On Oct 16, an unusual request for assistance arrived at an auto repair shop in Linfen city, Shanxi province. A French couple, journeying through China in their camper van, reported a coolant leak upon reaching Linfen and urgently sought repairs. With the remote guidance of the shop's staff, they located the repair facility, leading to a heartwarming cross-cultural interaction.

The repair team discovered the vehicle – a European diesel camper – needed parts unavailable locally, requiring a two-day wait for delivery from Beijing. The shop owner, Dong Jian, patiently communicated with the couple using translation software.

Dong Jian and the French couple pose for a group photo. [Photo/Linfen Daily]

During their conversations, Dong learned that the 90s-born couple had embarked on an epic journey, entering China from Inner Mongolia autonomous region after crossing several Central Asian countries, and drove through Datong, Xinzhou, Taiyuan, and Jinzhong before reaching Linfen.

During the two-day wait for parts, Dong offered the couple an immersive experience of Linfen's culture and hospitality. He introduced them to local culinary delights, including Linfen's famous beef meatball noodles and authentic local dumplings.

Beyond the culinary adventures, Dong took the couple on tours of local attractions such as the Ancient City Park, city walls, and Drum Tower. These cherished moments were captured and shared on Dong's Douyin account, garnering widespread attention and praise from viewers.

Two days later, after their camper van was repaired, the couple reluctantly resumed their journey. Before departing, Kevin Maurin, the husband, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saying, "Linfen is an incredibly friendly city, with clean, orderly streets and warm-hearted people. The scenery and food here are unforgettable, and we look forward to returning."