When I was an international student in China, I was lucky to experience Chinese New Year. The build-up was exciting as everywhere(decorate) with red.
Some fellow students and I decided to travel from Xi'an to Guilin for the festival. Travel during that time is quiteadventure—many people journey home (see) their families and everywhere is very busy.
On the eve of New Year, we watched the CCTV New Year's Gala. Although we didn't really understand everything, it was good to be lostthe atmosphere of the occasion! At New Year, families make (taste) dumplings together as part of the celebrations. On New Year's Day, and for several weeks afterwards, you can hear firecrackers and fireworks everywhere, and the air (smell) strongly of dynamite(火药) and smoke. This was adventurous for us!
Being in China during New Year somewhat meant (lonely) though it was a great experience. I can (absolute) explain it with how international students in the UK might feel at Christmas if (have) no loved ones around them.
Overall, my first Chinese New Year was an amazing experienceI'll never forget.
