World-class event gives media a glimpse of America

As a first-timer at a US political party convention, I found myself underdressed and inadequately prepared for this week's gathering of Republicans in Florida.

Despite having researched the election-year event, I was extremely anxious before heading to the coastal city of Tampa: What to write, whom to interview, what to bring, where to go, and even what to wear.

To cover the Republican National Convention from a Chinese perspective for China Daily readers, I decided to focus on foreign policy and trade issues.