Returning to the Homeland: A Beijing Cultural Journey of Two Australian Seniors

In the Spring of 2025, I received an email from Australia. It was from Anthony and Helen, a couple in their eighties. This was already their second visit to Beijing but they told me that this time, the journey would carry a much deeper meaning.

The Intention: Revisiting Beijing with Culture and Emotion

At first, I thought they were simply passionate about Chinese history and culture, eager to once again walk through the Forbidden City and climb the Great Wall. But as we spoke, I discovered a far more profound story.

Their father had been a Chinese expatriate who took part in the Anti-Japanese efforts in Australia, leaving behind valuable papers and documentary films. Anthony and Helen’s greatest wish was to someday donate these materials back to China so that more people could understand their father’s contributions, and so he could, in their words, “return to the embrace of his homeland in another way.”

Thoughtful Adjustments: Adding Meaning to the Trip

After learning about their wish, I immediately adjusted their original two-day itinerary. In addition to visiting the Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall, I arranged a special appointment at the Palace Museum to help them understand the donation process. Although the donation could not be finalized during their trip, they were touched by the effort we made. As they told me, “It is the attempt that matters — we felt your sincerity.”

The Forbidden City: A Heartfelt Dialogue with History

On the first day, they entered the majestic Forbidden City. I arranged for a guide well-versed in both Chinese and Western history, who helped them connect what was familiar with what was new.

As they walked past the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Anthony gazed for a long time at the golden roof and quietly said: “This isn’t the first time I’ve seen it, but this time, I finally understand why Father always said his roots would always be here.”

In the Treasure Gallery, they were captivated by the exquisite jade artifacts. Helen whispered: “Every piece tells a story. Perhaps one day, Father’s manuscripts can become part of these stories.”

Mutianyu Great Wall: Persistence in Every Step

On the second day, they journeyed to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Their pace was slow, but every step was firm. The mountain wind swept across the ancient stones, and the distant peaks faded in and out of mist.

When they reached a high vantage point, Anthony rested his hand on the wall, eyes glistening with tears: “This wall is more than stone; it’s my father’s spirit. He taught us resilience, and now we have made it here.”

Helen smiled as she took a photo and sent it to their children back home: “Your grandfather’s spirit is with us today.”

National Museum: The Weight of Culture

That afternoon, they visited the National Museum of China. The couple lingered at nearly every exhibit.

In the modern history gallery, they paid special attention to the Anti-Japanese War section. Helen said softly: “Perhaps Father’s name will never appear here, but we know his story is part of this greater history.”

A Meaningful Conclusion

Though their journey lasted only two days, it carried a depth far beyond an ordinary trip. It was a fusion of family, history, and culture.

Before leaving, Anthony and Helen told me: “Mamie, you didn’t just arrange a trip. You gave us a journey full of meaning.”

For me, being able to use both professionalism and sincerity to help them pursue this wish—and to give them not only beautiful sights but also comfort and enduring family connection—is the most moving part of being a travel consultant.