Couldn’t agree more—the humidity combined with heat is brutal.

I probably won't go to Japan in my lifetime.

A warm breeze from the Pacific.

Sure, here's the translation:

Alright, are you considering a trip to mainland China or Taiwan, perhaps even both? Wonderful! Both are spectacular yet strikingly different. Here are a few tips based on my observations, particularly if you're not familiar with this part of the world.

• Speaking of mainland China, it's immense. No exaggeration, it's unbelievably vast.

  • It features everything from megacities like Beijing and Shanghai—packed with skyscrapers and ancient temples—to breathtaking natural landscapes like the limestone peaks near Guilin or the deserts in the west.
  • Internet Access Warning:
    • This is a substantial concern. Just forget trying to access Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, et al. They're largely inaccessible due to the infamous "Great Firewall."
    • Solution: Prior to landing, ensure you've secured a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on both your phone and laptop. Be prepared for possible slowness or intermittent connectivity issues.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Using cash is increasingly uncommon; practically everyone opts for mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
    • Solution: As tourists, setting these up can be tough without a local bank account. Major tourism sites may accept foreign credit cards, but don’t assume so everywhere. Always carry some cash (RMB, China’s currency), especially for smaller establishments or when your phone runs out of juice.
  • Language Barrier:
    • Away from major hotels and major tourist attractions in big cities, English is rarely spoken.
    • Solution: Having an offline-capable translation app on your phone is invaluable. Learning some essential Mandarin phrases like "你好" (nǐ hǎo - hello), "谢谢" (xièxiè - thank you), and "多少钱?" (duōshao qián? - how much?) will undoubtedly smooth things over.
  • The transportation network, powered by high-speed trains, is truly impressive! However, if you struggle with reading Chinese, ticket booking can become tricky—consider using a travel app in your native tongue or seek assistance from your hotel.

• Then there's Taiwan. It's an island located east of mainland China.

  • Picture phenomenal street food (must visit the night markets!), warm-hearted locals who love showing off their natural beauty, and mountainous terrain. Compared to some mainland cities, the atmosphere is more relaxed. Taipei, the primary city, is both ultramodern and rich in culture.
  • The internet environment is much more friendly—unlike mainland China, where large international websites are banned.
  • Predominantly using traditional Chinese characters, people talk Mandarin Chinese here, significantly distinct from the simplified variants popular in mainland China. In places frequented by tourists, you will find more people who speak English, especially among the young generation.
  • Tip: Embrace Taiwanese cuisine! Don’t shy away from trying anything at the night markets. Stinky tofu? Have a bite! Bubble tea? Of course!
  • The transportation system allows for relatively convenient travels, with its well-functioning trains and buses in place.

Final Thoughts:

• Both are fantastic destinations.
• As for mainland China, preparation is key: pre-arrange for a working VPN, explore how you plan to manage payments (carry cash and hope for credit card acceptance, or attempt getting acquainted with the payment apps, if you dare/stay long term), and ready your translation app.
• On the other hand, Taiwan tends to be slightly more user-friendly for foreign travelers regarding internet and language (though some rudimentary Mandarin phrasings will always be welcome)!

I hope this insight helps a bit with planning. Have fun exploring both regions!

No, not really.

Not really. In my opinion, Guangzhou has the worst weather in the world. Even Shenzhen isn't as sweltering and humid.

Is it cold enough to wear a woolen coat, dear?

Beijing attraction booking info and food guide updated on my homepage!

Please heed my advice: don't overestimate your stamina, nor should you underestimate the magnitude of Beijing! Plans are often ambitious, but come the day of execution, it becomes clear that your body simply can't keep up. Plans will never outpace change – this saying couldn't be truer.

Finally catching up with posts about the delayed Beijing trip:

• Day three’s originally planned itinerary went as follows:

  • Yonghe Temple (a famous Tibetan Buddhist temple) → Wudaoying Hutong (a trendy alley with shops and cafes) → Summer Palace (a vast imperial garden with a boating plan!)

• However, my actual day three itinerary looked something like this:

  • I left at 8am feeling energized straight towards the Forbidden City (the former imperial palace).

    • As I missed the Forbidden City the previous day, I double-checked that my ticket was for that morning.
    • Result: Total embarrassment! At the checkpoint, the machine displayed an invalid ticket – only to find out that it was for the next day’s entry. (A foolish mistake twice made is proof of great stupidity!)
      • Tip: Seniors and minors (if traveling with elders or kids) may be able to purchase tickets on-site if lucky.
      • However, “middle layers” like myself had no such luck. Buy tickets online well in advance, and ensure you don’t mess up the date!

  • Faced with no other choice, we split into two groups.

  • On our way to the Imperial Ancestral Temple (now known as Labor People’s Culture Palace), which sits adjacent to Tiananmen Square, we witnessed a guards training session.

    • Wow, it was breathtaking! 🫨
    • Caution: Should you encounter such a scenario, abide by requests not to photograph or pose with them.

  • Next stop was the Temple of Heaven (where emperors would pray for good harvests).

    • We arrived around 10:30.
    • Inside were many street photographers offering photos for 15 yuan each.
    • High Alert: Refrain from agreeing to their proposed "packages"!
      • One female photographer I observed appeared competent enough.
      • What followed, however, was quite displeasing – additional fees were demanded at so-called "optimal locations", leaving one with disfigured faces on many photos. It was truly a 'meme disaster', tears welling yet no tears to shed.

  • We left The Temple of Heaven at 12:34pm.

  • Initially keen on rescheduling the afternoon, my brother then called, informing they already departed from the Forbidden City and were heading to the Summer Palace.

  • Well, time to adapt, rush toward the Summer Palace on the double!

  • We reached Summer Palace around 2 PM.

    • Weather was abysmal, smog heavy, visibility poor.
    • The entire Summer Palace seemed gray, all colors washed away.
    • Prior readings suggested entering via North Palace Gate, proceeding to Marble Boat, then taking a boat ride across Kunming Lake to reach Seventeen-Arch Bridge.
      • Sounds simple enough, right? In practice, it gets complicated.
      • Key Note: Starting from North Palace Gate means heading up the mountain first! North gate is at the back of Longevity Hill, while the front of the hill marks the entrance.
      • While descending, you will pass by a pavilion named "Landscape Pavilion of Lake and Mountain."
        • A true testament to ancient wisdom, the pavilion reveals different vistas from every angle.
      • Continuing down, you reach the world-renowned "Strolling Among Paintings" scenic area.
        • Many eager visitors take pictures in this picture-perfect spot.
        • Here too, street photographers prevail.
        • Remember: Not everyone holding a camera is a proper photographer! Some only claim to be professionals, aiming to capitalize on unsuspecting tourists.
          • We encountered one man with glasses offering service in the first floor courtyard. My brother disregarded my objection, rushed forward to negotiate prices.
          • After taking a series of photos, most turned out unusable. The photographer made no effort at posing guidance, the photos poorly exposed, a waste.
      • Upon descending "Strolling Among Paintings," a left turn takes you to the right corner of Kunming Lake – the Marble Boat.
        • Boats cost 40 yuan per person.
        • Sadly, smog severely obscured lake views.
      • We disembarked at South Lake Island, passed over Seventeen-Arch Bridge.
      • Viewed the bronze ox - believed to be Niu Lang (a mythical figure)’s avatar.
      • Few photos taken as a keepsake; departure around 4:48pm.

Phew! That’s it for now, to be continued!

Do you have any recommended spots? Preferably near West Lake.

What I did afterward was collect evidence and file a complaint with the platform, using pretty strong language and stating I'd report them to the Hangzhou Culture and Tourism Bureau and the Consumer Council. The platform manager then refunded all our in-trip expenses and even offered an additional free tour. However, I'd completely lost trust in them, so I only accepted the refund. You could try reporting to the platform first.

Could you explain why? I was actually planning to go tomorrow.

Alright, leave it to me! I will make it clear and easy to understand, even for foreign friends who will be captivated by it!

A Few Complaints on Travel

Today, let’s put aside other matters and express some thoughts about travel. This is purely based on my personal views; if they do not interest you, please don’t bother me!

• Since graduating from college, I've traveled across many places.
  • Far-flung regions like Russia, Turkey, Egypt, Malaysia, and Indonesia were among the first on the agenda.
  • Within China, I've also been to unique places like Tibet (a mysterious highland sanctuary), Xinjiang (with incredibly sweet melons and awe-inspiring scenery!), Yunnan (teeming with ethnic minority customs), as well as large cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.
  • Recently, I'm planning to visit Sichuan with my family, where we can catch a glimpse of adorable giant pandas and savor some super spicy delicacies!
• Why am I suddenly writing about this? Mainly because I've realized that people approach travel differently when they reach their 30s compared to their 20s.

• When I was in my twenties:
  • Everything seemed new and exciting, with an insatiable curiosity towards the world! Back then, I didn't shy away from solo adventures in places like Malaysia, Indonesia, or even Tibet. It felt invigorating to experience life.
  • Remember, I used to spend every penny I earned on trips without saving anything - I was known as a "moonlight clan," with a penchant for spending and little savings.
• Compare this to now, at age thirty:
  • Passion and enthusiasm have dwindled. Even some impressive landscapes only inspire a passing "okay" to me.
  • Solo travels are no longer on the agenda.
  • (Mainly because I started saving, considering future goals such as marriage and children, plus financial hardships have made us more cautious.)

• Observing my peers, many have embarked on the path of marriage and childbearing after graduation. Their lifestyles tend to remain local without much traveling.
  • I often mull over how valuable it is to explore the world in one’s youth rather than staying confined in urban skyscrapers (China being populous, cities are densely packed with high-rises) and raising kids.

• Naturally, many would argue:
  • Single individuals might justify not traveling due to saving up for the future.
  • Married couples might promise themselves future journeys with family.

• Nevertheless, those “future trips” often remain elusive.
  • Peers around me continue to save and care for their children while placing travel far behind.

• My Reflection on Travel & A Key Reminder
  • Therefore, I'm grateful for all the different corners of the globe that I could explore while young and spirited.
  • Though I have not saved much at thirty, I cherish the many memorable landscapes and friendships I encountered on my journey.
  • Hence, the reminder for my buddies:
    • If you dream of distant lands, try to achieve it when young and energetic, unencumbered by heavy domestic responsibilities.
    • Once married and a parent, your travels will inevitably decline due to your growing obligations.
    • In China, it's common for grandparents to help look after their grandkids. Yet, my elders are getting older and aren't keen on babysitting. Consequently, I'm even less inclined to travel away. Therefore, don't frequently rely on "later," as unforeseeable changes could occur.

• Reflecting on my youthful aspirations of visiting Iceland, New Zealand, or even Tibet Ali or Gannu's autonomous prefecture in southern Gansu province, I still yearn for that one day.
• Either you're married or unmarried, financial independence truly matters!
  • Of course, if you possess immense wealth, these considerations could diminish. However, for ordinary Chinese folks like myself, marriage and children often push travel plans to the sidelines.

Alright, my complaints end here. Hope it resonates with avid travelers like you!

Sure, no problem! Let me polish this passage to ensure foreign friends can clearly understand it while also capturing the genuine feelings of your "complaint".

---

Here you go:

• Hey! For those who wish to experience a “budget travel” (a trip with limited funds) in Shanghai, I’ve got some advice for you:

  • Shanghai might not be the best choice if you’re trying to keep your expenses super tight.
  • Just like my situation, I saved too much and ended up feeling no desire to explore. It was really uncomfortable!

• Expense Concerns for Travelers:

  • Food: Even fast food is expensive, leaving quite a dent in the wallet.
  • Transportation: Although the metro system is convenient, the fares are slightly higher than expected. If you plan on moving around a lot, it's important to calculate these costs beforehand.
    • Tip: Consider purchasing a one-day or three-day metro pass for intensive schedules; however, don't expect much savings.

• I ventured down to Lujiazui – that district packed with skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, a major financial center.

  • Goodness! The area is bustling and lined with high-rise buildings and modern architecture.
  • Standing there, I felt like an outsider, akin to a country bumpkin visiting the city for the first time – lost, bewildered.
  • Witnessing luxury cars speeding through the streets was mind-blowing and somewhat shocking.

• To be honest, this sense of grandeur was reminiscent of my visit to Shenzhen’s core district (the city within the city, known as “Guan Nei”), another fast-developing metropolis in southern China.

  • Both cities offer the same sense of 'Wow,' with their ultra-modern atmosphere but could also feel overwhelming.
  • If繁华和活力，那你肯定会爱上这里！但如果你像我一样对预算比较敏感，可能会觉得有点吃力。

To be honest, this experience reminded me a lot of my visit to Shenzhen's core district (formerly known as "Guan Nei," denoting its most developed areas), another rapidly growing metropolis in southern China.

• Both places have this ultra-modern look and feel that can be awe-inspiring yet intimidating at the same time.
• If you appreciate the bustling vibe and dynamism of a big city, you'll adore it! However, if, like me, you are budget-conscious, you might find it quite challenging.

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This translation captures both the content and tone of the original text while ensuring comprehensibility for English-speaking readers.

It's so muggy and stifling today!

Hello! I share my genuine two-day weekend travel experience in Suzhou for anyone who is thinking about visiting there (by the way, I am from Wuhan).

• High-speed Train:
  • The high-speed train (railway) from Wuhan to Suzhou takes around four and a half hours, costing approximately 304 RMB per person. Our round trip cost for two people was 1216 RMB.
• Local Transportation in Suzhou:
  • In the city of Suzhou, we mainly relied on taxi rides, costing us about 300 RMB.
• Accommodation:
  • Honestly, you can't help but notice that hotels in Suzhou on weekends are not cheap at all! We stayed in a homestay which cost us 529 RMB for two nights.
• Food and Beverages:
  • Main Meals:
    • We visited a restaurant named "Xiao Huan Xi" (roughly translated to Little Joy), sampling local Suzhou cuisine, which cost us 279 RMB for the two of us. (A little bit of knowledge: Suzhou cuisine, also called the "Su-style", is one of the famous cuisines in China; it typically has a sweet flavor and is very delicate in preparation.)
    • We also tried Suxin hotpot with a set menu for four, costing 400 RMB.
    • Tasted the famous hairy crab yellow noodle (a noodle dish made with crab meat and crab roe) with a set menu for four costing 243 RMB.
    • Aged with a local snack, Yama Shengjue (a type of crispy bottom small meat bun), which cost us 150 RMB for four people.
  • Relaxation:
    • We also experienced a massage, each costing 107 RMB.
  • Snacks:
    • Various sticky rice snacks (tender point heart pastries), Suzhou style mung bean soup (refreshes you in summertime), Xiyuan temple vegetable noodles (famous among vegetarians), Suzhou style noodles (noodles that usually have a hint of sweetness). Besides all that, we also had “Wutongbobo”, a popular tea blend from the city. These little snacks costed us approximately 300 RMB.
• ️ Sights to Visit:
  • Hutong Hill: One ticket costs 70 RMB. The site isn't very large and one visit including going up and down could be completed within half an hour. (Tip: There's a tilted tower in HuTong which is somewhat similar to the Piazza del Duomo in Italy.)
  • Zhuozheng Garden: Tickets costs 80 RMB. Zhuozheng Garden is impressively enormous! But on our day, the place was really crowded and we were unable to enjoy our visit well due to congestion.( Tip: Suzhou is recognized around the world for its beautiful classical gardens, and Zhuozheng Garden ranks among the most famous ones.)
  • Suzhou Museum: No need to buy tickets for this museum, but you must book online ahead of time(very crucial)! The museum and the garden are located right next to each other and you can plan your days around both of them.
  • Suzhou Cruise Ship: You can find these ships near the Museums or Gardens. I think it is worth it with a price tag of just 40RMB for an interesting 40-minute tour. With additional 5 yuan, you could even hear the singing from the ladies onboard who sing the local folk songs. Quite a water town essence!
• Shopping Streets:
  • We wandered the streets of Guanqian Street, Pingjiang Road, and Shantang Street.
  • Pingjiang Road: Perfect for taking pictures! Here you will find many shops that provide cheongsam changing services along with picture taking. (Tip: Pingiang Street is one of the well-preserved ancient streets which resembles the beauty of the water town.)
  • Guanqian Street: It feels like any typical commercial pedestrian street here selling clothing, memorabilia and local specialties.
  • Shantang Street: The commercial atmosphere is obvious here with lots of snacks. On our visit, the area was extremely crowded with even traffic police directing foot traffic live.
• ️Local Products for Sale:
  • We bought some Suzhou specialty food when we went home. Their pastries were made quite nicely; we had spent about 600 RMB on it along with souvenirs.
  • Suzhou silk is widely known, we bought silken scarves for both of my parents here; and casually bought some “Su Yan” (local brand cigarette).

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Important Takeaway and Suggestions for Foreign Guests:

• ️ Weather and Clothing: We visited in late May, it was already rather hot. If heading during summer, definitely take your sunscreen with you! Sleeping will surely require turning on the air conditioner at night.
• Spending: Honestly speaking, Suzhou is more expensive. Be prepared as the prices of hotels, food, and specialty items may exceed what you usually encounter in China.
• Flavors of the Dishes: The dishes here are mainly sweet. I am from Hubei, where my hometown’s cuisine tends to be salty and spicy, thus I wasn’t that comfortable with the sweetness here. Kindly ask the staff for help in finding dishes that suit you better if this too isn’t your kind of flavor.
• ‍️ Crowd Warning: It can be extremely populated specially at popular attractions especially weekends or Chinese Holidays. Places like Suzhou museum must be reserved earlier than needed, or else, there’s a possibility they might not be able to get in at all!
• ️ Cultural Background: Suzhou is widely known as “the paradise” (along with Hangzhou), famous for its breathtaking classical gardens and silks. A leisurely walk allows you to experience the essence that only Suzhou can offer!

To be fair, your expectations might have been a little off. Shantang Street was historically a commercial street. While Xuanmiao Temple within Guanqian Street is indeed the largest Song Dynasty wooden structure in southern China, the street itself was also a commercial hub that developed around the temple. Pingjiang Road's main thoroughfare has certainly become quite commercialized. If you're looking for a more authentic local atmosphere, you either need to go very early in the morning or venture into the many side alleys that branch off it. Turn into one of those, and you'll instantly find yourself away from the crowds and noise.

Disclaimer: These are my honest feelings, and I'm not trying to deliberately slander anyone. If you're a local who gets easily offended, this place isn't for you, and there's no need to leave your 'valuable' input. I'll say what I want to say, you go read what you enjoy, and we can just stay out of each other's way.

No booking needed, but you'll likely have to wait for a boat if it's crowded.

That's a really apt description. Perhaps some people just haven't reached that level of cultural understanding, so to them, prosperity is all about the glitz and glamour.