Big Fish and Begonia 大鱼海棠 – title song and clips

A fascinating interview with Afshin Rattansi. Don't miss it ...

With Eoin and Aisling ...

SuZhou, an exquisite water town, lies on the banks of the YangTse river and next to TaiHu lake. SuZhou is 45 minutes from Shanghai by train. This film includes the classical gardens and the SuZhou Art Museum.

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!

Bei Bei 贝贝 sings Fireworks 花火. Love this song (aka Matchsticks) ... Much more music : click here !

Provincial capital of GuangDong.

Experience the rich culture and breathtaking scenery ...

With Nick in China ... With Valerly Blank ... Visitor guide to YinChuan, capital of NingXia province Getting There By Air: YinChuan Hedong International Airport (INC) is well-connected with major Chinese cities. The airport is about 25 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or airport shuttle bus to your destination. By Train: YinChuan Railway Station offers regular train services to various cities across China, including Beijing, Xi'an, and Lanzhou. The high-speed train network makes travel convenient and efficient. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect YinChuan with other cities in NingXia and neighboring provinces. The YinChuan Long-Distance Bus Station is the main hub for these services. Accommodation YinChuan offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some recommended options include: Luxury: Kempinski Hotel YinChuan, YinChuan International Convention Centre Hotel Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express YinChuan Downtown, YinChuan XiYue International Hotel Budget: YinChuan Youth Hostel, various local guesthouses Attractions and Activities Historical and Cultural Sites Western Xia Tombs: Located about 35 kilometers from YinChuan, these ancient tombs are the resting place of the emperors of the Western Xia Dynasty. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the dynasty. NingXia Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of NingXia, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art. HaiBao Pagoda: Also known as the North Pagoda, this ancient Buddhist pagoda is one of the oldest and most well-preserved structures in YinChuan. Natural Attractions Sand Lake: A beautiful nature reserve located about 56 kilometers from YinChuan, Sand Lake is known for its stunning desert and wetland landscapes. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, boat rides, and sand dune activities. Helan Mountains: These mountains offer breathtaking scenery and numerous hiking trails. The region is also home to ancient rock carvings and the Helan Mountain Scenic Area. Modern Attractions Drum Tower: A central landmark in YinChuan, the Drum Tower is surrounded by bustling markets and streets lined with shops and restaurants. Zhongshan Park: A popular urban park that offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful gardens, lakes, and recreational facilities. Dining and Local Specialties YinChuan boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional NingXia cuisine and Hui Muslim specialties. Some must-try dishes include: Lamb Kebabs: A local favorite, these skewered and grilled lamb pieces are seasoned with a blend of spices. Hand-Pulled Noodles: Known locally as "Lamian," these noodles are served in a flavorful broth with beef or lamb. Eight-Treasure Tea: A traditional NingXia beverage made with a mix of tea leaves, dried fruits, and herbs. Shopping Night Markets: Explore the bustling night markets in YinChuan for a variety of street food, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. Shopping Malls: Modern shopping centers like Wanda Plaza and YinChuan Mall offer a wide range of international and local brands. Local Handicrafts: Look for traditional NingXia crafts such as Helan stone carvings, wool products, and Hui embroidery. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit YinChuan are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. Summers can be hot, and winters can be quite cold, so pack accordingly. Language: While Mandarin is the official language, some locals may speak the NingXia dialect. It's helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook if you don't speak Mandarin. Respect Local Customs: NingXia has a significant Hui Muslim population, so be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques and Hui neighborhoods. Conclusion YinChuan, the capital of NingXia Province, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient tombs, hiking in the mountains, or savoring local cuisine, YinChuan promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.