The group poses for a photograph holding "Go Jiangsu" signs at the opening ceremony of the dragon boat race in Suzhou, Jiangsu province on June 25. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Having experienced the charms of Suzhou and a number of Dragon Boat Festival traditions, many of the expats expressed their desire to visit the city again.

The group also visited Suzhou Jinji Lake Art Museum to view what can best be described as unique, modern, expressionistic art. It was anything but the traditional brush and water color paintings usually associated with Chinese art. Some of the expats said that it reflects how Suzhou is opening up its style and collective imagination to the world. And with all that the area has to offer, there's a good chance many of them will soon be back.

The Go Jiangsu trips are organized by China Daily and the Information Office of Jiangsu Provincial People's Government, with the aim of promoting the province to an international audience. Nine events have been held since 2018.