> many things have changed by now

I know it's stating the obvious, but even aside from covid, China and Russia have sunk from high to almost bottom of my travel list.

I would love to return to China - a few years ago I was there and loved it (and Hong Kong). But, the surveillance state and hostility towards Canada (i.e. two Cdns are currently being detained with very little of the customary consular accommodations) - makes it just too risky/unpredictable. Ditto for Russia.

Hopefully a change in US leadership will help restore relations between East and West!