A Peruvian student in China was struck by the strong sense of safety she felt even "in the smallest details" during her eight months living in the country.
As an audiovisual communication student, Anna Paula Peralta often carries her filming equipment wherever she goes. Before coming to China, carrying valuable gear meant being constantly on alert, but in Shanghai, where she studied, that worry completely disappeared.
Whether on a crowded subway or on a late-night street, she never had to fear theft, because everything was orderly, the streets were brightly lit, and friendly security personnel were always nearby.
"What really surprised me was the sense of safety in everyday life. For example, in public transportation, be it subways, trains or buses, even during crowded hours, I never felt the fear of being robbed or losing my belongings, because everything was always very organized and there was a visible security presence, which gave me a sense of calm. Another thing that left an impression on me was the nightlife. The streets were bright and full of life, with buildings lighting up the city and technology present in every corner, creating an atmosphere that felt both vibrant and reassuring. I could stay out late exploring the city without fear, walking through iconic places, watching life continue as usual, even after the day had ended. That’s when I understood that safety is not only a daytime feeling, but something that also allows you to move about peacefully at night," said the student.
She remarked that the safe environment allowed her to focus more intently on her creative work and freely explore the city late at night. That has made her eager to share her experiences with people back home.
"If a friend asked me if living in China is safe, I wouldn’t answer with statistics, but with my experience of being able to walk with my equipment without fear, focusing on what I love doing, enjoy the moment, and above all, feeling a sense of calm in something as simple as exploring the landscapes. Living in China was an experience that allowed me to see life from a different perspective, where safety is not only visible but also felt in the smallest details. And it was precisely that calm that allowed me to slow down, observe and connect with everything around me, with every landscape along the way. For me, that says it all," Peralta said.
Life in China gives new perspective on meaning of safety for Peruvian student
