Foreigner Writes to Chinese Embassy After a Special Act

Source: OT-Team(G), 南国早报

On August 28, the Chinese Embassy in Italy received a special letter of appreciation.

The letter was written by Italian tourist Milva Carnevali, who praised the quality of China's tourism services and shared a touching story from her trip to Guilin's Li River. During a river cruise in Yangshuo, she accidentally dropped her phone into the water. To her astonishment, a local bamboo raft worker dived into the river and eventually recovered it. This unexpected act of kindness left Milva deeply moved by the warmth and generosity of the Chinese people.

Milva began her two-week journey through China in mid-August. On August 19, while touring the Li River, her phone slipped from her pocket into the river. Her guide, Pan Guocan from Guilin Litravel International Travel Agency, quickly sought help from bamboo raft workers at the pier. Several people offered assistance, and 51-year-old raft worker Huang Qibin immediately jumped into the water.

The river, swollen nearly three meters after heavy rain, was turbulent and muddy, with almost no visibility underwater. Huang repeatedly dove beneath the surface, groping for the lost phone. "It was very difficult to search," Huang recalled. "I told the tourist to continue her trip, and if I found the phone, the scenic area staff would deliver it to her." After more than 20 dives over 40 minutes, Huang finally retrieved the device.

When Milva completed her tour, staff returned her phone—still in working condition. She was both overjoyed and regretful that she could not thank Huang in person, as he had already departed for work. In her letter, she wrote: "The worker's swift response and selfless spirit truly shocked me! Through this letter, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to this kind and brave man. I am also grateful to my guide, Pan Guocan, whose quick thinking, professionalism, and attentive care made me feel safe throughout the incident." At the end of her letter, she added: "I will treasure this beautiful memory forever."

On August 30, upon learning of the letter, Huang said: "I felt very happy to help the guest get her phone back. Anyone working in the Li River scenic area would have done the same."