It was a great feeling being back in Shanghai – the city still feels like home. I was fortunate in that my hotel was within ten minutes walk of Jiaotong (the university I studied at), so I was free to wander my old stomping grounds. Before I left campus, I wondered if it would be difficult coming back because of seeing ghosts. Not so. I have many great memories that kept popping up (nearly every block of the immediate vicinity has its own story), and it felt terrific walking around reminiscing.

I had a (much needed) haircut at my favorite parlor, and was thrilled to see many of the same faces. I am fairly certain a couple of them recognized me because I saw surprised smiles. Additionally, I knew exactly where to go to find DVDs, get a new AC adaptor for my computer, and find excellent food.