditional culture.
Text by Yunnan Daily
Translated by YNTA