Notes from the Other China — Adventures in Asia

Sound Bite

Take an expedition across a continent with Troy Parfitt's Notes from the Other China— Adventures in Asia, a vibrant collection of adventures, observations, and candid reflections based on his decade-long experience as an English teacher in the less-traveled parts of the East.

From his humble origins in a quiet Canadian province, Parfitt's youthful desire for something more leads him eastward, initially to Japan, and ultimately to the unique cultural landscapes of Korea and Taiwan.

About the Book

Setting out to seek his fortune, Parfitt recreates the experience of jumping into the unfamiliar, blending personal anecdotes with keen insights into the diverse societies he encounters.

Readers will be transported to Korea, where they'll witness the fever-pitch nationalism and bold-faced regulatory mazes that guarantee the right team wins. Parfitt’s humorous account includes the challenge of navigating the streets of Seoul, discovering the city's hidden black markets for Western goods, and dealing with eccentric housemates and their boisterous friends.

The narrative widens to include a whirlwind visit to Japan, revealing a fascinating contrast between its apparent order and unexpected cultural openness regarding certain social aspects. A trip to the Philippines brings readers face-to-face with the stark realities of Manila, a city still bearing the scars of war, and offers a glimpse into local perspectives on its complex political history.

Taiwan, the author’s adopted home, serves as the "Other China" and a central point for deeper cultural analysis. Here, Parfitt tackles the elusive concept of "face," suggesting it often acts as a convenient shield for a lack of accountability. He humorously dissects the global spread of English, its enthusiastic but often flawed adoption in Asia, and the intriguing local approach to logic and objective reasoning. Encounters with unusual sales pitches and earnest Mormon missionaries add further color to his Taiwanese experiences.

Beyond East Asia, Parfitt travels to the breathtaking Himalayas of Nepal. Join him on a challenging trek, an elephant safari through Chitwan National Park where rhinos roam, and a sensory-rich visit to the bustling streets of Kathmandu, filled with ancient temples and vibrant life. The journey concludes with an extensive tour of Vietnam, from the chaotic charm of Hanoi and the serene beauty of Halong Bay to the historical weight of the DMZ and Cu Chi Tunnels, all while grappling with language barriers and the unique character of local guides and vendors.

With a sharp wit and an honest eye, Parfitt reveals the humor, frustrations, and significant moments of connection that shape a life lived far from home. the people he encounters as he finds his way in an alien world: the man on the street, in the pub, in his adult language classes and—sometimes weirdest of all—his fellow Westerners. Simple people greet the author with everything from spontaneous gestures of friendship to sudden slaps, from openness and warmth to rock-headed obtuseness.

This book is a delightful read for anyone curious about the human experience in a globalized world, offering a genuine look at the unexpected twists and turns of international travel and residency.