Divine & Delicious: A Solo Trip to Xiamen’s Catholic Church & Eighth Market

#summervacay **Why Go Solo?** This hidden **Gothic-style church** sits steps away from Xiamen’s chaotic **8th Market**—a perfect blend of spiritual serenity and street food chaos. Ideal for solo travelers who love contrast! --- ### **Your Perfect Visit Itinerary** #### **⛪ Morning: Heavenly Architecture** - **8:30 AM:** Arrive at **Xiamen Catholic Church** (厦门天主堂) on **Siming North Road**. Snap photos of its **stained glass** and twin spires (built in 1917!). - **9:00 AM:** Light a candle (¥5) or sit quietly—locals often pray here before market shopping. #### **🦞 Midday: Market Feasting** - **10:00 AM:** Dive into **8th Market** (八市), Xiamen’s oldest wet market: - Try **oyster omelets** (蚵仔煎) at **Youaijia**. - Sip **peanut soup** (花生汤) from **Lao Si Zhi**. - Brave **stinky tofu** at a stall with the longest line! #### **☕ Afternoon: Hidden Cafés** - **1:00 PM:** Escape the noise at **32/HOW** (art café in a colonial villa) or **Thank You Café** for matcha lattes. #### **🌇 Sunset: Riverside Walk** - **5:00 PM:** Stroll along **Gulangyu View Corridor** (10 mins west) for sunset over the island. --- ### **💰 Budget Breakdown** - **Church:** Free (donations welcome) - **Market Feast:** ¥30–50 - **Café:** ¥20–40 ### **⚠️ Solo Tips** - **Dress modestly** (no shorts/sleeveless in church). - **Market Etiquette:** Point & smile to order—most vendors don’t speak English. - **Go Early:** Market peaks at 7-9AM; church is quietest weekdays. **Why It’s Perfect for You:** A sensory adventure—from whispered prayers to sizzling woks—all in one block. **Tag your journey #xiamensacredspice!** ⛪