Tianjin's various attraction, both modern and traditional. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"There were limited choices for restaurants and entertainment and the chamber of commerce held only one event per month," he explained.

But over the years, Tianjin grew and changed rapidly.

"The government has invested a great deal in infrastructure in recent years, so the development in transport alone is surprising enough, then the airport and railway station got revamped, and several subways and a south station were built," he said. "It's becoming more convenient for my friends in Beijing to visit me. They tell me they'd like to stay in a fancy Tianjin hotel and enjoy a cozy weekend away from the tumultuous capital."