Visiting China Dispels Common Misperceptions

A look at the transition from third world to modern infrastructure and a capitalist hub
 

BEIJING – The perception of China held by Americans can be summed up as that of a third-world, communist country -- a land where everyone makes a paltry wage with no disposable income. I thought I knew what was taking place in China, but as I stepped off the jet and caught my first sight of the country, I found out how wrong my outlook had been.

Let me start at JFK Airport in New York, where we boarded a brand new Airbus operated by China Eastern Airline. This ultra-modern jet, filled to capacity with mostly Chinese, was surprise number one. Crying babies were everywhere, and their parents and families patiently traveled on our 16-hour direct flight to Shanghai.

 
During the flight, the all-Chinese staff took the time to provide exceptional service. Most of us found the Chinese food they served to be less than desirable, even somewhat gross, however the Chinese ate it up. I also found it interesting that no hard liquor was served. While some red wine was available, they ran out before the halfway point of our flight. The only other alcoholic beverage was warm Bud Light.