Shen Yibing, from Chongqing, spends two years in Colombia for an exchange program and says he's deeply impressed by the friendliness of the people. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"The locals are willing to help you when you are in need. I made many friends there and often miss them," says the 36-year-old, who returned home in March 2016 after spending two years in Medellin teaching at a university as part of an exchange program.

Shen says that about two months after he arrived at Medellin, he returned home one night to see an elderly couple who lived next door waiting for him to celebrate his birthday.

"I was amazed and touched by their kindness. They knew it was my birthday from my Facebook account and even printed Chinese characters that mean 'happy birthday'," he says.

Contact the writer at xulin@chinadaily.com.cn