My journey here began in 2017, when I first arrived. Although I am from London, I was overwhelmed by the sheer size and scale of everything. It wasn't just the buildings; the pavements, menus, crowds, lights, and almost everything else seemed bigger. However, with such expansive space comes greater access.

Soon, I discovered that it was much easier here to find opportunities, meet like-minded friends and discover things I might enjoy. Every day felt almost like an adventure. I could discover something new while looking for an old favorite. I could find something I missed from London while simultaneously exploring somewhere completely new.

But adventure can only keep you in one place for so long. So, I asked myself: why am I here? What is it that I really enjoy?

And I realized that I love being here. And a huge part of that is down to Guangzhou itself. It pushes me to be better, encourages me to explore more, and constantly gives me reasons to challenge myself.

I think that, having lived here for so long, I have made the local work ethic part of my own identity. I have also begun to realize just how important hard work is in this part of the world. For example, the harder you work, the more I honestly feel the city embraces you. People here may wear flip-flops and dress casually, but the work ethic is incredible. And I love it. You have the hustle and bustle of a big city, combined with the casualness usually associated with the countryside. Yet another contrast that defines Guangzhou.

I have witnessed the development of more metro lines and additional airport terminals. Looking to the future, I see further infrastructure and policy developments that I believe will bring even greater opportunities and convenience to the people who live here. This is another reason why I continue to call Guangzhou home and why I have enjoyed my time here so much.

Patrick O'Donovan at a public consultation with a Guangzhou volunteer service team. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

One of the most eye-opening experiences for me came two years ago, when I had the opportunity to travel around Guangzhou's different districts and see how their development and openness toward international expatriates and visitors connect them.