Beijing’s locals love activities. Oldies are always out in the streets, on the sidewalks, in parks – everywhere. They dance, read, walk, talk, exercise, and play games. Hearsay says that these games – particularly amongst the men – are fueled by bets.

 This photo also expresses how I’m not really a local, but a complete outsider in many ways. Living here is my longest stretch as a visible minority, which has its unique challenges, but also means that I can play the role of uninitiated and clueless observer (or photographer) without much consequence.