By Raquel Wildes

Raquel Wildes is a sophomore at Columbia University.  She is a former editorial intern for Savvy Auntie and a contributing writer to Columbia's daily newspaper.

I cannot imagine my life without my brother and sisters, cousins, aunts, and uncles. But this summer, I traveled to China, where I was forced to contemplate my life as an only child. As someone who comes from a big family, I had difficulty comprehending China’s one-child family planning policy. When I was in Beijing, I had the opportunity to meet children who were orphaned, by chance or by circumstance, and because they had no extended family, were forced into governmental programming.
 
A family serves as an extended support system, and I find comfort knowing that I have an army of people who are willing to fight for me. Without siblings, the future of China will have no cousins, no aunts, and no uncles. The Chinese government provides such children with education, shelter, and other bare necessities, but in my opinion, this is no substitute for the unconditional love and comfort provided by a stable family life.
 
Bringing your niece or nephew to China will not only allow you a chance to spend quality time with one another, exploring the world and experiencing new cultures, it will also enhance your relationship by realizing how fortunate you are to have each other.
 
China is a rising super power in the global community and a tourist haven. You and your nieces and nephews are guaranteed to have an unforgettable time and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here are 8 things you and your fellow explorers cannot miss:

1. The Great Wall of China is a tourist hot spot, but be sure to walk up and take the toboggan down for some great views.
2. An authentic Dim Sun Chinese meal! Enjoy the exotic tastes of China. Be careful when passing hot dishes around the Lazy Susan!
3. Authentic Chinese markets! Buy slippers, robes, chopsticks, lanterns, and other souvenirs. Be sure to save some Chinese money as a keepsake.
4. Chinese acrobats and knife-throwers.
5. Kung fu lessons.
6. After a long day of touring, reflexology foot massages are a well-deserved reward.
7. Rent bikes and ride along the old city walls of Xi’an.
8. Panda sanctuary or zoo! See the adorable endangered species.

Keep a journal to record your daily activities. Be sure to save plane tickets and to take lots of pictures to paste in your scrapbook. This will be your most valuable keepsake!

Photo: Michael Elliot
Published: August 13, 2012