cover of episode Yes, Santa Visits China

Yes, Santa Visits China

2024/12/24
logo of podcast The Bridge to China

The Bridge to China

People
F
Frank Stonier
J
Jason Smith
Topics
Jason Smith: 美国圣诞节是大型节日,购物中心装饰精美,节日音乐持续数周,家庭聚会频繁。 在中国,大城市对春节和圣诞节的庆祝活动都比较多,小城镇则较少,这与美国的情况相似。 他好奇在中国生活久了,对春节的感受如何变化,以及对圣诞节的庆祝方式。 他询问了在中国庆祝圣诞节的具体方式,以及中国民众对圣诞节的看法。 他谈到了美国文化中电影的重要性,以及圣诞节相关的电影。 他询问了在中国庆祝元旦的情况,以及春节期间的活动。 他询问了在美国不同地区庆祝春节的情况,以及在中国和美国庆祝彼此文化的异同。 他询问了在中国购买节日用品的方式,以及对中国新年习俗的看法。 他询问了在中国庆祝节日期间是否会感到思乡,以及如何缓解思乡之情。 Frank Stonier: 在中国,圣诞节庆祝活动每年有所不同,有时与朋友聚会,有时在家或其他地方进行装饰。 中国商场和餐厅会在圣诞节期间进行装饰,但庆祝活动不如美国那样普遍。 他有时会在家里庆祝圣诞节,但并非每年都如此,通常由妻子决定。 除购物元素外,中国民众对圣诞节的公开庆祝并不明显,但有些人会表达节日问候。 他有时会观看圣诞节相关的电影。 他逐渐开始欣赏春节的团聚和文化活动,并参与了一些文化活动。 他分享了在美国不同地区庆祝春节的经历,以及在中国和美国庆祝彼此文化的异同。 他主要通过淘宝等电商平台购买节日用品。 在中国庆祝节日期间,有时会感到思乡,但通常不会过度,他会通过一些方式来缓解思乡之情。 他分享了在中国进行街头卡拉OK的经历。 他谈到了在不同国家庆祝节日的感受,以及对家庭生活的影响。 他分享了在中国生活和工作的经历,以及对未来的展望。

Deep Dive

Key Insights

Why did Dr. Frank Stonier receive national recognition in China?

Dr. Frank Stonier helped in the effort to save Bebe, a district of Chongqing, from a forest fire. This led to his appearance on Chinese national media like Xinhua and CGTN, and a statue was made in his honor.

Why does Chongqing have a reputation as a cyberpunk-style city?

Chongqing is known for its unique architectural style, which includes elaborate building designs, dense urban landscapes, and a mix of modern and traditional elements, creating a visually striking and futuristic atmosphere, especially in areas like Hongyadong.

Why do Chinese people sometimes bring small gifts during Christmas?

In Chongqing, Dr. Stonier has received small gifts like Christmas cakes or crafts from Chinese friends, indicating that while Christmas is not a major holiday, people do acknowledge it with small gestures and decorations, particularly in public spaces and malls.

Why do some Chinese cities embrace STEAM education?

STEAM education, which includes art alongside science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, is becoming popular in China as it helps engage students and provides a more holistic learning experience. Dr. Stonier has observed this trend in several schools, including a high school in Guilin where STEAM is prominently displayed.

Why does Dr. Stonier recommend caroling as a cultural activity in China?

Dr. Stonier finds caroling a fun and engaging way to celebrate Christmas in China, especially in public areas where it can attract a curious audience. He believes it adds a festive touch and allows foreigners to participate in a holiday tradition while living abroad.

Why does Dr. Stonier suggest Americans consider studying in China?

Dr. Stonier recommends studying in China because of the favorable policies for foreign students, particularly Americans. Many universities offer full rides, covering tuition, room, board, and a stipend, often in English-taught programs. Despite this, few American students apply.

Why is Chongqing famous for its hot pot?

Chongqing is renowned for its hot pot, which is characterized by its use of Sichuan peppercorns, known for their numbing effect. The city's hot pot is famous for its unique flavors and spice levels, making it a must-try for visitors.

Why does Dr. Stonier feel that art is crucial in STEAM education?

Art is crucial in STEAM education because it enhances engagement and provides a visual and creative way to explore complex scientific and mathematical concepts. Dr. Stonier has found that integrating art makes learning more enjoyable and accessible, even for young children.

Why does Dr. Stonier plan to apply for a green card soon?

Dr. Stonier plans to apply for a green card to facilitate easier travel within China, particularly at train stations and airports. The green card simplifies the process by allowing him to use RFID chips and choose shorter lines.

Why does Dr. Stonier encourage Americans to travel through China's high-speed rail system?

Dr. Stonier encourages Americans to use China's high-speed rail system because it is affordable, comfortable, and allows for a more enjoyable travel experience compared to flying. The trains offer ample legroom and connect major cities efficiently.

Chapters
This chapter introduces Dr. Frank Stonier, an American professor in Chongqing, China, and recounts his journey to China, his experience fighting a forest fire, and the unexpected creation of a statue in his honor. It touches upon his family's reaction and his own reflections on this unique experience.
  • Dr. Frank Stonier's move to Chongqing, China
  • His role in fighting a forest fire
  • The creation of a statue in his honor

Shownotes Transcript

We invite American Professor Frank Stonier on to discuss his life in China and how he celebrates Christmas from the other side of the world. Frank lives in Chongqing, a cyberpunk-style city in Southwest China. We talk about the holiday spirit and the forth coming Chinese Spring Festival! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy) for more information.