He is not just any tourist. Behind the camera of Fan Yibo (Beijing) is a career spanning over two decades traveling the globe. He has set foot on Antarctica, the Arctic, documented 800 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and his postings on the Chinese social media platform Weibo have garnered a community of more than three million followers. However, when asked about Spain, a country he has visited ten times, his memory flies straight to the Aragonese capital. It was the first Spanish city he visited, back in 2009, and this month, he returned to reconnect with the Ebro River and confirm that, despite growth, Zaragoza retains its charm.
Question.– It is striking that a traveler who has visited 123 countries has such a bond with Zaragoza. How was that first romance with the city?
Answer.– For me, it is very special. I have been fortunate to travel to Spain more than ten times throughout my career, but the first city I set foot in all of Spain, 17 years ago, was Zaragoza. I had a great memory of it, and returning now has been a fantastic experience.
Q.– After almost two decades, how do you find the Aragonese capital? Has it changed much?
A.– Yes, I have noticed changes. I feel that the scale and size of the city have grown a bit compared to the Zaragoza I first knew. But the best part is that what I still love most about it is its current size. Compared to large cities like Madrid or Barcelona, the scale of Zaragoza is perfect because it doesn’t impose any pressure on the visitor. It is an extremely comfortable place, ideal for what we now call City Work (walking and exploring the city on foot). Its size seems ideal to me, quite perfect.
Q.– If you had to photograph a single corner, a single snapshot of Zaragoza for your millions of followers in China, which would you choose?
A.– I am very clear about it. I am fascinated by the monumental combination that arises from the Stone Bridge looking towards the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and how the Cathedral of the Seo integrates right next to it. That skyline, that architectural ensemble with the river and the two basilicas, is my favorite image of the city. Moreover, I think the urban park that stretches below, along the riverbank, is a great success. Seeing the residents of Zaragoza enjoy that setting for running or strolling in such a relaxed and free manner is wonderful. It means the city knows how to make the most of its public spaces.
Q.– We cannot talk about Zaragoza without mentioning its gastronomy. Have you had time to go tapas bar hopping?
A.– Of course! We have greatly enjoyed the gastronomy of Zaragoza. Its offerings are undoubtedly the best tapas I have tried across Spain. What has surprised me the most is its tremendous creativity. They manage to maintain a very traditional, authentic flavor from the region, but the way it is presented and executed is extremely innovative, original, and refined. These are not the conventional tapas that one might expect; it is high cuisine.
Q.– You are one of the most important tourism influencers in Asia. Would you recommend Zaragoza to tourists from your country?
A.– Honestly, I feel that most Chinese tourists planning their first trip to Spain only think of Barcelona or Madrid. Zaragoza is not usually on that initial list. However, if it’s their second time in the country, I would strongly recommend the city. Geographically, it has an unbeatable strategic location, right halfway along the AVE line between Madrid and Barcelona. But above all, I would highlight that it is a very quiet city with excellent safety, allowing tourists to completely disconnect, relax, and enjoy. And I don’t want to forget something vital: the people of Zaragoza are especially friendly, hospitable, and warm. That is the most important thing for a traveler.
