Bar hopping – three days in Hong Kong

With Byanca G ...

Beautiful views ...

DéTiān PùBù, 'Virtuous Heaven Waterfall', is Asia's largest and easily viewed by walkways and boat. The waterfalls lie in the south of GuangXi province on the border with Vietnam. There are buses from NanNing, the provincial capital.

The Snow and Ice Festival runs mid-January to the end of February, approximately, each year.

With Lena Petrova ... With Thinkers Forum ... With Ben Norton ... With Brian Berletic ... With Hakim ... With The Gravel Institute ... With Cyrus Janssen ... With Democracy Now ... YT comment : "I always thought that the Chinese people were brainwashed, and then I found out that it was me!" Some thoughts on why China is such a safe country : At root, crime is down to poverty and an over-the-top individualism. Western style democracy is really divide and rule - the moneyed elite love it, how the people are so easily fooled and controlled. Projection - what the West accuses China of are actually its own faults. Western democracy is top down and all about big money. In China, democracy is bottom up and meritocratic. The reason for the West's antagonism is not about politics, but success; the US wants to control the whole world (hegemony); and Western style democracy, if they can establish it in other countries, makes that easy. Friendly people are happy people.

With RealSamanthaBrown ... Bonus film, with Ken Abroad ...

With China Walking Tour ... Visitor Guide to MingShui Ancient Town, ShanDong Province Overview MingShui Ancient Town, located in the city of JiNan in ShanDong Province, is a well-preserved historical town with a rich cultural heritage. Known for its traditional architecture, charming streets, and historical sites, MingShui offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and culture of ancient China. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is JiNan Yaoqiang International Airport (TNA), located about 50 kilometers from MingShui. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to MingShui. By Train: JiNan Railway Station and JiNan East Railway Station offer convenient connections to MingShui. From these stations, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach MingShui. By Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby cities such as JiNan and Tai'an provide direct routes to MingShui. The main bus station in MingShui is MingShui Long-Distance Bus Station. Getting Around Walking: MingShui Ancient Town is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical architecture and charming streets. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and nearby attractions at your own pace. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of MingShui and JiNan. Main Attractions MingShui Old Street MingShui Old Street is the heart of the ancient town, lined with traditional buildings, shops, and tea houses. Strolling along this street, you can experience the charm of old China and discover local handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs. Yunmen Temple This historic Buddhist temple is a significant cultural site in MingShui. The temple features ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate statues, making it a peaceful place for reflection and exploration. MingShui Ancient City Wall The ancient city wall of MingShui is a testament to the town's historical importance. Visitors can walk along the wall and enjoy panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. Shuiyue Pavilion Shuiyue Pavilion is a beautiful structure located near a serene pond, offering a picturesque setting for photography and relaxation. The pavilion is a great spot to enjoy the tranquility of the town. Traditional Folk Houses Scattered throughout MingShui are traditional folk houses that showcase the architectural styles and living conditions of ancient Chinese families. These houses provide a fascinating look into the past. Local Cuisine MingShui's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Here are some must-try dishes: MingShui Tofu: This locally made tofu is known for its delicate texture and rich flavor, often served with a variety of sauces and garnishes. Shandong Pancakes: A popular local snack, these thin pancakes are typically filled with vegetables, meat, or seafood. Local Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served with a variety of toppings, including vegetables, meat, and savory broths. Traditional Pastries: Try the local pastries, which are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and baked to perfection. Shopping Local Handicrafts: MingShui is known for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, paper-cutting, and embroidery. These items make for unique souvenirs. Antique Shops: Explore local antique shops for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles. Local Markets: Purchase fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional items at the town's bustling markets. Accommodation Traditional Inns: For an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional inn or guesthouse, which often feature historical architecture and local decor. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the MingShui Hotel and local boutique hotels provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels in and around MingShui offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit MingShui are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: MingShui is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion MingShui Ancient Town, with its rich history, traditional architecture, and serene environment, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, savoring local cuisine, or visiting historical sites, MingShui provides an unforgettable glimpse into the past. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming town in ShanDong Province.

Overview ShenZhen (深圳) is a modern metropolis located in Guangdong Province, bordering Hong Kong. It's renowned as a major tech hub and a gateway to China's manufacturing industry. The city's skyline is dominated by sleek skyscrapers, reflecting its status as a global innovation center. Top Attractions Splendid China Folk Village (锦绣中华民俗村) - Jǐnxiù Zhōnghuá Mínsú Cūn Window of the World (世界之窗) - Shìjiè Zhī Chuāng Dameisha Beach (大梅沙海滨公园) - Dàméishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán Lianhua Mountain Park (莲花山公园) - Liánhuā Shān Gōngyuán Shenzhen Museum (深圳博物馆) - Shēnzhèn Bówùguǎn Dafen Oil Painting Village (大芬油画村) - Dàfēn Yóuhuà Cūn Nanshan Cultural Tourist Zone (南山文化旅游区) - Nánshān Wénhuà Lǚyóu Qū Shenzhen Bay Park (深圳湾公园) - Shēnzhèn Wān Gōngyuán Shenzhen Safari Park (深圳野生动物园) - Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán Tech and Innovation Huaqiangbei Electronics Market (华强北电子市场) - Huáqiángběi Diànzǐ Shìchǎng Shenzhen Bay Tech Ecological Park (深圳湾科技生态园) - Shēnzhèn Wān Kējì Shēngtài Yuán Tencent Seafront Towers (腾讯滨海大厦) - Téngxùn Bīnhǎi Dàshà DJI Flagship Store (大疆旗舰店) - Dàjiāng Qíjiàn Diàn Shopping and Dining Coco Park and OCT-LOFT (coco park 和 华侨城创意文化园区) - Huáqiáo Chéng Chuàngyì Wénhuà Yuánqū Dongmen Pedestrian Street (东门步行街) - Dōngmén Bùxíng Jiē OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park (华侨城创意文化园区) - Huáqiáo Chéng Chuàngyì Wénhuà Yuánqū Laojie (Old Street) in Luohu (罗湖老街) - Luóhú Lǎojiē Nightlife and Entertainment Shekou Sea World (蛇口海上世界) - Shékǒu Hǎishàng Shìjiè Futian and Luohu Districts (福田和罗湖区) - Fútián hé Luóhú Qū Coco Park and OCT Bay (coco park 和 华侨城创意文化园区) - Huáqiáo Chéng Chuàngyì Wénhuà Yuánqū Shenzhen Concert Hall (深圳音乐厅) - Shēnzhèn Yīnyuètīng Practical Tips Transportation: Utilize Shenzhen's efficient metro system and ride-hailing apps. Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases for easier communication. Safety: Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Visa: Check China's visa policy based on your nationality. Currency: Use local currency (Renminbi) for transactions. Weather: Pack accordingly for Shenzhen's subtropical climate. Hidden Gems Wutong Mountain (梧桐山) - Wútóng Shān Dapeng Ancient City (大鹏古城) - Dàpéng Gǔchéng Guangdong Hakka Museum (广东客家博物馆) - Guǎngdōng Kèjiā Bówùguǎn Additional Dining Recommendations Dim Sum: Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum. Seafood: Indulge in fresh seafood in Shekou. Street Food: Explore Dongmen Food Street for local snacks. By exploring these attractions, dining spots, and practical tips, you'll have a comprehensive guide to experiencing Shenzhen's rich blend of culture, technology, and natural beauty.