In a surprising turn of events, a 35-year-old man from Shanxi province, China, made headlines when he decided to cancel his wedding and embark on a journey across more than 40 cities, using the savings he had accumulated for his bride price. Known by the pseudonym Guo Xiao, the man’s decision came after he found himself 30,000 yuan short of the 190,000-yuan bride price demanded by his fiancée’s family.
Guo Xiao’s story began when he struggled to gather the hefty sum despite earning a modest monthly salary of 5,000 yuan. He managed to save 168,000 yuan, borrowing 20,000 yuan from a friend and relying on his parents to cover the down payment on a property, provided he would repay the loan. However, the situation reached a breaking point when his fiancée requested an additional 30,000 yuan, pushing Guo to his limits.
Feeling overwhelmed and helpless, Guo Xiao saw the cancellation of his wedding not as a defeat but as a liberating moment. He decided to use his savings to fulfill a different dream: to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of China. In June, he embarked on a year-long journey as a frugal traveler, setting off without a strict plan but with an eagerness to witness the world’s beauty.
As of now, Guo has traveled extensively, visiting over 40 cities and spending upwards of 30,000 yuan. Yet, as his journey progressed, his initial enthusiasm gradually faded, leading him to contemplate returning to his parents and continuing his search for a happy marriage.
Guo’s story has reignited discussions in China about the controversial custom of paying a bride price. This tradition typically involves the groom’s family paying the bride’s family a sum ranging from 10,000 to one million yuan. While it remains a deeply entrenched practice, many younger generations are increasingly questioning and resisting it. In one notable case, a man in eastern China ended his relationship when his girlfriend’s parents demanded a 380,000-yuan bride price.
Guo’s experience has struck a chord with many, prompting varied reactions from the public. Some commend his decision to prioritize his financial well-being and personal happiness over societal expectations, while others view his journey as a bold statement against an unfair tradition. Regardless of the opinions, Guo Xiao’s story is a poignant reminder of the evolving perspectives on marriage and customs in modern society.
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