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I went to China for a brief working visit, and I thought that Shanghai was interesting, but Beijing totally grabbed me.

I always love China, especially the old China.

China in particular is an absolutely fascinating place to be. Culturally and politically and economically it's becoming more and more relevant. If you look at how China is perceived in different parts of the world, you can recognize it's very dynamic. It's also challenging what it thinks of itself.

Beijing was such a different city. There were so few cars, I could walk in the middle of the road. In the summer, the streetlamps attracted swirling bugs. I loved those bugs: crickets, praying mantis, all kinds of beetles. I also have a vivid memory of dazzling sunlight coming out of the sky.

China is a great country with a great culture, populated by fascinating, industrious and talented people.

New York City is my favorite city in the world.

Beijing was a huge slap in the face, and it forced me to look at myself. I have to realise that this is my life.

Berlin is my favourite city.

And Shanghai is amazing. I'm a fan of science fiction so when you're there in the night with all the lights and all this modernity, it's like a set in a movie.