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!** ⛪