Hangzhou today. Finally I can finish what started long before the new year. The application for my residence permit that is linked to my work permit. Keep on guard to the very last step! Anything can still go wrong!
I have booked my train tickets online, under my “Chinese” name: 林森. This name is printed on my Chinese driver’s license and I have often used it to buy tickets. On this a day when I join the proud Chinese people as co-resident, I feel that the use of this name is an omen to friendship.
This expectant thought is ended abruptly at the break of day when I’m at the counter to collect my train tickets. “Your name is wrong!” say the speakers at the counter. “But it’s my name!” I insist. “You won’t get your tickets, buy new ones!”
This clerk is unrelenting! “You are joking! This has never happened to me!” My voice is raised and I’m agitated. But after the last remark, the counter really gets a bit angry. “What? Do you say I’m kidding? If you write down a Chinese name, where is your Chinese ID then?”
At that moment I realize that I can’t get any further here. In fact, something about this man’s reaction tells me that I may never get any further in China. A smooth start to the day. Nine o’clock and still no tickets. But three counters further I get new ones. And my delay is actually not too bad.
The very last document I need for my application – and the reason why I stay overnight in Hangzhou tonight – is a registration document that can be issued by any hotel in Hangzhou. Any hotel – except the one I booked.
If Olivia, my agent, points this fact out to the reception desk, I get my money returned without further questions and I can keep the receipt. Sensitive stuff.
A new hotel is quickly found. Fortunately I am able to complete my application at 4.30 pm, 30 minutes before closing time. Stay on guard tomorrow, stay sharp, stay calm.
Written on April 10, 2019