Radio86 journalists Asa Butcher and Iona Orbinski-Vonk are travelling in China for the first time in their lives. Their destination is the fascinating Sichuan province - the home of panda bears. In this blog, Asa tells our readers how an Englishman is faring in the Middle Kingdom.

Click here to read Day Four...

Day five and I am now weighing up another first today against yesterday's emotionfest. Just to sadistically remind you that 24-hours ago I was hugging a baby panda for the very first time, but today I experienced another first that, well, I never expected.

We were being driven to Animal Asia Foundation's Moon Bear Rescue Centre by a Mr Chung, which ironically means 'bear', and we reached a junction manned by a flowerseller. He wound down the window, purchased some magnolia flowers and handed them around the car. It was the very first time a man, a stranger no less, had bought me flowers. It smelled rather lovely.

I duly attached it to my rucksack and began to think about just how friendly the Chinese had been so far. I am not about to generalise, especially when it concerns 1.3 billion people, but the citizens of China have shown nothing but courtesy, friendliness and a sincere desire to do anything and everything they can to make my stay better – in fact, there were three more business cards under my door tonight and one of them may catch a chest cold if she doesn't cover up soon.

The citizens of Chengdu may be sadistic behind the wheel of a moving vehicle, but away from the petrol fumes they are so sweet that you'd consider adopting one and taking him or her home. You try not to take advantage but it is so difficult when they just want to serve you. Last night I ordered a bottle of beer in a restaurant, they poured some of the contents into a wine glass and took the bottle away. I downed the glass. Back they came... guess what I did next?

Yes, I am just as sadistic as some of those drivers on the roads but I have yet to learn the Chinese for "Leave the bottle on the table!" Granted, they didn't ask if I wanted a second beer but I only have myself to blame for that.

I'm sure there are some bastards here in Chengdu, although it seems they are being kept under wraps for now. Until then, I will continue to enjoy the hospitality on offer and will attempt to rein in the 'bastard' gene that occasionally raises its head with each beer.

I really do hope that a few more flowers come my way... courtesy of male or female, my self-esteem is not really that bothered.

P.S. Thanks for all the comments and support so far, but, for some unexplained reason, the internet doesn't work that well in China so I can't reply or even read them all. Keep up the comments, especially since it might win you the chance to go to China!

Click here to read Day Six...

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