From Candy Request to Cross-Border Friendship: Italian Hotel Clerk Kicks Off Guangdong Tour

A heartwarming cross-border candy relay that began in February has reached a new chapter, as Karem, a Milan hotel receptionist who went viral for asking Chinese tourists to bring him Guangdong's crispy peanut candy, arrived in Guangdong Province early today.

Karem departed from Italy yesterday and landed in Shenzhen, kicking off a five-day tour of the southern Chinese province, according to a report by Southern Metropolitan Daily.

During his trip, Karem will visit the Hsu Fu Chi candy factory to try his hand at making the traditional crunchy candy. He will also travel to Guangzhou and Shenzhen to experience the region's tech-innovation atmosphere and savor authentic Cantonese cuisine.

Sun, the woman whose original social media appeal set off the candy relay, will accompany Karem. Sun told Southern Metropolitan Daily that she never expected to reunite with Karem. "I'm really looking forward to this trip," she said. "As a local, I want to introduce him to more Chinese delicacies and share our unique culture."

Sun also revealed that the Chinese student who first brought Karem the candy will join them. Together, they will embark on a culinary and cultural exploration, continuing to spread the cross-border friendship that captured hearts online.

The story began on February 17, when a post went viral showing Karem holding a Hsu Fu Chi candy wrapper and asking Chinese travelers to buy him the sweet treat. More and more Chinese tourists and local Chinese residents in Milan joined an impromptu "candy relay," delivering the small, nutty candy to the Italian front-desk worker.

In an exclusive interview with Southern Metropolitan Daily on March 5, Karem said, "Since then, I've had the pleasure of meeting many guests from China. Through these encounters, I've grown closer to Chinese culture and come to better understand the people of China. Everyone has shown incredible generosity toward my simple request. I want to sincerely thank every friend who extended this kindness."