I arrived in my hometown last night, to spend some time with my parents. I can hear the firecrackers almost non-stop. I know I am in mainland China.

But, do I really know what it means to be in mainland China? Clearly not! Even though I come back to visit twice a year, and I have learned how to take a city bus, I clearly forgot about what I cannot get: Youtube, google phone, google search, etc.

I clicked a link in  my friend's email, and I was told "not available." Why not? I didn't understand. After a while, I realized that it's a Youtube link!

I tried to make calls via google phone, but the webpage was blank. I waited and waited, and then realized I had forgotten that this is mainland China!

I tried to search something online, and the search never went anywhere. GDI! I forgot Google search is not allowed here... But, why?