A drive through BeiJing 北京

Coach window view.

A quite interesting view of Beijing's wide and green ring roads.

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and modernity. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect as a tourist in Beijing:

Historical Landmarks:
The Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic structures in the world, the Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing. Mutianyu and Badaling sections are popular among tourists.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast imperial palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It houses numerous halls, courtyards, and historical artifacts.

Temple of Heaven: A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, this ancient temple complex served as a place of worship for emperors to pray for good harvests.

Summer Palace: A stunning ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the Qing dynasty.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is flanked by important landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Cultural Sites:
Beijing Hutongs: Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences of Beijing's historic neighborhoods. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander around on foot.

Beijing Opera: Experience traditional Chinese opera performances at venues like the Liyuan Theater or the Chang'an Grand Theatre.

798 Art District: A hub of contemporary art and culture, this former industrial area is now home to numerous galleries, studios, and cafes.

Modern Attractions:
Olympic Park: Visit iconic structures such as the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

CBD (Central Business District): Marvel at the futuristic skyline of Beijing's modern business district, which includes landmarks like the CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center Tower III.

Culinary Delights:
Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's most famous dish, crispy roast duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Street Food: Explore the city's vibrant street food scene and sample local delicacies like jianbing (savory crepes), lamb skewers, and dumplings.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan your travels accordingly.

Language: While English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas, many signs and transportation announcements are in English. It's helpful to carry a translation app or a phrasebook.

Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and using both hands to pass or receive items.

Beijing offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, blending ancient heritage with modern innovations. Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

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A trip to KunMing, ‘Spring City’, capital of YunNan province

With Feeding Foca ... Welcome to KunMing: The Spring City KunMing, the capital of YunNan province, is known for its pleasant climate, rich history, and stunning natural scenery. This guide will help you explore the best of what KunMing has to offer. Top Attractions in KunMing Stone Forest (Shilin) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stone Forest is a remarkable natural wonder featuring towering limestone formations. It's located about 90 kilometers from KunMing and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Dianchi Lake Dianchi Lake, also known as KunMing Lake, is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan. Visitors can enjoy boating, walking along the lakeside, and visiting nearby temples. Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park) Located in the heart of KunMing, Green Lake Park is a peaceful retreat with beautiful lotus ponds, pavilions, and walking paths. It's a great spot for relaxation and people-watching. Yuantong Temple Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in KunMing, dating back over 1,200 years. The temple features a unique layout with a large pond in the center and beautiful architecture. Local Cuisine KunMing is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes: Crossing the Bridge Noodles (Guo Qiao Mi Xian) A traditional Yunnan dish consisting of a bowl of hot broth, rice noodles, and various toppings like meat, vegetables, and herbs. The dish is served with the ingredients separate, allowing you to mix them as you like. Steam Pot Chicken (Qi Guo Ji) This dish is cooked in a unique clay pot that traps steam, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken. It's often served with medicinal herbs for added health benefits. Yunnan Rice Cakes (Er Kuai) These chewy rice cakes are a staple in Yunnan cuisine. They can be stir-fried, grilled, or served in soups. Transportation KunMing is well-connected and easy to navigate. Here are some transportation options: KunMing Changshui International Airport The airport is located about 25 kilometers from the city center and offers domestic and international flights. Taxis and airport shuttles are available for transportation to the city. Public Buses KunMing has an extensive public bus network that covers most of the city. Buses are affordable and a convenient way to get around. Metro KunMing's metro system is modern and efficient, with several lines connecting key areas of the city. It's a great option for avoiding traffic. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps are popular in KunMing. They offer a convenient way to travel, especially for shorter distances. Best Time to Visit KunMing is known as the "Spring City" due to its mild climate year-round. However, the best time to visit is from March to October, when the weather is most pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom. Tips for Visitors Wear comfortable shoes, as many attractions involve walking or hiking. Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes. Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Enjoy your trip to KunMing!

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The BBC never stops these days with its China demonisation – but who really has the health crisis ?

Too many things to cover, but one is the attempt to portray China as 'hiding something' and that according to 'reports' (never cited, but no doubt intel fronts) things are 'really bad' ('trust us' - lol). This is a good example of where 'news' is not really news at all, but the attempt to instigate uprising by pedaling false information. In one of its latest salvos, it notes one young death of a celebrity and then adds some more, all of which were over 80. One could explain why this is so absurd, but it is obvious. That is one reason why BB recommends Chinese people to not travel to, study in, or invest in, the UK (a small US puppet island off the west coast of Europe). Still want to go to the UK ? Remember that if you get stabbed (common), you could be waiting over 24 hours for an ambulance, spend many more hours lying in it before being off-loaded onto a trolley in a hospital corridor, before maybe being treated (if still alive). That's how it is there; just so you know. See the BBC ; ) No wonder they need to try and divert one's attention with smoke and mirrors (lies) ... So, which country really has the health crisis ???

Taz and Libby visit awesome ZhangJiaJie, HuNan province

With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... ZhangJiaJie, located in HuNan province, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and deep ravines. It gained international fame as the inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie "Avatar." This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Zhangjiajie. Top Attractions Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, is the primary attraction. It is famous for its quartz-sandstone pillars, some of which reach over 200 meters in height. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: This iconic peak was renamed after the film "Avatar" and is one of the most photographed spots in the park. Yuanjiajie Scenic Area: Home to stunning vistas and the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural rock bridge. Golden Whip Stream: A beautiful, serene area ideal for hiking, featuring crystal-clear streams and lush vegetation. Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Mountain is another must-see attraction, known for its dramatic scenery and thrilling experiences. Glass Skywalk: A transparent walkway that clings to the side of the mountain, offering vertigo-inducing views. Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate): A massive natural arch in the mountain, accessible via a long staircase. Tianmen Mountain Cableway: One of the longest cable car rides in the world, providing stunning aerial views. Baofeng Lake Baofeng Lake offers tranquil boat rides surrounded by stunning karst scenery. It's a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Yellow Dragon Cave Yellow Dragon Cave is a vast karst cave system featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. It is known for its grand chambers and intricate rock formations. Geology of Zhangjiajie The unique geology of Zhangjiajie is what makes it so stunning. The area is characterized by its towering quartz-sandstone pillars that were formed through a combination of geological processes over millions of years. The region was once submerged under an ancient ocean, and over time, the uplift and erosion sculpted these dramatic formations. The pillars are a result of physical weathering, primarily caused by wind, frost, and the growth of plant roots, which break down the rock. The unique climate and vegetation of the area have also contributed to the landscape's current form. Touring the Park Planning Your Visit To make the most of your visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it’s important to plan your route and time your visits to avoid the crowds. A typical visit to the park can take 2-3 days to cover the main highlights. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Morning: Start early at the park's main entrance. Take the shuttle bus to the Yellow Stone Village area. Spend the morning exploring the trails and enjoying the panoramic views. Afternoon: Head to Golden Whip Stream for a peaceful hike along the stream. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for all ages. Day 2: Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain Morning: Take the park shuttle bus to the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Explore the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the First Bridge Under Heaven. Afternoon: Continue to Tianzi Mountain for more spectacular views. Take the cable car down for a different perspective. Day 3: Tianmen Mountain Morning: Take the Tianmen Mountain Cableway from Zhangjiajie City to the top of the mountain. Walk along the Glass Skywalk for thrilling views. Afternoon: Visit Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate). Descend via the 999 steps or take the escalator. Activities and Experiences Hiking Zhangjiajie offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. Popular hikes include the Golden Whip Stream trail and the various paths around Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Photography The unique landscapes of Zhangjiajie provide endless opportunities for photography. Key spots include the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the Glass Skywalk, and the views from the Tianmen Mountain cable car. Local Cuisine Try local Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and use of chili peppers. Signature dishes include spicy fish head, fried rice noodles, and various stir-fried meats and vegetables. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Zhangjiajie are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers fewer tourists and a different but beautiful snowy landscape. Getting There Zhangjiajie is accessible by train, bus, and air. The Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport has flights from major Chinese cities. There are also direct trains and buses from Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province. Accommodation There are numerous accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Staying in Wulingyuan Town provides easy access to the national park, while Zhangjiajie City offers more amenities and is closer to Tianmen Mountain. Tickets and Passes Purchase tickets for the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which includes Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, online or at the entrance. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore the area thoroughly. Separate tickets are required for Tianmen Mountain and other attractions. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, providing insights into the area's history, culture, and natural features. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.