While living in Changsha, China, in 2010, Dubai expatriate Andy Pacino got to grips with the local language in a rather unconventional way. Instead of the usual late night classes at a language institute, he chose a guitar, stage and microphone to learn Mandarin.

"I wanted to take on as much of the culture as I could, and to do that I felt I had to learn as much language as I could. I started with food, as I didn't want to starve to death, and got better, though it wasn't until I joined a local band that I could fully immerse myself in the language," said the British expat and head of teaching and learning dept, Murdoch University Dubai.

Yep, Hanging Catbones (the name of his band), ended up being his right of passage to learning all things Mandarin. And though he has since moved to Dubai, Pacino still has somewhat of a grasp on the language.

"It's been a few years since I practised but I still do when I get the chance, and as with everything, if you don't keep it oiled, it gets rusty. That's how my Mandarin is now. In Chinese it's putonghua, which means common language."

Working as a foreign liaison manager for Wai Mao Xue Yuen, Hunan International Business Vocational College, Pacino helped revamp the curriculum and set up an IELTS training course.

"I also helped to set up a kindergarten school with one of Hunan's most respected child psychologists, Dr Peng Xing."

Some of his most favourite memories while living in China - other than singing in the band - was holding baby pandas.

"I went to a couple of centres in Chengdu, where they breed them, and Ya An, where they set them free into the wild, and it is a fabulous experience. Pandas are the most laid back animals I have ever come across, and I love them. I held three of them and I kissed them too. I've even got the photos to prove it."

Now living in Dubai, Pacino said comparing China with the UAE is like chalk and cheese.

"Dubai in particular is so clean and bright, and they were only just getting to grips with this aspect in the city centre in Changsha. I've heard it's come on a long way since then though, with more education on the environment. They both have their own merits, but I love the experience and diversity of all the places I've lived and worked."

Though there are few spots in the UAE that remind him of his time in China, Pacino is looking forward to seeing what the UAE-China week will have on offer, including activities and shows that will no doubt stir up more nostalgic memories for him.

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