Suzhou: A Local's Guide to Not Getting Screwed.
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Yes, I feel like today's Suzhou has been 'standardized' and somewhat demonized. I still remember when I was a child, we'd visit the gardens, order a cup of green tea or a bowl of lotus root starch in the teahouse, and quietly gaze at the scenery outside, enjoying that centuries-old tranquility. When people travel, they should seek what they truly desire. Is it just about 'checking in' at those inexplicable Insta-worthy spots to prove they've been there? Do you have to eat Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish? Most people aren't used to sweet and sour fish. I don't travel often, but when I do, I do my research to find what's characteristic of the city, or I just wander aimlessly, with no specific goal, just to unwind.
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It's like not eating spicy food is a crime nowadays, and speaking Suzhou dialect is considered xenophobic.
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But many older people can't speak Mandarin, or they speak Suzhou-accented Mandarin, which is basically incomprehensible.
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Sis, will it be crowded during the summer holidays in June or July?
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Yes, it will be. Lots of families with kids. The problem is, Suzhou gets incredibly hot in June and July. People from the north might not be used to it.
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I was just telling my husband yesterday, as soon as the holidays hit, I'm going to see a flood of posts warning people to avoid Suzhou again.
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Seriously, it makes me mad seeing those. I've said it a million times, but they just have to go and do it.
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Having been there, I totally agree! After my trip, I really miss Suzhou's pastries. They have a flavor you just can't find in the north. I miss them!
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Especially the variety! As a local, I only eat one kind: 'huangsonggao' (yellow pine cake). It's sweet, not oily or greasy. Older folks like 'zhuyougao' (lard cake), and they even like to dip it in egg batter and fry it.
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Ningbo folks say nothing; they just silently steer clear.
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Haha, 'Gangboning' (Ningbo people)!
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Seriously, I keep seeing posts warning about Suzhou... and then people talk about crab roe noodles. Where are you going to find fresh crab at this time of year? It's definitely all frozen!
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Sis, what can I wear for May Day? What's the temperature like?
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Excuse me, I'm planning to take an elderly person in a wheelchair. Where would be a good place to see Suzhou's scenery? I was originally thinking of Humble Administrator's Garden, but your post has made me reconsider. So, any suggestions on where to go?
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I'd advise against it. Except for modern-style cultural sites, ancient attractions are very difficult for wheelchairs. It'll likely be a very poor experience.