Every month, we unveil the creative minds behind the scenes at WildChina, giving you a glimpse into the magic-makers of our company. These individuals are the architects of unforgettable experiences, the wizards who turn dreams of extraordinary journeys into reality.
This month, meet our travel designer, Shiming Zuo! Originally from Xuancheng City, Anhui, Shiming now calls the bustling city of Beijing home. Her passion for travel ignited during a cultural exchange program, where she found joy in helping others explore new destinations. Known for her meticulous planning, Shiming creates remarkable experiences, like a surprise picnic at the Great Wall. She believes the essence of travel lies in connecting deeply with local cultures and stories.
Shiming connecting with nature in a tranquil Uzbek park.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I am originally from Xuancheng City in Anhui Province, where I enjoyed the natural beauty of the countryside. Now, I live in Beijing, the vibrant capital city, and experience a much more energetic pace of life.
Was there a specific moment in your life when you realized travel is what you wanted to do for work?
I always enjoyed exploring unfamiliar places and cultures, but it was not until I started working in travel that I truly felt fulfilled. A key moment for me was organizing a cultural exchange program, where I got to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and help them experience new destinations. Seeing the excitement and enrichment on their faces was incredibly rewarding. This experience made me realize that working in travel was not just a job; it was something I was deeply passionate about, and it brought me genuine happiness and satisfaction.
Throughout your career, was there one piece of advice you received that really impacted how you do your job?
During my internship at a law firm, I learned a valuable lesson about attention to detail. My boss asked me to send an important email to over 100 contacts, but I mistyped one email address. Though it seemed like a minor error at first, I soon realized the potential consequences of such mistakes. This experience highlighted the importance of accuracy in communication. Since then, I have become extremely detail-oriented and meticulous about double-checking my work, making me conscientious and thorough in all aspects of my job.
Shiming celebrating on a hike in Kyrgyzstan.
What is the best travel experienceyou’ve had so far?
One of the best travel experiences I have had was my solo journey along the Silk Road from Xi'an to Uzbekistan. My standout memory was crossing the Turgart Pass, which was both physically challenging and incredibly rewarding. The dramatic landscapes and the sense of traversing a path once walked by traders and explorers made it feel like I was stepping into a different era. I am eager to revisit it in the future to further explore its many wonders.
What is the most memorable tripyou’ve planned for a traveler (client)?
One of the most memorable trips I have planned was for a couple who journeyed through Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, and Hong Kong. Their trip went seamlessly, and they were delighted with their experience. What made it particularly special was how they brought their travels into their everyday life. At home, they displayed photos that captured their adventure: a picture in their kitchen reminded them of the cooking class in Hong Kong, while a photo of a bamboo forest in their courtyard brought back memories of seeing pandas in their natural habitat. It was incredibly gratifying to see how our planning had created lasting memories and continued to bring them joy long after their trip.
What is the coolest WOW moment you’ve had happen on one of the trips you arranged?
One of the coolest "WOW" moments I have created for a traveler was arranging a surprise picnic lunch at Huanghuacheng Great Wall. Aunt Zhang from our Beijing office, the driver, and I began our day early to ensure everything was perfect. We packed a portable refrigerator with gourmet food, drinks, and elegant glassware, and brought along a table and chairs. Carrying all these items up the rugged terrain required significant effort and careful planning. When the clients completed their hike and discovered the beautifully arranged picnic setup, their excitement was palpable. The surprise added an extra layer of delight, as I had kept the details a secret.
Shiming exploring the Silk Road’s sands in Dunhuang on camelback.
If you had to pick one thing that makes a trip outstanding, what would it be?
What makes a trip outstanding is truly immersing in the local color and stories of a destination. It is about connecting with people and gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life. For example, learning how the educational system differs from your home country or discovering local legends about a scenic area that are not found in guidebooks. This level of insight transforms a trip from good to genuinely great.
Tell us three places on your travel bucket list and why (in China or worldwide):
On my travel bucket list, Antarctica is at the top because I am eager to witness its wonderful wildlife, such as penguins and seals, in their icy habitat. Peru is another destination I am excited about because I want to experience the lively rhythms of traditional music and the energy of its dance festivals firsthand. Lastly, Tahiti attracts me with its stunning coastal landscapes and turquoise waters.
What do you do when you aren’t working?
When I am not working, I dedicate most of my time to caring for my son, which is both fulfilling and joyful. I also enjoy spending my free time practicing yoga, exploring rock climbing, and visiting museums.
Shiming admiring the grand architecture and rich history of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
A fun fact about me is that I have a secret fondness for ping pong, even though my skills are modest! Additionally, I have been practicing yoga since my first year in college. I might consider enhancing my yoga skills and becoming a yoga teacher someday.
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