What to send my friend in China?

by Brittany
(Canada)

"I want to include something that will catch his attention."

Ni hao, Victoria. Last summer I went to a summer camp in Shenzhen and I met a boy whom I became good friends with. Ever since, we've been exchanging emails.

Next year he will come on exchange to Canada and I will see him again.

Recently, I asked him for his home address, because we thought it would be fun to send 'snail mail'.

I want to send him a box of little gifts from Canada. I'd like to send some things that his family can enjoy, as well as other things just for him.

I want to send gifts that represent Canada, such as maple candies.

However...the biggest of my concerns is finding a gift that will be special, just for him. I want to include something that will catch his attention.

I really love this boy, but I'm unsure how he feels about me. We're very good friends and he might even be staying at my house when he comes on exchange!

What could I send him, that is subtle, but might give him a hint of how I feel?

We're both 16 years old.

Victoria's Answer:

Hi Brittany,

So glad to hear from you. Hope we can offer a helpful hand.

Sure, for his family you can send them gifts that represent Canada. Just as you suggested: maple candies.

Smoked salmon and Canadian Ginseng are other common gifts that Chinese people enjoy receiving from Canadian friends.

As for him, the gift should not only be special but should also gives him some hints that you love him. Your gift should compel him to give you some response when he gets it.

So my suggestion is to make the gift by yourself.

For instance, you can make a male waist chain. Something like the above picture. You could have it engraved with both your names or initials.

Or you could knit a handmade pair of gloves or a scarf on your own. Even Shenzhen gets cold in the winter season.

With those gifts mentioned above, I think any Chinese man will know your true feelings towards him.

Best regards,

Victoria