Ode to Chongqing is simply that - an ode to Chongqing, a break takingly beautiful and unique city in southwest China.

This poem was inspired by Anniesa's experience of working and living in the city during her 15 months there.

Written and narrated originally in 2021.

Republished in 2025.

Ever wondered whether the country you hear about in the news is as bad from the inside?

In our final episode in this three-part Chongqing Chronicles series, Luke and I discuss the reality of living in China versus media and political narratives espoused from our respective countries.

*Originally published in 2021.

What does reality look like when settling into Chongqing life?

Welcome back to our Chongqing musings, the second episode in our three-part special where Luke and I recall our induction to China, work and travel balance, and share some of our favourite wanderlust moments!

*Originally published in 2021.

Luke and I begin our podcasting journey! We discuss our coming to Chongqing, and our initial experiences, in the first of a three-part series.

How many of you have heard of Chongqing?

We (Luke and I) hadn't either, until we applied to teach English as a Foreign Language in China and were posted there. Unfortunately, China gets a bad rep on the international scene and in political contexts. Fortunately, Luke and I met in Chongqing in 2018 and can speak about what life is actually like whilst living in this city.

Albeit random, long and probably loaded with tedious details, join Luke and I as we unpack our road to Chongqing from an American and British perspective.

*Originally published in 2021.

Being falsely accused of blasphemy is an every-day occurence and nothing new in Pakistan.

There's a current fashion trend in the country that is sparking outrage amongst the conservative factions in Pakistan. Many women are wearing headscarves and dresses with the Arabic and Urdu alphabet imprinted on them - only to be accused of commiting acts of blasphemy

Fizza Abbas, outspoken journalist and poet, bravely wrote about her own experience of being falsely accused of blasphemy, in The Diplomat in December. She continues to raise awareness of the dire plight many others face for their choice of clothing.