As we descend into Beijng the mental preparation for arrival kicks in. Leaving the plane’s cocoon can be jarring and music is my way to ease into a new location, to regulate energy.

Literally 20 minutes to get from the plane through customs pick up luggage and clear the airport. Pre-filled forms is the biggest time saver – 3 forms to enter, 2 forms to leave. Taxi touts here are mild here compared to some cultures, but I enjoy seeing people hustle and they belong in this space. Beijing covered in a hazy fog. Ask the driver just to drive and on the way call colleague to figure out where the hotel is. Colleague speaks to driver. Arrive. Check-in, tune-out, good night.