The fact that you expect some sort of a nod from someone just because they're laowai is damn offensive. Besides, have you lived in a big city before KM? Most folks prize their privacy. Walking down the street does not always mean social hour. What makes you so special or insecure to expect recognition from someone/anyone at any time? A bit cynical to say, but you're just another person walking on the sidewalk. Who gives a shit if you want to make eye contact? We're all on our way to doing whatever we're doing. Quit making this a laowai issue and look inside yourself. Why do you need laowai attention? Why do you expect it as well?
On the other hand, you're onto something... I came here to enjoy a bit of anonymity and cultural diversion. When someone who shares a higher percentage of my cultural background comes into view, I'm reminded of why I came to China: to enjoy something different. If you're less different, you remind me of home. I'm glad to be away from home. So when avoiding your gaze (when you might have played that game with me) maybe I was avoiding the gaze of all the fat lazy non-voting caucasions I share a gene or two with back in the U.S. Don't take it personally. I don't want to look at you. OK? Enjoy the wonderful weather. I am...
So Danger Records launches in Kunming
Posted bySofa King Danger!
Great Apes release first ever album
Posted byHi all, David from the Great Apes. Thanks so much for an awesome night at the Camel and the Mask. Thanks to Dengling and Alex from both spots in making it all happen. Thanks to the Ferraris from Hell for putting on an awesome show. Thanks to KM for supporting local music!
Kunming residents rally against chemical plant
Posted byI was at the protest and the police presence was pretty damn intimidating. However, the people were undeterred, even though the actual AMOUNT of people was quite disappointing. The government's measures to reduce the level of participation worked pretty well. The energy from the small crowd, however was really great. I did not participate for several obvious reasons, yet I was photographed a bunch and those pix ended up all over the internets. I'll let the foreign community know of the repurcussions...
I agree many many of the recent posts about the midguidedness of the protests. I think its possible that the Kunming populace could keep the factory in check regarding safeguarding the environment, so its better to for it to be constructed here. If its out in some rural area, there will be a less-educated populace with no power to make sure the factory is run according to environmental regulations. Local officials in more rural areas are easier to corrupt and there's a lot less press.
I'm a KM resident, my wife and I own a business here and I love this city, but I think there are much much much more pressing issues to demonstrate against in this country than the construction of a factory nearby.
Around Town: Business closings during Spring Festival
Posted byLost Garden restaurant closed from the 9th to the 15th. Thanks guys!
Giveaway: Tiger Beer Battle of the Bands 2012
Posted byLocal band, the Great Apes are playing a few songs at 7pm as well.