Hello! I’m Ethan Walker, a 33-year-old human resources manager living and working in the vibrant city of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. Originally from Austin, Texas, I made the move to Chengdu about four years ago, and since then, this city has become much more than just a work location — it’s home, playground, and a constant source of inspiration.
Working in HR has taught me a lot about people — what motivates them, how teams thrive, and the importance of culture in any organization. But outside the office, my passion for travel and exploration gives me a broader perspective on human connection and the world around us. Chengdu, with its blend of rich history, modern energy, and laid-back lifestyle, is the perfect place to nurture both my professional and personal sides.
One thing that sets Chengdu apart for me is its incredible access to natural beauty and cultural heritage within a short distance. On weekends, I often escape the city buzz by heading out to places like Mount Qingcheng, the Dujiangyan irrigation system, or the Leshan Giant Buddha. These spots are not just tourist destinations for me — they’re living classrooms. I find myself constantly reflecting on how these ancient sites symbolize harmony between people and nature, a concept that resonates deeply in my own life and work.
What I love most about traveling around Chengdu is the balance between adventure and reflection. Unlike fast-paced, checklist-style tourism, my trips here tend to be slower and more immersive. I enjoy hiking lesser-known trails where the crowds thin out and the landscape reveals itself quietly — bamboo forests, crystal-clear streams, and small villages untouched by time. These experiences remind me how travel isn’t just about seeing new places, but about tuning into different rhythms of life.
Food culture in Chengdu also plays a big role in my travel experience. As someone who enjoys both cooking and dining out, the city’s legendary Sichuan cuisine is a constant source of delight and challenge — spicy, bold, and full of variety. Sampling local street food during my travels — from hotpot in a mountain village to simple noodle stalls — has been an essential way to connect with the people and stories behind each place.
Another unique aspect of my travel perspective here is how it parallels my approach to HR. Just as managing people requires empathy, patience, and understanding individual needs, traveling in Sichuan calls for openness, respect, and adaptability. Language barriers, cultural differences, and sometimes rugged conditions have taught me to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. It’s about building bridges, whether between colleagues in an office or between myself and the locals I meet on the road.
Living in Chengdu has also encouraged me to prioritize work-life balance. The city’s relaxed pace — its afternoon tea culture, its abundant parks and green spaces — has influenced how I manage stress and stay grounded. I’ve joined local hiking groups and even learned a bit of Tai Chi to keep both my body and mind in harmony. These practices not only enhance my wellbeing but also improve how I lead and support teams at work.
Traveling around Sichuan has expanded my view on community as well. I’m fascinated by how small towns and villages maintain traditions that have survived centuries of change. Festivals, local crafts, and oral histories are part of the landscape here, and participating in them — whether through volunteering or simply showing up with curiosity — has enriched my understanding of cultural resilience.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue exploring more remote corners of Sichuan and beyond, perhaps venturing into Tibet or Yunnan for new perspectives. Professionally, I hope to integrate my travel insights into my work by fostering more culturally aware and empathetic HR practices that celebrate diversity and global thinking.
I’m Ethan Walker — a people person, traveler, and lifelong learner. In Chengdu, I’ve found a city that feeds my soul and sharpens my mind. Every journey I take, whether through the mountains or the boardroom, reminds me that growth comes from embracing both challenge and connection.