Traveling with Yu Qiuji Touching Europe: A European Journey by Beijing Youth Daily Reporter

Author: Liu Chun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-01-01
Features: Walking down the streets of Milan, I gradually discovered its charm: just after passing an ancient alley, the next one was like a modern, luxurious shop. But it was strange how the two streets connected so naturally while maintaining their distinct characteristics. The modern streets never overshadowed the beauty of the old ones. It’s rare to see classical beauty shining so brightly. ——Liu Jiuli
Everyone says the French are romantic, and France really does have some of that feeling: first, the French language has a beautiful musical rhythm. Even when spoken by young men, it carries a soft, elegant nasal tone that is extremely charming. Second, their demeanor—few Frenchmen wear suits and, but even their casual clothes are worn with great refinement. Paired with their clearly defined faces, sharp noses, and expressive eyes, they are quite captivating. ——Li Mei
Bullfighting originated from the spring and autumn customs of the ancient Iberian Peninsula. Before the fight, the bullfighter announces the bull’s name, age, and weight, just like a person. First, two horseback riders with lances the bull, making it. Then, four spearmen insert hooks with curved spears into the bull’s back. When the bull’s eyes turn red, the true bullfighter makes his entrance. But if the bull isn’t injured three times, it will be spared and raised instead. Bulls are colorblind, so the bright red capes the bullfighter waves are actually hard for the audience to see. ——Zhang Chen
Londoners never honk their horns when stuck in traffic, and they rarely sing while walking. The people here are so. It is said that Prime Minister Blair once took the subway to get a feel for the people. But everyone was buried in their books, and no one paid him any attention. Later, a journalist went to interview some of the people involved, and they admitted they recognized him as Prime Minister Blair, but so what? Is it really necessary to go up and greet him? ——Liu Chun
Due to poor transportation, Iceland has long been in a state of isolation, and this state makes change difficult to occur. As a result, many things have remained frozen in time, like specimens for scholars to study, dating back to 800 or 1000 years ago. For example, language: today’s Icelandic children can effortlessly read 13th-century classical works by the poet Thorvaldur Thorhallsson. ——Tang Yuanhong