Dear Wang Dong,

      I hope this letter finds you well. Returning from Xi'an, I carry its essence within me, a blend of the ancient and the modern. Xi'an, as you suggested, is best explored alone, allowing its quiet whispers to guide you. Yet, my solitary journey was unexpectedly interrupted by the lively Western Forum in Chengdu, a vibrant contrast to the city's ancient heart.

      The contrasting slogans – Chengdu's welcoming embrace and Xi'an's determined declaration of leadership in western development – highlight the tension between tradition and progress. The ancient stories interwoven with modern broadcasts felt like a sudden leap through time, a delightfully surprising juxtaposition.

      My stay near the Bell and Drum Towers was a sensory feast. The Muslim Street, with its simple charm and delicious snacks, evoked a wave of nostalgia. Even the bustling, modernized restaurants like Tongshengxiang, with its blend of traditional Hui cuisine and contemporary management, held a unique charm. The atmosphere was warm and lively, reminiscent of a Singaporean hawker center.

      My attempt at a heroic ascent of Hua Shan was amusingly interrupted by the constant cries of "dangerous!" from fellow tourists glued to their phones, a stark contrast to the quiet contemplation I had hoped for.

      Yet, even amidst the modern buzz, Xi'an's ancient soul shone through. The juxtaposition of ancient architecture and modern advertisements, the young people chasing trends, all spoke of a city embracing change while honoring its past. Xi'an, it seemed, was renewing its identity, stepping confidently onto the world stage.

      On my flight home, I struck up a conversation with a fellow Xi'an native, now working in Singapore, about to become a Singaporean son-in-law. The conversation highlighted the bittersweet reality of talent leaving the west. But then I thought of Tang Sanzang's long journey, his years of learning before returning to translate the scriptures – a journey that echoed the bittersweet longing in my own heart.

With warmest regards,

Thierry