Circling Shanxi

This dispatch tracks our first SOAS immersion across six prefectures. It documents how we paired bilingual escorts with vetted drivers and recorded the etiquette script we still use before guests walk through a courtyard gate.

The notes include stage-by-stage timing, who hosted us in each city, and the troubleshooting log when weather, traffic, or permits changed. Use it whenever you need proof that deep travel can stay structured without feeling scripted.

• Six-prefecture route map with contact sheet for each host family.
• Escort briefing script in English/Mandarin plus behavior checklist.
• Budget line items that explain why a cultural liaison is worth it.