Welcome to our China!

I know you're out there. Lurking, reading blogs, trying to get a glimpse of what your life will be like for the next two years. I don't blame you I was the same way this time last year. Less than 2 weeks, right?

Here is my advice for any soon to be US-China Friendship Volunteers:
-You can find almost everything you want for much cheaper here. Don't panic that you can't fit everything in those two suitcases. I'm wracking my brain trying to think of things I couldn't find in Chengdu and all I'm coming up with is chickpeas and Korean buckwheat noodles. And I bet I could find both of those if I cared enough.
-Keeping the first tip in mind, SAVE ALL THE MONEY YOU CAN. Don't buy a whole bunch of stuff for China/Peace Corps, get it here. They will throw so much money at you during staging. If you don't already have a lot saved up, I'd definitely try to save it for traveling during service. I just bought a ticket to Malaysia for 60 USD. It is incredibly cheap to fly to Southeast Asia.
-I'm really glad I brought a planner.
-I'm really glad I brought a BPA free Nalgene. They have Chinese knockoffs but it's not the same. And everywhere you go you will be offered hot water. It's nice to have a Nalgene.
-Host family gift worries? Chinese people take a lot of pride in sharing the food or snacks that supposedly originate from their hometown. It's all usually the same type of thing; dried tofu or meat, tea, etc. If there is any kind of snack you can pack and claim it's from your 'hometown' it would probably make a nice gift.
-Anything fun for school. Sometimes classes and English corner can get a little dry. Also, I think a good frisbee should be required packing for Peace Corps volunteers worldwide.

Before you leave, take one long look at the blue sky.
See you guys soon! I'll be the Asian one!