A visual guide to XiShuangBanNa 西双版纳, YunNan province

A fascinating look at the extraordinary history and transformation of ShangHai. With China Central TV (CCTV). Narrated by Owen Grant. Bonus film - sailing along the HuangPu River at night, between the Bund in PuXi (west of the river) and PuDong (east of the river). The most well known area of PuDong is the LuJiaZui finance and trade zone that includes the ShangHai Stock Exchange and many of ShangHai's highest buildings, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Jin Mao Tower, the ShangHai World Financial Center, and the ShangHai Tower. These modern skyscrapers directly face PuXi's historic Bund (meaning embankment), a remnant of former foreign concessions. PuDong also includes the Port of ShangHai, the ShangHai World Expo site and Century Park, ShangHai PuDong International Airport, the JiuDuanSha Wetland Nature Reserve, and the ShangHai Disney Resort. This 'New Area' has been established from almost nothing in just thirty years.

With Richard Turrin ...

With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... Dalian Visitor Guide Dalian, located in northeastern China’s Liaoning Province, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and rich history as a strategic port. Often called the “Pearl of the North,” Dalian offers a blend of European and Asian influences, making it a unique destination. How to Get to Dalian By Air: Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport (DLC) connects the city to major domestic and international destinations. By Train: High-speed trains link Dalian with cities like Shenyang, Beijing, and Harbin. By Ferry: Ferries operate to destinations like Yantai, Weihai, and Incheon (South Korea). By Road: Well-connected highways make Dalian accessible by car or long-distance bus. Top Attractions Xinghai Square The largest city square in Asia, Xinghai Square features a star-shaped fountain and scenic views of Dalian Bay. Visit during sunset for spectacular views. Golden Pebble Beach (Jinshitan Scenic Area) Known for its golden sand and unusual rock formations, this area also includes an amusement park, golf course, and hiking trails. Activities include swimming and kayaking. Tiger Beach Ocean Park A marine park with an aquarium, polar animal exhibits, and sea lion and dolphin performances. Don’t miss the massive tiger sculpture symbolizing the park. Dalian Forest Zoo This expansive zoo includes wild animals, panda habitats, and safari-style tours. Interactive activities like feeding giraffes are available. Russian Street A historic street with Russian-style architecture reflecting Dalian’s colonial past. Shop for souvenirs and enjoy traditional cuisine here. Binhai Road A scenic coastal road ideal for cycling, walking, or driving. Highlights include Bird Singing Woods and North Bridge. Zhongshan Square A European-style square surrounded by colonial-era buildings, now housing banks and offices. Visit in the evening to see the buildings illuminated. Bangchuidao Island A peaceful retreat with beaches, gardens, and hiking trails. Perfect for photography and relaxation. Lushun (Port Arthur) This suburb, also known as Port Arthur, played a significant role in the Russo-Japanese War. Key sites include Lushun Museum and Baiyu Hill. Activities and Experiences Beach hopping at Xinghai Beach, Fujiazhuang Beach, and Bangchuidao. Sampling fresh seafood such as sea cucumbers, scallops, and steamed crabs. Exploring the nightlife in Zhongshan District. Attending festivals like the Dalian International Beer Festival (July–August) and the Cherry Blossom Festival (April). Shopping at Friendship Square and Victory Square. Local Cuisine Steamed Scallops with Garlic: Fresh scallops topped with garlic and vermicelli. Sea Cucumber Soup: A delicacy known for its nutritional value. Jianbing (Chinese Crepe): A popular street food filled with egg, scallions, and sauce. Fried Clams: Stir-fried clams with garlic, ginger, and chili. Best Time to Visit Spring (April–June): Mild weather and blooming flowers make this an ideal season. Autumn (September–November): Cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. Summer (July–August): Perfect for beach activities. Transportation Metro: The Dalian Metro connects major tourist spots. Buses: Extensive routes provide affordable travel options. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Widely available and convenient. Use apps like Didi. Bicycles: Rent bikes to explore scenic areas like Binhai Road. Tips for Visitors Language: While Mandarin is the primary language, some signs and services are available in English. Currency: Carry Chinese yuan (RMB). Mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay are widely used. Weather: Pack light clothing and sunscreen in summer; warmer layers are needed in winter. Dalian offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with its scenic coastlines, rich history, and delicious cuisine making it an unforgettable destination.

With Richard Wolff and RJ Eskow ... Bonus film - with Garland Nixon ...

With Through The Eyes Of and Scott Ritter ...

BeiHai is a large port in the GuangXi region on China's southwest coast. In the city center, BeiBuWan Square has a fountain sculpture evoking the local pearl industry. Nearby, Old Street's 19th-century buildings incorporate Western elements. On the city's southern waterfront, the Silver Beach resort area (named for its light-gray sand) is home to a park with the giant BeiHai Music Fountain.

With Richard Wolff and Chris Hedges ...

Within ShangHai, the HuangPu River has an average width of 400 meters and is crossed by many subway train lines, other tunnels, bridges and ferries. The river divides the city into two regions: PuDong to the east and PuXi (the older part of Shanghai that includes the Bund) to the west. It is the last major tributory of the YangTse River before the East China Sea. Bonus film - a stroll along the Bund, in 4k / UHD ...

Xi'An is the provincial capital of ShaanXi, central China. August 13th 2016 : high heat alert - over 40C is seriously hot so take plenty of water (and some salty food). Xi'An is one of the oldest cities in China and was known as Chang'An prior to the Ming dynasty. Indeed, Xi'An is the oldest of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, having held this position under several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui and Tang. Xi'An was the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road trade route. Xi'An is also home to the Terracotta Warriors of Qin Shi Huang, who became China's first emperor after the Qin (dynasty: 220 to 210 BC) conquered / unified all of the other Warring States. Rather than maintain the title of 'king' borne by the previous Shang and Zhou rulers, he created the title of 'emperor' (皇帝, HuángDì), which would continue to be borne by Chinese rulers for the next two millennia.