If you liked Guangzhou, you'll notice how affordable and flavorful their street food is compared to Hangzhou.

As someone from Hefei who's lived in Quanzhou for over a decade, I have to say I still haven't grown to like the local culture, climate, food, or even the dialect.

440 is a steal! How'd you manage to get that price?

Just arrived in Guangzhou today, I'll follow this guide tomorrow!

They're blunt because they have the 'capital' (status/power) to be. Us 'workhorses' can't afford to be assertive like that, no matter where we are.

A Diary of Wandering Around with No Specific Purpose

"Today, I decided to just stroll around with no particular plans."

I feel like if you're visiting Beijing as a tourist, it's mainly to see ancient architecture, museums, Tiananmen Square, and such, since it's the political capital. If you're coming for the food, well, you might be a bit disappointed as options can seem limited and we might not be the best hosts in that regard. (Though personally, I think Peking duck and copper pot hot pot are incredibly delicious, and Zha Jiang Mian is my absolute favorite!)

Any accommodation recommendations around here?

The essence of Hangzhou is about enriching your spirit and enjoying the scenery. It's not suited for a whirlwind, 'checklist-style' tour; you really need to take it slow to fully experience it.

Sure! Here's the translation of the review for the old hotel near West Lake, written with the intention of providing a handy guide for those planning to travel to Hangzhou:

Here is my review of this time-honored hotel located near West Lake, I hope it will help friends who are planning to explore Hangzhou:

• This hotel has been around for quite some time. I heard that many celebrities have stayed here, and it was also used as one of the filming locations for the classic TV series "The Legend of the White Snake" (a well-known mythical romance story in China featuring a dragon lady).

• The picturesque little yard inside the hotel is truly a sight to behold, and you can directly view West Lake from there with an excellent vantage point!

  • The environment here is exceptional and suitable for families with children to play and feed small fish and sparrows.
  • There are vending machines selling fish food on the second floor where we found our kids eagerly gathering these treats for hours of fun!

• Because it's an old hotel, its facilities in rooms cannot compare with those found in new smart hotels. But being prepared for this beforehand should not be a major issue as long as the overall cleanliness meets certain standards which it does for me.

• Important Reminder:

  • The front entrance of the hotel is a bit away from the main road, making it inconvenient for travelers to walk with their luggage.
  • What to do: It is strongly suggested that you make a reservation for pickup service with the hotel before arrival—it will save you much trouble!

A minor downside:

• The number of parking spots in the courtyard is quite limited, often seeing cars parked in the middle of it and spoiling the beauty of the scenery to some extent.
• Another thing to point out—I find that dining near this scenic area can be rather problematic:
  • Ordering takeout (food delivery) leaves less choice and slower delivery times.
  • Finding a good restaurant by yourself, the surroundings lack restaurants that really stand out and impress—indeed they're just mediocre.

#CaptivatingWesterlakeScenery #OscillatingWillowGreenFields #ParadiseOnEarthHangzhou #TravelToHangzhou #TravelJournal #RecommendedHotelNearHangzhouWesterlake

Ah, speaking of Hangzhou, my feelings towards the city are rather complicated:

• Upon first arriving in Hangzhou, I must admit, I was not entirely accustomed to it.
  • However, as time passed, I discovered that Hangzhou indeed has its very own unique flavor; its landscape differs from one season to another, and it is absolutely breathtaking!
  • In addition, I definitely have to give praise to "Zhe Li Ban" (let's assume it is a local government service APP or platform)!
    • With its ultra-efficient employees, using this app gives the sense that the entire city is brimming with high-tech convenience. It even has a hint of romance.
    • I also had the chance to experience some of the city's convenient welfare services which really felt thoughtful and attentive.
• But, recently upon returning, things seemed different.
  • Where once I perceived grandeur in those skyscrapers, they now appear a bit oppressive—the feeling akin to being trapped within a cage. I feel breathless.
  • This sentiment might be essential for someone planning a deep-dive trip, work, or life in Hangzhou to mentally prepare themselves; should you be particularly sensitive to urban ambience, there might be similar experiences.
• Therefore, I am now in a state of indecision: should I switch jobs, or perhaps relocate to a new city?

#Hangzhou #HangzhouWorkerView #UrbanFeelings #EmotionalAdjustment

Sure, I have got this! Let's talk about the Shantang Ancient Street in Suzhou – many people say it gets crowded and too commercialized, but I believe the way you explore might be off.

1. The Shantang Street is actually quite long!

• The total length of the street is around 3.6 kilometers – we can split it into an eastern and a western section.

2. Popular Tourist Traps vs Authentic Treasures

• The "commercialization" that people often refer to mainly concerns the eastern segment where there are loads of shops and people – what you imagine as a typical "touristy street".
• However, this is where the key lies: I would strongly suggest exploring the western segment.
  • The western segment is longer – roughly 2.4 kilometers.
  • Compared to the eastern part, the western segment is less crowded and more tranquil, providing a genuine feel of the old streets.

3. What makes the West Side special?

• As you walk further west, you'll eventually reach the famous Huqiu Pagoda!
  • (Mini Fact: Huqiu Pagoda, alternatively known as the "Yunyan Temple Pagoda", is a renowned ancient pagoda in Suzhou. It’s somewhat like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it also leans!)
• Moreover, along the western part of Shantang Street, you will come across seven stone pillars intricately carved with cats resembling [Chinese cats called civets].
  • (Another fact: In Chinese culture, civet cats serve almost as a symbol of fortune and guardian angels.)
• Hence, there's a local saying known as " Seven Cat Statues Guiding the Way to Huqiu" (or simply "Seven Cats Pointing to Huqiu") – meaning these seven civet cat statues seem to guide travelers towards Huqiu.

4. My small tip (underline required!):

• If you want to avoid the sea of crowds and to experience a less commercialized Shantang street, do visit the western segment for sure! The scenery and atmosphere are so different!
• Don't just cram up and visit the eastern side; the western segment is truly the hidden treasure!

I just had a bit of a confrontation with the tourist center at the scenic spot. They claimed they don't charge any handling fees, and the manager was adamant, completely denying they have physical tickets.

Suzhou Didi is just... ugh. It really damages the city's overall image.

Warning! Avoid 'Grandma Chunfeng' in Jinxi Ancient Town. They sold me spoiled 'freshly squeezed sugarcane juice' – it was an earthy yellow instead of the usual light green, totally unlike others. It made my stomach churn horribly.

What's going on? How did I end up getting tanned too?

Someone even asked my age, then blocked me right after. I'm willing to pay for you to get yourself checked out at No. 600 (a well-known mental health center in Shanghai).

This article used a total of four English words; things like 'popup' should be understood by everyone.

You're welcome.

If you'd visited Shanghai before, you would definitely have found it very prosperous. But going now, it truly feels different. Firstly, you've grown up and seen more. Secondly, other first-tier and near first-tier cities have developed, so the contrast isn't as stark.