Photo: Daria Fominykh
Experiencer
By Daria Fominykh
Sergio Andres Galindo Torres, an associate professor at Westlake University’s School of Engineering, has made significant strides in Hangzhou over the past five years. Originally from Colombia, Sergio relocated from the UK to embrace the innovative environment at Westlake University. He also holds the prestigious Five-Star Card, a new version of China’s foreign permanent residence ID, underscoring his notable contributions.
On September 5, when AI Hangzhou--a platform designed to provide various digital public services to international visitors--was officially announced, Sergio and his family visited its booth at the Hangzhou International Food Festival. Sergio told Hangzhoufeel, “When I first arrived in Hangzhou, I faced the usual challenges, including cultural and language barriers. I wished for a tool like the AI Hangzhou mini-program back then--it would have made our transition much smoother!”
He noted that AI Hangzhou, easily accessible via Alipay, simplifies tasks like registering at the police station upon arrival in China and obtaining electronic SIM cards, easing the process of navigating daily life.
For Sergio, the App represents a major advancement, offering practical solutions to common challenges faced by newcomers. By streamlining essential tasks, AI Hangzhou helps expatriates settle in more comfortably, fostering a sense of belonging.