Andreas Laimböck 周浩辰

Founder

Where are you from?
Austria and Germany.

What are your teaching qualifications?
I’m not a teacher, but I am a qualified HSK examiner.

How long have you been with LTL?
Since the first day LTL started in a little coffee shop in the CBD of Beijing.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A football, because I am a big football fan and regularly watch Beijing Guo’an games, especially when we are playing against Shanghai.

Favourite colour?
Blue and yellow, as you can see from the school logo.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Málà xiāng guō 麻辣香锅. It is based on what Mongolian horsemen would eat when riding through the steppe. They hunted and gathered vegetables during the day and in the evening stir fry them all together in their helmets. It’s a bit more hygienic and sophisticated today, but the concept is still the same and tastes amazing.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The little square between the Drum and the Bell Tower in Beijing old town after work when the tourists have left. Sitting on the steps of the Bell Tower with a cold beer. I enjoy watching the old women square dance, children skate and everyone else relax on the square after work while the sun is setting. This is an amazing moment.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Beijng of course. And so I did.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Sidney Rittenberg. He came to China as a US soldier in the 1940s and stayed until the 80s. I would love to hear his stories.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Speak, listen and experience Mandarin every day. Don’t speak English. Immerse yourself into a Chinese language environment. It can be a challenge sometimes but experiencing real China is an incredible adventure and your Mandarin skills will improve very quickly if you are truly immersed.
Also get your tones under control right at the beginning. Once you pick up bad pronunciation habits it is very difficult to change them later.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I failed English and French in high school and had the lowest Mandarin scores of my class at university. Today I am a HSK examiner. Anyone can learn Mandarin.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Pingyao 平遥. It was China’s financial capital during the Qing dynasty and today is an incredibly well preserved old Chinese town, about three hours by train West of Beijing. When walking along the city walls through the old town it can sometimes feel like as if a couple of ancient Confucian scholars or Manchu warriors might be just around the corner. It’s a magical place.

Linda 李甜

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Xi’an in Shanxi province, famous for the Terracotta Army.

What are your teaching qualifications
Bachelor degree in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language, as well as CET-6 English qualification.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching in 2012, and that is also when I started working for LTL.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A cup, because I like to drink hot water. Working as a teacher I need to talk a lot and hot water is important to me

Favourite Chinese dish?
Shanxi style lamb skewers.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The Temple of the Sun.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
You need to use it every day, that way even stupid people can learn Chinese as well.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I can tie cherry stems into knots with my tongue and not drool while doing it.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
I really like Hangzhou, but as I travel more and more I keep discovering new places. Maybe soon I will discover a new favorite place?

Maria 高媛

Student Advisor

How long have you been with LTL?
I have been a Chinese teacher since 2007, but don’t do classes anymore. I have been with LTL since 2010.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought in a toy horse. My daughter’s zodiac is horse. I really admire the horses stamina

Favourite Chinese dish?
Shredded pork in hot garlic sauce also named Yú xiāng ròu sī (鱼香肉丝)

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The museums in Beijing, there are so many to choose from.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Myself 20 years in the future.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Be patient, listen a lot, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I used to be a football cheerleader when I was in University.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Any secluded, quiet place by the sea.

Alwin 冯威翔

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Henan province

What are your teaching qualifications?
I am certified to teach Mandarin by the State Language Affairs Commission.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I have been teaching since about 2013.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
My ancient Chinese fan, I love thinking about China’s long history.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Spicy fish soup, called 水煮鱼 Shuǐ zhǔ yú in Chinese.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The former Royal hunting field in the southern Beijing suburbs. 南海子公园 – Nán hǎi zǐ gōngyuán

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
Sheep 羊 (Yáng) as it’s my zodiac.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
First of all be patient, also immerse yourself in Chinese culture as the culture and language are intertwined.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I love maps! Reading maps is exciting to me!

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Beijing, I’m used to weather, the noise, and fast pace. I would be bored anywhere else.

Irene Magnosi 艾琳

Program Manager

Where are you from?
Italy 意大利

What are your qualifications?
Program Manager and Senior Student Advisor

When did you start working at LTL?
Since 2018.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A scratch world map. I love travelling and exploring new places… next stop Kenya!

Favourite Chinese dish?
地三鲜 potato-eggplants and peppers. I love the Chinese way of cooking eggplants!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Tiziano Terzani, an Italian journalist, traveller and writer who chronicled Asia’s race toward modernity with the curiosity of a travel writer and a deep cultural sensitivity of a political journalist.

In China, he and his family lived the experience, as pioneering Westerners in post-Cultural Revolution China, to the full: his children attended the local Chinese-only school, and for excursions, they would put their bicycles on a train, travel to a far-flung destination then pedal off into the sunset. In 1984 the Chinese government expelled him for counter-revolutionary activities. I would ask him everything about China in the early 80s and how Beijing looked like at that time… and I would listen for hours!

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Jingshan park, from the top of the hill you can see all the Forbidden city, it’s beautiful!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I would love to be a dragonfly on a Thai island. Maybe you don’t know that seeing swarms of dragonflies means rain is on the way. In some cultures, dragonflies represent good luck and prosperity. So make a wish when you see a dragonfly and it’ll come true!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Immerse yourself, experience the language with locals, and don’t be afraid of speaking!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
If I like a movie or a book, I don’t watch the end.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Zhangye Danxia Landform: it is a unique and beautiful landscape in Gansu Province (north-west of China) Danxia landforms are sandstone formations, known for being very dramatic and colourful. The landform near Zhangye City has colourful and magnificent cliffs in a hilly and mountainous land. It’s stunning!

Jane Lee 李志珍

Immersion Specialist

Where are you from?
Hebei, north of China

What are your qualifications?
CET6

When did you start working for LTL?
I started in the middle of 2019.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A ping pong bat. I love sports and ping pong is a good choice for not only keeping your body healthy but also making you feel energetic.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Dumplings… Always dumplings!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Guodegang 郭德纲! I love him!!! He is so famous in China and is good at singing opera, cross talk and so on!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Apply what you learned to any situation. Use Chinese as much as you can everywhere.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I’m so lazy that I can’t even finish this senten

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Lijiang. A great place to relax. The air is really fresh there.

Marine Colliot 柯海娜

Marketing Wizard

Where are you from?
France

What are your qualifications?
I have a Master’s degree in Culture and International Affairs, with a focus on China.

How long have you been with LTL?
I have a long history with LTL! I used to be an intern in 2015, then a student, then a free-lancer a couple of years after that, and now I work full time at LTL Beijing since August 2019.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought my scarf, it is just very cosy and super warm, I have been wearing it every autumn/winter for years now. My mum and I spotted it at the same time in a thrift store and really liked it, but she let me have it.

Favourite Chinese dish?
There are so many I don’t know if I can choose only one! I really like baozi, sweet and sour pork, the way they cook eggplants, all the soups with lots of vegetables in it, and the hotpot of course!

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Beihai Park, definitely.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Greta Thunberg, I have a lot to learn from her.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
A cat! I’d love to be able to just play, eat and sleep all day long.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Get the tones right from the beginning and basically imitate the sounds you hear the best you can. Also, never give up! Chinese is a difficult language but it is so worth it.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
When I was younger I trained with a pretty renowned French Mountain Infantry Battalion in the Alps, they taught me how to climb mountains with and without gear and how to survive if I ever found myself lost.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
I would say Hangzhou. It is a very peaceful city with a lot to visit. Also, the lake reminds me of the one in my hometown, they look a lot similar.

Annie 吴伟

Human Resources

Where are you from?
I’m from a small town in Liaoning province.

How long have you been working for LTL?
Since 2013.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A picture of my absolute favorite singer. I love listening to her voice.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Anything with lots and lots of vegetables.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The capital library in Beijing.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Use Chinese in your daily life, speak a lot, listen a lot and you will improve faster.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I have been a vegetarian for a long time. It was very uncommon here in China when I started, and it’s still not very common.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
My home province of Liaoning. It’s not very famous but it is full of beautiful places.

Max 马克思

Marketing Director

Where are you from?
A small, but famous town in England called Cheltenham.

How long have you been working for LTL?
Since 2017.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A Pack of Cards to celebrate my love for playing Poker.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Too many to mention but honourable shout outs to 生煎包 (a type of friend dumpling) and 串儿 (Chinese BBQ).

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Any of the local football stadiums so I can get my live football fix.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Don’t ever give up. There are tough times when it feels too overwhelming but some days it just clicks. Push yourself and never stop learning.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I gave a speech at my friends wedding, in Chinese. Don’t believe me? I got her family to film it for me! Check it out.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Zhangjiajie and Guilin. Both sublime parts of the world with breathtaking scenery. You’ll see what Guilin represents on the 20 Kuai note and Zhangjiajie is where the film Avatar was based.

Agnes

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Beijing

What are your teaching qualifications?
International Chinese Teaching Certificate

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2007

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I love to paint. This is one of my most recent creations.

Favourite Chinese dish?
I like almost anything.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The Forbidden City

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Speak! Speak! Speak!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I am keen on drawing Chinese painting, writing calligraphy, cutting paper cuts, playing mahjong, showing tea art.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
My hometown!

Aria 任晓甜

Finance Manager

Where are you from?
Shanxi, China

How long have you been working for LTL?
I started mid 2019.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
Cat stickers. I love cats.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Red burned fish. You should try it while you’re in China!

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Houhai (Shichahai), Nangonggu Alley, there is a lot of beautiful scenery and food.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Jack Ma, I like Taobao, hahaha.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Listen more, say more, and be bold.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I like to eat Changsha stinky tofu. The smell is very bad, but it tastes great!

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Kunming, Yunnan, four seasons like spring.

Summer 王珊

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Yangquan, the capital of Shanxi province.

What are your teaching qualifications?
Chinese Language Teaching Certification.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching in 2012, my second teaching job was with LTL.

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
My favorite sport is basketball. When I was four years old and began to learn basketball, I realized what I really wanted when I ran on the court.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Peking Duck and barbecue can make me feel what happiness is.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
I like to go to Museums most.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Keep repeating, that’s what matters most.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
Every time I fall asleep, I would produce a batch of new ideas.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
My hometown, because my beloved family lives there.

Serena 潘蕊蕊

Where are you from?
Beijing

Position at LTL:
Chinese teacher

What are your teaching qualifications? 
More than 10 years’ full-time Chinese teaching experience.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Since 2008

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought my HSK textbook because this series of textbooks is my favorite.

What is your favourite Chinese dish?
Any dish with fish or meat, and NOT spicy.

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Home.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Open your mouth, then, talk!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I was 90 kg when I first started as a Chinese teacher.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Beijing. Hometown always the best place.

Alice

Where are you from?
Beijing

Position at LTL:
Chinese teacher

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Since 2006

What is your favourite Chinese dish?
Dumplings

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
I like to  go to the Lama Temple

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
I suggest all students should speak more, listen more, reading more.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I have taught students from 55 countries

What is your favorite place in China and why?
My favourites place is my hometown “Beijing”

Sara Liu 刘卫红

Position at LTL
Chinese teacher

Where are you from?
HeBei Province

What are your teaching qualifications?
My major in the University is Teaching Chinese as the Second Language I have been a Chinese teacher for more than 5 years.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2012

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
HSK book ，because I think this book is a good way for us to study new knowledge and to know yourself better.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Sour and spicy shredded potatoes

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
The Fragrant Hills

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Try to speak more with Chinese people ，it helps a lot to improve your Spoken Chinese

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I try to read 50+ books each year

What is your favorite place in China and why?
TianJin , Because it is very nice to walk along with the HaiHe River.

Ellie 李培

Position at LTL
Chinese teacher

Where are you from?
China，Beijing

When did you start teaching Chinese? 
September，2009

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
Majiang. Because I like to play it.

Favourite Chinese dish?
LaoBeijing Zhajiangmian

Where is your favourite place to go in Beijing?
Yiheyuan

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Use it

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Beijing, since it’s my hometown.

Amanda 李钟霞

Chinese Language Teacher

What are your teaching qualifications?
Degree in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language from East China Normal University

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2012

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A calligraphy brush, because I love writing Chinese calligraphy.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Too many, I really like eating!

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
There’s no one special place. I like what the roads of Shanghai look like early in the morning when there are no people around.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I like travelling and would like to see a lot of places. If in China, I would like to go to Nyinchi in Tibet, because the Nyang River is really beautiful. If abroad, I would like to go to Spain, because I like drinking Sangria!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Jack Ma (the founder of Alibaba Group), so that I can learn from his insights.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Listen a lot, speak a lot, imitate a lot. Chinese is not really hard, as long as you are willing to put the effort and follow your teacher.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I travelled alone for two months. Believe me, in China, a 25 year old girl traveling alone is a very surprising thing to people, even if I don’t think so personally.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Nyinchi in Tibet, such amazing beauty and serenity.

Jan Skarstein 杨洋

Marketing Associate

Where are you from?
I was born in Warsaw, Poland, but I grew up among the fjords in Bergen, Norway.

How long have you been working for LTL?
I started in May 2016

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
My Minolta analogue SLR camera, it was given to me by my father. While it didn’t spark my love for photography, it did fuel it. Despite being incredibly heavy I still brought it with me from Norway to China.

Favourite Chinese dish?
I don’t think it has a name, but my wife makes this amazing lotus root braised in soy sauce.

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
I like visiting the grounds of my old university, Fudan. The grounds are like a large quiet park, and my favorite sushi restaurant is nearby!

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A proper trip through China’s southwest, Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou. I love the food from that area. Outside of China, I’ve been fascinated by Sudan, the Pharaoh kingdoms of the lower Nile, and the pyramids in there.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Don’t ignore the characters! Characters are very useful, especially if you live in China. Getting a basic understanding of some of the commonly used, simpler characters is not as hard as people might think. If you know pinyin, and you should, then even typing characters on phones or computers is a breeze.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I took all the pictures on the “meet the team” page, well, except for the pictures of me. If that’s not surprising enough, then I failed my driving test twice, before passing the 3rd time, so much for being a car lover.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Xiamen is awesome, laid back, great weather, and great food.

Tony 张小龙

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Xi’an, Shanxi

What are your teaching qualifications?
B.A in English

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2015

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A comic book and my headphones. Because there’s nothing better than a good story and good music.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Fried Rice

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
My home in Shanghai.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A lonely island somewhere. Because I can completely be myself there.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
With myself, because I have no idea what it is like for someone to have dinner with me. I think it would be interesting.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
A panda. I wouldn’t need to do anything, and people would still consider me a national treasure.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
First, form it into a personal interest. Second, develop it into a habit.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I once took a 40 day bicycle ride to Tibet

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Tibet, because there are few people and the landscape is amazing!

Caroline 冯新娇

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Hefei, Anhui province

What are your teaching qualifications?
B.A. in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language from North China Institute of Science and Technology.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2015

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought a calligraphy kit (brush, ink, paper and inkplate). Those are the four treasures of Chinese literature, and Chinese calligraphy has been popular in the world for many thousands of years, I also really like calligraphy.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Chestnut Chicken, Red Braised Pork, Stir-fried Tomato and Scrambled Eggs.

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
The LTL School!

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
The Sahara Desert. Because as a child I really liked the author San Mao, she lived for numerous years in the Sahara Desert, and her lifestyle had a big influence over me.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I could turn back time, I would love to have dinner with Cao Xueqin, the author of the Chinese classic Dream of the Red Chambers.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Language is a tool of communication. Only if it is applied, can you improve your reading, writing, speaking and listening, and thus having a better grasp of Chinese.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I went to a bar for the first time when I was 24 years old.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
The Great Wall of China. Because I’ve seen the most beautiful starline there. The combination of the long wall and the star-filled sky creates the most impressive natural scenery.

Kristen 蒋晓露

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Shanghai

What are your teaching qualifications?
I’m a returnee, I studied in Sweden.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2011

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought my Beats headphones. Because I love music.

Favourite Chinese dish?
No favorite. As long as it is tasty, I like it.

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
Being a Shanghainese person, it’s hard for me to answer.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
One place is not enough, I want to travel the world!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Eddie Peng, Hu Ge, Song Joong-ki… there are too many handsome guys! You should change the question to “If there was one guy everyday who would take you out for dinner, who would it be?”

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
One, open your mouth and speak, do not be afraid of making mistakes. Two, Find a Chinese boyfriend/girlfriend. Three, Listen to your teacher’s advice, you have to take initiative in studying and have a good study schedule. Four, Try to understand Chinese culture, throw away any prejudices and stereotypes.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I cannot ride a bicycle.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Shanghai, because Shanghai is the place where I was born and where I grew up.

Alex 汪张阳

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
I’m from Shanghai.

What are your teaching qualifications?
Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language degree from Shanghai Normal University

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2014

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A book and a camera. I like reading, photography and traveling.

Favourite Chinese dish?
The omelettes my father makes.

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
My house!

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Mars. That way I will be the first human being to go on Mars.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
My future wife, so that I don’t need to continue searching for her.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Speak more with Chinese people.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I’m the only person in the world with my type of DNA.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Tibet, this is the most beautiful place in my opinion.

Yiyi 杨蕊菡

Chinese Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Chengdu, Sichuan province

What are your teaching qualifications?
M.A. in Ancient Chinese Literature

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2016

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought a doll, because this is a birthday gift my best friend gave me.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Maocai Hotpot

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
The Bund

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I don’t typically eat dinner. If I do, it will definitely be with an important person!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
Panda, because it’s a national treasure.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Speak as much as possible. Also, have me be your Chinese teacher!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
For many years now, I’ve been waking up every day at 6 AM.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Lijiang in Yunan, that’s my hometown.

Qinqu 陈琴

Chinese Language Teacher

Favourite Chinese dish?
My favorite food is my mother’s home cooking

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
Shanghai’s Bund – That is where Western Culture opened the door to ancient Chinese culture, and you have a beautiful combination of both cultures there.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Tibet is heaven on earth, you can find the strength of faith, goodness and purity there, purify your thoughts. I would like to visit every corner of Europe, experience the old romantic, renaissance cities.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
When you study a language you also study a culture, so you can’t just study Chinese in the classroom, you also need to get Chinese friends, travel and experience China. When you understand the culture and the customs it will give you a sense for the language which will help you a lot.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I don’t have any sense of direction. I have been in Shanghai many years, but I will still often get lost. Is that surprising?

What is your favourite place in China and why?
In China, what I like the most is the watertowns in the south of China, and to spend a whole day just relaxing in the cafes and bars.

Ray 任申轩

Chinese Language Teacher

Favourite Chinese dish?
Hot Pot.

Where is your favourite place to go to in Shanghai?
Temple of the City God.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
To the North Pole to so the northern lights.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Stan Lee.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I had never been to a bar before 2018.

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Ningxia, nothing is like home.

Zoe 黄凤霞

Chinese Language Teacher

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A Chinese knot, it represents China’s traditional culture. Some of them are simple and easy to learn and can help students know more about Chinese culture

Favourite Chinese dish?
Fish flavoured shredded pork

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
Qibao old street

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Japan, Japanese culture is both similar and different from Chinese at the same time and shares much of the same roots. If I have the opportunity I would like to have a closer look.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Mom and dad. I work very far from home, and through the year I only have the possibility to have a few dinners with them. If I could, I would stay a few more days and listen to their squabbling

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
You have to persevere, study a little bit every day. Even if you only study one word a day, you have to continue.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I am already married, and have children, does that count？

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Xi‘an. Because they have so many different types of snacks. So many!

Ariel 柴婉歆

Chinese Language Teacher

We asked everyone to bring their favourite item, what item did you bring and why?
带巧Chocolate Because chocolate will make you happy every day.

Favourite Chinese dish?
中国有句古话，叫民以食为天，所以中国美食文化博大精深！粉蒸肉，皮蛋豆腐，黄豆焖猪蹄，东坡肉，土豆烧肉，太多了，只要是中国菜我都喜欢

Where is your favourite place to go in Shanghai?
The Place I like the best is the Bund

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I would Like to go to Scandinavia, I would love to lie on the ground and count the stars and watch the northern lights

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
The flash! Then I could become his friend and we could go travelling together

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Talk more, and try to copy how Chinese people speak. Watch a lot of Chinese cartoons and listen to Chinese music!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
Really, I am a very introverted person

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Xi’an, Xi’an is China’s first capital. There are many ancient buildings, and the famous terracotta warriors and the tomb of the first emperor of China. If you are interested in Chinese history you have to go!

Evelyn 张卉

Chinese Language Teacher

We asked everyone to bring their favourite item, what item did you bring and why?
I’m bringing a book, the book is named “the book of Answers”. Why I think it’s interesting is because when you feel confused about life you can find the answer in this book?

Where is your favourite place to go to in Shanghai?
I just arrived to Shanghai, so I haven’t been that many places, right now what I like the most is the Xingguang Art museum on the Bund.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Where I would like to go the most is Provence, because you can see Lavander there.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
With my parents, because spending time with them is very important.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Work hard! It will pay off in the end.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
You tell me something surprising first! Then I will tell you.

Ray 任申轩

Chinese Language Teacher

Favourite Chinese dish?
Hot Pot.

Where is your favourite place to go to in Shanghai?
Temple of the City God.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
To the North Pole to so the northern lights.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Stan Lee.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I had never been to a bar before 2018.

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Ningxia, nothing is like home.

Alexander Krasnov 朱兆风

Taiwan School Director

Where are you from?
I’m from the southern part of Israel.

What are your teaching qualifications?
Not teaching, but I have a Masters in Ancient Chinese Literature.

How long have you been working for LTL?
Since 2012

We asked everyone to bring their favourite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought my phrasebooks because I am obsessed with learning languages.

Favourite Chinese dish?
Hui Guo Rou (Twice Cooked Pork)

Where is your favourite place to go in Taiwan?
I absolutely love the Korean BBQ restaurant near the school!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Generally, I enjoy discussing languages with other successful language learners and learn the various methods they use.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I’d prefer to stay human. I think we live in an amazing world, and being human allows us to enjoy it the most!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Being consistent! Start studying and don’t stop! Daily study will eventually turn into fluency!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I’m able to communicate in ten languages, and I’m studying 13 others (as of March 2017)

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Beijing and Shanghai, because these are the places where most of my friends are.

Annie Kuan 关晓雯

Director of Studies

Where are you from?
I am from Taipei.

What are your teaching qualifications?
I have a TCSOL Certificate and three years of Chinese teaching experience in Spain.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Summer of 2015, starting in Madrid, Spain.

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
My favourite Taiwanese dish will always be pearl milk tea.

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
There is a private beach next to my house. It’s beautiful and only a handful of people know about it so I can read my books in peace and quiet.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
TALK, TALK and TALK!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I visited the city of Nanfa and walked the same road as the famous artist Van Gogh.

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why?
Hualien’s Qixingtan, because there are many beautiful stones, you can draw and write poems on them.

Jassie Zhu 邱筱筑

Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Taiwan

What are your teaching qualifications?
I have a degree in Chinese language and teaching from National Taiwan University

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching Chinese in 2017

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
I love Oyster omelettes

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
Xiangshan is really great!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Don’t just recite words, remember to write down the whole conversation, preferably with pictures!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I am a lifeguard, so I go swimming every morning. I have painted more than ten murals.

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why?
Little Ryukyu and Lanyu! They are very beautiful islands! You can forget all the troubles there, swim with the fish, and the residents on the island are super friendly!

Julia Chang 张淑婷

Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Taipei, Taiwan

What are your teaching qualifications?
I studied at National Taiwan Normal University, majoring in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
2017

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
Intestine Vermicelli

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
Shida Nightmarket

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Find something you love! Maybe follow some Chinese TV shows, Chinese songs, or Youtubers!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
My hair used to be pink, blue, and purple, though it’s black now.

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why
National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium in PingDong
You can explore the breathtaking underwater world through those massive display windows and the biggest underwater tunnel in Asia.

Ehana 朱宥颖

Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Keelung, Taiwan.

What are your teaching qualifications?
A certified Mandarin teacher with TCSL certification, AKA the certificate of teaching Chinese as a second language. I have 2 years of experience teaching Chinese in Shanghai as well as Taiwan.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching in 2017 and have loved it ever since!

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
Easily my favourite Taiwanese dish is a Fan Tuan (飯糰). It’s a burrito like roll or sticky rice!

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
If you get the chance go to Danshuei. I love that district.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Don’t be shy to speak Chinese. The more you talk the faster it will come to you

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I know how to say “I LOVE YOU” in Somali.

What is your favorite place in Taiwan and why?
Keelung… I’m a bit bias because that’s where I’m from however it truly is a beautiful place

Eden

Language Teacher

Where are you from?
Taiwan

What are your teaching qualifications?
My university major is Chinese literature and I was trained in the TLI Chinese language institute.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching in 2014 and never stopped. It’s wonderful meeting people interested enough to leave their home country to come study with me and experience my language and culture.

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
Don’t leave Taiwan without trying an Oyster omelette. The best thing around!

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
Dihua street, especially at night. It’s beautiful. I spend a lot of time there.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Watch some Chinese Drama on TV. It’s a great way to get invested in learning a language but also you’ll fall in love with the characters.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I taught Chinese in India for 2 years.

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why?
Taitung is a place so beautiful you believe your eyes

Shayla

Language teacher

Where are you from?
I am from Taipei, Taiwan

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I’ve been teaching Mandarin for over 10 years

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
My favourite Taiwanese dish is scallion pancakes. Please try it when you come!

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
I love Dihua street. It’s a beautiful street full of old buildings.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
I think being able to read characters is very important!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
Aside from teaching Mandarin I’m am also an artist and graphic designer.

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why?
I love Taipei. It’s my home town so I’m a little bias but I really think it’s an incredible city and a wonderful place to live.

Peinie

Language teacher

Where are you from?
I’m from Taiwan

What are your teaching qualifications?
My university major is Chinese literature. I was trained at National Taipei University of Education and International Han Institute.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I’ve been teaching since 2016

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
I love spicy and hot pot. I think I’ve almost been to every restaurant in Taipei!

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
National Palace Museum, because I have an old soul and think it’s a wonderful place to hang out.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Imagination is your superpower, and forget your native language when you speak Chinese.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I have taught at Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico (Mexico) and National Chengchi University (Taiwan)
I also have taught a Malaysian ambassador and diplomat in Taiwan.

What is your favorite place in Taiwan and why?
National museum of marine biology and aquarium, because when you sleep in an aquarium, you’ll see the fish swimming above you, as if you are embraced by the sea.

Celine

Language teacher

Where are you from?
Taoyuan , Taiwan.

What are your teaching qualifications?
I have a Certificate of teaching Chinese as a second/ foreign Language from MOE.

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Summer of 2016.

Favourite Taiwanese dish?
My favourite Taiwanese dish is Douhua (豆花). Try it!

Where is your favourite place to go in Taipei?
Da-an Forest Park. It’s a wonderful place that I love to hang out in and read a book

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Talk with the locals! Don’t be shy we’re a friendly country!

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I have 17+ years of experience of training Tibetan Mastiffs!

What is your favourite place in Taiwan and why?
Taoyuan, because it is my hometown. I love going back to see friends and family.

Lily 李黎

Teacher

Position at LTL
Teacher

Where are you from? 
Hubei province. The city is called Yichang.

What are your teaching qualifications?
I graduated with a BSc in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language from Chinese Three Gorges University in Hubei and got my CTCSOL Certificate (Certificate for Teachers of Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages) in 2018. I am currently also studying a Masters in Teaching Chinese as an International Language at NTU Singapore.

Where have you taught Chinese before?
I taught Mandarin in Shanghai for almost two years and also in Beijing for one year.

Favourite Chinese dish? 
I love eating Hotpot 火锅 and Malatang 麻辣烫.

Where is your favourite place to go in Singapore? 
The beach at West Coast Park.

If you could be an animal what would you be and why? 
A bird because I could fly!

What is your top tip for our students?
Speak as much as you can with native Chinese teachers. Surround yourself with Mandarin where and whenever you can. Immersion is the key.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I can also speak German.

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Shanghai because it is a magical city. It has unlimited possibilities and you can meet from anywhere in the world. Something new happens in Shanghai every day.

Timothy 周蕴涛

Teacher

Where are you from？
I’m from Beijing, but you can’t hear my accent. I used to be a newscaster.

What are your teaching qualifications？
MA in Teaching Chinese from National Institute of Education, NTU

When did you start teaching Chinese？
I started teaching in 2001 and never stopped.

Favourite Chinese dish？
Málà xiāngguō, a dish I was tired of in Beijing, and now it is popular in Singapore, I fell in love with it again

Where is your favourite place to go in Singapore？
Xiǎofàn zhōngxīn （hawker centre）。The mood is vibrant, the dishes are cheap, and enjoying lunch in a tightly packed hawker centre is a genuine Singaporean experience not to be missed.

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese？
TALK, TALK and TALK

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
Friends call me “Little Prince of Southeast Asia”, because, I have lived here for more than 10 years and travelled for more than 10 years.

What is your favourite place in China and why?
My hometown! The most familiar people, the most familiar tastes are there.

Kristen 吴晶晶

Teacher

Position at LTL
Teacher

Where are you from? 
Wuhan in Hubei Province.

What are your teaching qualifications?
I graduated from Changchun Normal University in 2014 with a Bachelor in Education. I got my CTSOL (Certificate for Teachers of Chinese to Speakers of Other Language) from the Chinese Ministry of Education in 2016 and I am currently studying for my Masters in Teaching Chinese as an International Language.

Where have you taught Chinese before?
I taught Mandarin in Thailand and Azerbaijan for four years and in Singapore now for one year.

Favourite Chinese dish? 
I really like Sour Fish 酸菜鱼 and Malaxianguo 麻辣香锅.

Where is your favourite place to go in Singapore? 
Sentosa island because of the beautiful beach. I highly recommend it to newcomers!

If you could be an animal what would you be and why? 
A panda, because everyone loves pandas!

What is your top tip for our students?
Don’t be shy, just speak. Whatever your level, you are already good enough to speak. Be confident and just go for it.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I can speak four languages: Mandarin, English, Thai and Korean.

What is your favourite place in China and why?
Wuhan because it is my home town and the city is developing and changing all the time.

Yang 李洋瑒

Teacher

Position at LTL
I’m a teacher at LTL Singapore

What are your teaching qualifications?
My major is Teaching Chinese as an international language which I got from Nanyang Technological University. I have 7 years experience of adult education. I also have a certificate of accreditation in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language (Putonghua Level I Grade B).

Where have you taught Chinese before?
I taught Mandarin for 7 years in Xi’an previously.

Favourite Chinese dish? 
I can’t get enough of 宫保鸡丁 which is basically Kung Pao Chicken (or Gong Bao Ji Ding).

If you could be an animal what would you be and why? 
I would be a Lion because I am a person who likes to fight for everything and have passion.

What is your top tip for our students?
Study hard and play hard. You can make achieve your goals with determination.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I used to work for two days without breaks, so if I’m really passionate about something I love.

Zhongwen 仲文

Immersion Specialist

Where are you from?
I am actually born and bred in Chengde!

What are your teaching qualifications?
I have a MTCSOL in Teaching (Master of Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages for those who don’t know)!

How long have you been with LTL?
I joined LTL in 2011!

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I started teaching Chinese in 2010

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A racket because I love to play racket sports in my spare time.

Where is your favourite place to go in Chengde?
The Mountain Resort, Chengde’s famous UNESCO site (避暑山莊 Bìshǔ Shānzhuāng)

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Jason Statham – He is very handsome and so cool! Actually I named my son Jason also!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I would love to be a whale because I love to dive and being a whale would allow me to go anywhere in the world I wanted!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Immersion – If you really want to learn Mandarin you should only listen to, and speak Chinese during a certain period of time.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
My Chinese name (Zhong Wen) actually means “Chinese” in Chinese!!

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Of course my favourite place in China is my hometown, Chengde!

Tina 项义凤

Teacher

Where are you from?
Chengde

What are your teaching qualifications?
I have a degree for Teaching Chinese as a Second Language to Foreigners

How long have you been with LTL?
I joined over a decade ago, the first employee of the company!

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Over ten years ago

What is your favourite colour?
My favourite colour is blue!

What is your favourite Chinese dish?
I just love all home cooked Chinese food, our cuisine is so diverse!

If you could go anywhere in the World, where would you go?
I’d love to go to Africa, it’s very different to China and I’d love to explore the culture of Africa.

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
My family – I love them and I feel comfortable around them.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
A dog because my daughter loves to speak to them!!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Always speak, never stop speaking.

Tell me something about you that would surprise me!
I once ran away from home for seven days straight!

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Xiamen – it’s a small island which is just so beautiful and clean. The sea there is great.

Sammi 袁艺铭

Teacher

Where are you from?
From Chengde but regularly live between Chengde and Tianjin.

What are your teaching qualifications?
International Chinese Teachers Certificate and Putonghua Teaching Certificate.

How long have you been with LTL?
Over 3 years

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Since 2013

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A giraffe because they are my favourite animal!

Where is your favourite place to go in Chengde?
The Mountain Resort which in Chinese is 避暑山莊 Bìshǔ Shānzhuāng

If you could go anywhere in the World, where would you go?
Switzerland because of the chocolate!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
A bird because I could fly anywhere in the world whenever I want!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
You must have an interest in Chinese culture. You need to want to study Chinese. When it becomes a chore, you lose motivation. You have to enjoy China

What is your favorite place in China and why?
I love Chengdu (although this sound similar to Chengde, they are different)! The scenery there is so great.

Helena 吉丽娜

Teacher

Where are you from?
I am from Chengde

What are your teaching qualifications?
MTCSOL in Teaching (Master of Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages).

How long have you been with LTL?
Since 2017

When did you start teaching Chinese?
I’ve been teaching Chinese for a few years now

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
I brought in my board which I use every lesson. It’s so useful!

What country would you most like to visit and why?
Greece because it’s the place where civilisation started!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
William Alfred – It is said he is the smartest person to have ever lived.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I’d be an Immortal Jellyfish because they never die

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Use the Chinese language in your daily life all the time. Speak to yourself in Chinese.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
Chengde – I was born and raised here. It’s a great place to be.

Tonya 常聪颖

Teacher

Where are you from?
I am from Chengde which is in Hebei Province

What are your teaching qualifications?
Bachelor degree in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language

How long have you been with LTL?
I started working with LTL in 2017

When did you start teaching Chinese?
Back in 2013

We asked everyone to bring their favorite item, what item did you bring and why?
A teddy bear because of my child like heart!

Where is your favourite place to go in Chengde?
I love to visit the (little) Potala Palace

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
My students and my family. True love for true people!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
A Wolf – they have strong ability and they are natural born leaders!

What is your top tip for people learning Chinese?
Focus on one thing and stick with it. Do not compare yourself with others, focus on your own goals and you will succeed.

What is your favorite place in China and why?
My hometown – I have so many good memories here and a familiar feeling everyday