It’s almost a month since I have moved to Harbin and I seem to be settling in now. I have my own apartment, I take the bus to school and pretty much every mode of transport available to go around, and I have become friendly with some of the people in my community.

I might live in a really old part of Harbin but my apartment is stunning and modern. Also, I like getting the feel of real local living. At the moment, I am looking after a little dog for three weeks before she runs along to her forever home – she is a rescue pup. She keeps me very busy.

I am finally getting used to the routine: the commute, long hours, eating out like its going out of fashion, lesson planning. All of it. I am taking it all in.

I have been sight-seeing and have had some odd encounters so that will be coming up soon. But for now, I need to walk the pup and get ready for work work work.

With love, x