Journey of a lifetime

By Zhou Wenting | Shanghai Star | Updated: 2014-09-12 10:43

On the road to Kanas, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Photo provided to Shanghai Star

They greeted the new year in Beirut, Lebanon, after a vehicle bomb exploded in the city. "We had planned to countdown (to the new year) in the central square, but there were even more police officers than civilians in the street after the bomb. So eventually our New Years Eve celebration was just the two of us," Shen says.

They say the most precious souvenir they took from the trip is the memories they will carry with them throughout their marriage.

"Life is long and boring, but the memories of this special honeymoon will be with us forever. When we encounter hard times and displeasure with each other, the fabulous memories will help us overcome the difficulties, which cannot be exchanged for any fortune," says Ma. The honeymoon cost them 280,000 yuan ($45,600).

He says the trip has enriched their mutual understanding and sense of attachment to each other.

"People take on multiple identities in the city. They are their parent's children, their bosses' employee. On a long trip, we discard these identities and fully reveal ourselves when we only have each other to depend on," he says.

About the couple

Him: Ma Jiawei, 30, automotive engineer

Her: Shen Ying, 27, planner at a performance company

Married: August 6, 2013