Decade of discovery

The Hanoi team is riding on Vietnam's first light rail metro system. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Her fascination with architecture found fulfillment during the trip. She marveled at the engineering feats of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the distinctive design of the Guangzhou Tower. As a hub of economic development and international trade, Guangzhou has a rich history, serving as the starting point for the Maritime Silk Road.

"The Maritime Silk Road was an important channel for ancient Chinese foreign trade, connecting economic cooperation between China and countries along the route," Nan said after her visit to the Guangzhou Maritime Museum. "The Maritime Silk Road is also a path for cultural exchange, providing a platform for mutual learning and integration of different countries, from past to present."

In fact, it was also thanks to the Maritime Silk Road that tea was first brought from China to Malaysia. Yise Loo, a talented Malaysian singer-songwriter and show host, recalled her first taste of Chinese tea at her grandmother's home. The fond memories of family gatherings over afternoon tea and snacks still warm her heart.

It was during her field trip to Guilin that Loo was introduced to Lubao Tea, a specialty of Guangxi.

"With the first sip, I could taste the faint betel nut. It gets better and better with each cup," she said, highlighting the unique and delightful flavors of Lubao Tea.

According to Loo, Lubao Tea has gained significant popularity in Malaysia, where it's often enjoyed with chrysanthemum.

"I also noticed that drinking tea has become more and more popular among Gen Zers in Malaysia," she said. "Young people were embracing the concept of slowing down, paying more attention to their physical and mental well-being."