How the US dollar’s ‘exorbitant privilege’ has enriched the USA (and global elites)

With EpicGlobe Walks ... Visitor Guide to the Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces Introduction The Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, Longsheng County, Guangxi Province, are one of the most breathtaking agricultural landscapes in the world. These terraces, which resemble a dragon’s scales, were first built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and have been maintained by the local Zhuang and Yao communities for centuries. The terraces are a testament to human ingenuity and harmony with nature. Best Time to Visit The Longji Rice Terraces are stunning year-round, but the best times to visit are: Spring (April–May): The terraces are filled with water, creating a mirror-like effect that reflects the sky and surrounding mountains. Summer (June–August): The rice paddies are lush and green, offering a vibrant landscape. Autumn (September–October): The rice turns golden, creating a warm, picturesque scene. Winter (November–February): The terraces are sometimes covered in snow, offering a serene and unique view. How to Get There The Longji Rice Terraces are approximately 100 kilometers from Guilin. Here’s how to reach them: By Bus: Take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Longsheng (about 2 hours). From Longsheng, transfer to a local bus or taxi to the terraces (another 1 hour). By Private Car: Hiring a private car or taxi from Guilin is a convenient option and takes about 2.5 hours. By Tour: Many tour operators in Guilin offer day trips to the terraces, including transportation and guided tours. Main Attractions 1. Ping’an Terraces The Ping’an Terraces are the most accessible and popular section of the Longji Rice Terraces. Highlights include: Seven Stars with Moon: A cluster of seven small rice paddies surrounding a larger one, resembling stars and the moon. Nine Dragons and Five Tigers: A scenic spot where the terraces resemble dragons and tigers. 2. Jinkeng Terraces The Jinkeng Terraces are less crowded and offer stunning views. Key spots include: Golden Buddha Peak: The highest point in the area, offering panoramic views of the terraces. Yao Minority Villages: Visit the traditional villages of the Yao people, known for their long hair customs. Activities Hiking: Explore the terraces on foot via well-marked trails. Popular routes include Ping’an to Jinkeng and vice versa. Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset. Cultural Experiences: Visit local villages to learn about the Zhuang and Yao cultures, including traditional dances and handicrafts. Tips for Visitors Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain is hilly and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Bring Layers: The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan to hike. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local cultures and traditions. Cash is King: Many local vendors and small businesses do not accept credit cards. Where to Stay There are several accommodation options near the terraces, ranging from guesthouses to boutique hotels. Popular choices include: Ping’an Village: Offers a range of guesthouses with stunning terrace views. Dazhai Village: Known for its Yao culture and cozy lodgings. Conclusion The Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking through the terraces, learning about local traditions, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, this UNESCO World Heritage Site promises an unforgettable experience.

With Ben Norton ...

ShaanXi province. With Walk East ... Bonus film - Xi'An city wall ...

AnHui province.

ZhangJiaJie is one part of WuLingYuan National Forest Park in HuNan province, south China, and is a wonderland of strange peaks, stunning valleys, ancient trees, caves and waterfalls. There are over 500 scenic spots in this area of outstanding natural beauty; it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In all, it covers around 700 square kilometers (270 square miles).

With Expat Natt ... "ExpFrom mud to masterpiece, join us this week as we uncover the history of Chinese porcelain, aka 'fine china'. Jiangxi province is home to the historic city of Jingdezhen, which played a major role in china's porcelain trade. The ceramic wares of this region made china famous during the silk road trade and were believed to be made with magic by europeans. The production of Jiangxi's ceramics were so influential, that they were even named 'fine china', meaning the fine wares which were made in China. We start our adventures by searching for the abandoned mountain mines which were home to the white clay, Kaolin, that first made this region world renowned. We then head over to the ancient village of Yaoli to see the influence of the porcelain industry and it's rich history which paved the path of the stunning pots and cermaic wares we see today. We search for ancient kiln sites in the surrounding countryside, and then head back into Jingdezhen city to see the remains of the incredible kilns that made the porcelain production come to life. Watch as artists hand mould, carve, and paint the breathtaking and intricate designs of cobalt blue on white clay. We even head to Sanbao International Ceramic Village to paint our own plates, and of course discover the mouthwatering local cuisine. Finally we venture into the local chinese night markets where local artists sell their bowls, vases, and china tea sets."

With Ben Norton / Geopolitical Economy Report ... Bonus films - with Mick Dunford ... With Think BRICS ...