Meet Nicolas.

Nicolas comes from the great land of Beethovens and Becks. Lucky enough to catch him on his first night since arriving in Beijing, I was able to interview him in a jet-lagged yet jovial state:

Tracy Winn: What are you doing here?

Nicolas: I came to stay with my friend who is also from Germany, but lives here in Beijing.

TW: I see; what does he do?

N: He manages at Mercedes.

[Makes sense.]

TW: So what is your first impression of Beijing?

N: Beautiful girls.

TW: Anything else?

N: Well. . . hmmm. Oh yeah, I love the food. But did I mention there are many beautiful girls?

[Yes.]

TW: What don’t you like about the city so far?

N: I hate the noise.

TW: What noise do you mean?

N: WHAT??

[Funny.]

TW: I know you’re only visiting now, but would you ever live here for an extended time?

N: Never.

TW: Why?

N: I live in Germany.

[Obviously.]

TW: Can you elaborate?

N: I have a special relationship with Germany—I love it. Well, and my business is there.

TW: What do you do?

N: I run a catering company.

TW: Being from Germany, of course I have to ask you: what do you think of Chinese beer?

N: I refuse to even try it.

TW: Why?

N: I live in Germany.

[Wouldn't take an Einstein to see that answer coming.]

TW: How would you describe Beijing in one word?

N: Exciting!

TW: More exciting than Germany?

N: Yes. I can cause way more trouble here. Oh, and there are many beautiful girls. Did I tell you that already?

TW: Yes, more than once.

N: So, will you cut the chase and just ask for my number already?

TW: Auf Wiedersehen!

Tracy Winn loves to find the weird and wonderful characters who make Beijing great. Be sure to check out her other blog for more reflections of a laowai on the highway.