I had no experience in kayaking, but the members were friendly and welcoming and taught me the techniques. Since then, I have traveled all over Zhejiang competing in kayaking competitions.

I was introduced to the expat community in Jiaxing via a Spanish colleague, and since then we have formed a foreigner football team and play weekly — all ages and skill levels play from over 15 countries. Football is an international language that brings everyone together.

Recently I have found myself a smart, beautiful Jiaxing girlfriend so when people ask how long I will stay in Jiaxing? I reply, I will stay in Jiaxing for many years, possibly forever.

What more can you ask for in life, if you enjoy your work, the city you live in, a loving relationship and have made friends for life?