Tucked away in Old Town Shanghai is a little hole-in-the-wall bar called Park Here. You might miss it if you’re not looking — tiny tables, round stools just barely off the ground, and a glowing street view framed by orange window panes.

I wasn’t planning to stop. I was just wandering after a quick errand — replacing my old OnePlus charging cable (RIP to the red supercharger). Two loops around the block later, soaked in Shanghai humidity, I needed a break. And Park Here called to me.

Inside, the place was cool — literally. The AC hit just right. I grabbed a cider on tap (yes, cider — they have it!) and took a seat at one of the tiny tables.

Not long after, a young woman joined me. “Anna,” she said, sliding a business card across the table like we were about to close a deal. And we almost did — she was selling knockoff purses, watches, belts… you name it. 😂

I smiled, said I was just here for the cider. She realized there was no sale to be made and left just as quickly as she came. 🤣

That’s when the second surprise hit me. I was in a little bar in the heart of Shanghai, sipping cider, and Kenny Chesney started playing. Followed by Tim McGraw. “Raise ‘Em Up.” “Meanwhile Back at Mama’s.”

I looked at the bartender — pink-highlighted hair, a low ball cap — not exactly the country music stereotype. But the playlist kept rolling. And there I sat, in the middle of China, feeling like I’d stumbled into a slice of home.

Just me, my cider, a bowl of peanuts, and a quiet evening soundtrack from the American South.

Sometimes the best moments are the ones you don’t plan. Just a stop to rest your feet, and you end up with a story.

Oh, and if you need a knockoff purses, I can set you up. 😉