Finally, the two started dating in November, and their relationship progressed smoothly to marriage after one and a half years.

“It’s a surprise for our friends because they didn’t realize we’d turn dating into a life-long commitment,” said Fatykhova.

Indeed, when they first arrived in Shanghai, they didn’t expect to find their other halves, instead seeking good jobs.

In October 2011, Komarov took a flight from Milan to Shanghai, anticipating new professional challenges and exotic life experiences in this flourishing metropolis, two years after Fatykhova, who came to China in 2009 after graduating from university in Novosibirsk, Russia.

A trip home made Komarov realize he was deeply in love with Julia.

Usually a vacation back home is what an expat looks forward to all year long, and there are so many things to do, such as meeting friends and partying. But this vacation, Komarov felt differently.

“I wanted to go back to see Julia right after I landed in Russia. As the vacation went on, I couldn’t stand being away from Julia and I knew I wanted to marry her.”

After going back to Shanghai, Komarov asked Fatykhova to live together.