I left Beijing for Chengdu in September 2013, hoping to find a more agreeable way of living. And I was sure that it was necessary to stay away from the capital in order to fully understand and experience China. When I first visited China a dozen years ago, I had a short stay in Chengdu. The city gave me an impression of hospitality and leisure. It was the Chinese Lunar New Year then and I was impressed by the crowds in Wenshu Monastery and by the atmosphere in the teahouses. However, with my journey continuing toward Yunnan province, I quickly moved on from Chengdu.

In 2013, I was working in Beijing but was looking for a chance to leave the city – it was fascinating in many respects but too big for me. At the suggestion of a friend, I applied for a job at the Chengdu agency of Campus France. My choice was encouraged by many friends who had studied in Chengdu and highly recommended Sichuan.

In addition, since I am very fond of Tibetan culture and hiking, Chengdu seemed to be an interesting possibility. Therefore, I set foot in Chengdu again after more than 10 years. The city had changed far beyond my imagination. After spending sometime adapting to the local cuisine, I soon felt at home in Chengdu, thanks to hospitality of the Sichuan people.

Living in Chengdu in the 2010s is a chance for everyone who wants to observe the changes taking place in China today. Profiting from the Go West Strategy decided by the central government and the consequent strong supports, Sichuan has experienced an unprecedented economic and cultural development, which has been reflected notably in the increasing degree of opening up to the outside world. In the respect of consular services, more and more countries have opened consulates in Chengdu: Israel, Poland, New Zealand, etc.

The General Consulate of France in Chengdu was established in 2006 and its business has grown fast. It now has about 40 staff and is the third largest French consulate in China, following Shanghai and Guangzhou. It has issued more than 100,000 French visas in 2015, one of the most among the French consulates all around the world. France and Southwest China have also enhanced cooperation in education. A large number of Chinese students further their studies in France. Our consulate also organizes colorful cultural exchange activities, which contribute to the friendly relations between France and Sichuan province.

I have been the press officer at the General Consulate of France in Chengdu for four months. I am honored because this job offers me the opportunity to keep track of Chengdu's development and get to know local friends or expats working in various fields. Chengdu is a vibrant city. I plan to stay here for some years to better familiarize myself with Sichuan.