Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
HEFEI, February 19 (Xinhua) — In the picturesque bamboo thickets of southern Anhui Province, eastern China, a spring breeze gently caresses cheeks. Here, amidst the magnificent scenery, Alexandra Timofeeva (Sasha) from Russia has found a home and a quiet happiness, along with her family and beloved horses.
Sasha has a deep connection with China. After studying in Shanghai, she traveled to Europe to hone her equestrian skills. There, fate brought her together with Vasily Ivanov (Vasil), a show jumping trainer from Belarus. Their love blossomed, they married, and became parents to a wonderful daughter, Maya. In 2023, Vasil was invited to teach at the Yangtze River Delta International Equestrian Center in Dongting, Anhui Province. Alexandra's family decided to move to this cozy Chinese town to begin a new chapter in their lives.
Upon arrival in Dongting, Sasha's family was greeted with generous gifts by the locals. This warm welcome instantly dispelled the weariness of the journey and brought them closer to the place through the genuine kindness and hospitality of the villagers.
"Horseback riding has always been my favorite pastime," Sasha shared, still remembering the feeling of overcoming her first obstacle. "That moment was truly magical." Now, living near the equestrian center, she trains daily in show jumping, takes her beloved horse on leisurely walks, and sometimes assists and supports the horses' training sessions at the center.
At the racetrack, Sasha overcomes barriers with full dedication, pouring all her energy into every movement. In her daily life, she actively participates in traditional folk events, immersing herself in the local customs of Guangde, and even mastering culinary secrets, such as how to cook braised pork with radish.
Meanwhile, their daughter Maya is growing happily, attending the local kindergarten, learning Chinese and playing with local peers. Her husband, Vasily, is successfully pursuing a career as a horseback riding instructor and is highly respected by his students. All these factors help Sasha feel at home in this once unfamiliar land.
As a professional rider, Sasha has also witnessed the remarkable growth of equestrian sports in China. Even in remote corners like their current home, high-tech facilities capable of hosting international competitions exist, attracting more and more amateur and professional equestrians to train each year.
With the arrival of the Year of the Horse, Sasha harbors a simple yet sincere wish. "I hope to participate in more equestrian competitions this year and also spend more time with my family," she said, adding that her parents are planning to visit China soon. She looks forward to showing them the picturesque landscapes and introducing them to the rich cultural heritage of southern Anhui Province.
The daily life of this international family of three not only illustrates the authentic experience of foreigners settling in rural China and gradually integrating into the local community, but also reflects the unique warmth of human relationships and natural beauty inherent in this region. It offers a glimpse into the diverse possibilities of life in modern Chinese villages.
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