Kong Anhe in China: Hashing and Biking in Shanghai

I officially hit my two week mark in Shanghai! I've definitely gotten into a rhythm - morning park runs, biking to and from work, Chinese language classes, spending time with my host family, and hanging out with other interns from around the world.

Pond at the park near my homestay

The explosion of apps and technology means that the China I knew 10 years ago has completely transformed (much like the US has). There is an app for everything. I use WeChat or AliPay to pay for everything using my Chinese bank debit card. Uber is still in China, but I have been using Didi, a similar ride-share app just for China.

I also absolutely LOVE the bike sharing programs in China. There are many different programs, but instead of having dedicated stands like they typically have in the US, you just park your bike in any designated bike area on the sidewalk. I use one app called OFO, and can usually find an OFO bike within a block or two (and often right in front of my building). It's 1 RMB (~14 cents) to ride for half an hour, which makes my commute to and from work (and anywhere else I want to go) extremely affordable. They have promotions all the time too, which means I've already had plenty of free rides.

Stopped at a light with my fellow bikers

This past weekend, I joined a running/walking group called the Shanghai Hashers (affectionately called a drinking group with a running problem). We ran about 6 miles, with 2 beer stops along the way, and more beer, laughs, and dinner afterwards. They were a very welcoming group, and I loved the mix of Chinese and non-Chinese. I'll definitely be going back, and joining up with other hasher groups in Beijing and Nanjing.