In the tranquil village of Shamei (沙美), nestled on the outskirts of Xiamen (厦门), a small yet vibrant community has found an unlikely member—Felix, affectionately known as "Lao Wai A Le (老外阿乐)" by the locals. A graphic designer from Germany, Felix's journey to this coastal enclave is a tale of serendipity, transformation, and the search for a simpler, more fulfilling life.
Xiamen City: A New Beginning
Felix's adventure in China began in 2012 when he first set foot in Xiamen during a trip through the country. Drawn by the city's coastal beauty and its rich cultural vibe, he made the spontaneous decision to make it his new home. The charm of Xiamen, with its unique blend of modernity and tradition, struck a chord with Felix, prompting him to leave behind his life in Europe and embark on a new chapter in Asia.
Back in the Netherlands, Felix had studied graphic design at university, a field that would initially shape his career in Xiamen. Over the years, he took on various roles—teaching at a local university, working as a designer for companies, and even co-owning a bar with friends. These experiences offered him a taste of urban life in China, but as time went on, Felix and his wife, May, found themselves yearning for something different, something quieter.
In 2017, Felix and May decided to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind. They set their sights on Shamei Village, a rural area near the Xiamen University Xiang'an (翔安) campus, where a significant number of international students had begun to settle. This influx of students brought a dynamic, youthful energy to the village, making it an ideal spot for Felix and May to start anew.
The couple found an old Minnan-style (闽南风格) house in Shamei and embarked on a mission to transform it into a Western restaurant, which they named "Huang Shi Wu (黄石屋)." Felix, with his designer's eye, breathed new life into the traditional architecture, blending modern elements with the home's rustic charm. The restaurant quickly became a gathering place for both locals and international students—a place where cultures mixed and friendships flourished.
Felix envisioned the restaurant as more than just a place to eat. He wanted it to be a "home away from home" for the foreign students who found themselves far from their families. It wasn't long before the restaurant became a beloved spot in the village, a space where people from different backgrounds could come together and feel a sense of belonging.
Finding Contentment in Rural Life
As they settled into their new life in Shamei, Felix and May moved into the village full-time, embracing the slower pace and the close-knit community. Felix's love for the local culture grew as he participated in traditional activities and connected with the villagers. Despite being a foreigner, he found joy in the simplicity of rural life and the warmth of the people around him.
For May, who had grown up in a rural area, this move was a return to her roots. She found comfort in the familiar rhythms of village life, and over time, her stress and anxieties began to dissipate. Although their new life was not without its challenges—they drove an old, unreliable car, didn't own a house, and had limited savings—they found satisfaction in the lifestyle they had chosen.
Felix's laid-back attitude toward life had a calming influence on May. He often reminded her that life isn't just about working and saving money; it's also about taking time to relax and do the things you love. Their son, born in Shamei, was a testament to the life they had built together—a life filled with love, simplicity, and the freedom to live on their terms.
Building a Life Beyond Material Success
Operating a small restaurant in a rural village might not sound like the dream life for everyone, but for Felix and May, it's exactly what they were looking for. The restaurant provides them with a steady income, their son is growing up healthy and happy, and they have plenty of time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. As Felix puts it, "Life needs to have a portion reserved for relaxation and doing what you love."
Felix's story is a reminder that success isn't solely defined by material wealth or professional achievements. For him, success is about finding a place where he feels at home, building meaningful connections with the people around him, and living a life that brings him joy. In Shamei Village, Felix and May have created a life that is rich in experiences and full of contentment—a life that many in the modern world might envy.
As the sun sets over the village, casting a golden glow on the old Minnan houses, Felix can often be found sitting outside his restaurant, enjoying the evening breeze and chatting with friends. It's a simple life but one that is deeply fulfilling. In a world that often prioritizes speed and ambition, Felix's journey offers a different perspective—one that values slow living, community, and the pursuit of happiness in its purest form.
