· Always Away
How much does it cost to travel CHINA?
Always Away visits Nanxun water town and nearby tea-plantation scenery, sharing prices for a canal boat, local strawberries, coffee and plantation entry.
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Blondie In China
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31 min2026-03How much does it cost to travel CHINA?How Much Does It Cost to Travel in China? Budget Tips for 上海Base yourself in a canal-side boutique hotel for authentic Nanxun ambiance and easy access to water town lanes.Opt for a private canal boat to experience Nanxun from the water; it’s affordable and highly scenic, with clear payment options via Alipay or WeChat.Spring, Chengdu / Sichuan
22 min2026-03This is My House in Shanghai, CHINAShanghai House Tour and Apartment Tour in China Living theExchoose a home with character and community feel; balance modern convenience with older architecture to create a homely vibeinvest in a robust storage system and reachable shelves to maximize small spaces in furnished rentalsSpring, Chengdu / Sichuan
11 min2026-02Chinese New Year Emergency Finding a Vet in CHINAChinese New Year in Shanghai Emergency Vet Search for a PetPlan ahead for holidays by having a local vet in mind and know holiday hours; expect limited availability during Chinese New Year.Use ride-hailing apps with pet accommodation options; confirm bag compatibility and pet policy before booking.Winter, Shanghai
17 min2026-02I Visited Beijing for the FIRST TimeBeijing travel: Mutianyu Great Wall by cable car, toboggan,Arrive at Mutianyu with a plan, dress warmly, and bring gloves. Always Away rides the cable car up and toboggan down, and suggests being aware of crowds while nA watchtower visit can involve steep, uneven stairs. Keep your balance and take time on the steps; Always Away also recommends bringing a camera and being consiWinter, BeijingWuhan / Hubei
26 min2026-01Surviving CHINA’S Coldest City | Harbin (Part 2)Harbin in December: Sun Island and Ice and Snow World Cold-ТThe metro is a modern, affordable way to make short trips between Harbin sights. Always Away use it as they move around during their winter visit.Wear gloves, a coat, and boots before going outdoors in Harbin’s cold. The travelers find winter gear affordable and rely on it during their December visit.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
15 min2026-01They told us to AVOID this city in CHINA (We Ignored Them)Harbin Winter Travel: Ice Festival & Quirky Delights Despite ColdIn very cold weather, plan indoor stops and warming breaks between outdoor sights. Always Away visited food stops and shops while exploring Harbin in around -25Harbin’s Russian-influenced architecture is part of the city experience. The travelers explored buildings and tried European-style dishes alongside local winterWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
24 min2025-06Guangzhou Girl Shows Us Another Side of ChinaGuangzhou: Cantonese Opera & Cultural ExplorationLee says students in China start learning English from primary school. The couple also took a one-week Chinese class and found it good but difficult, so learninThe couple say cities in China feel very quiet compared with places such as Bangkok. A noise meter on their walk reads 48.5 dB and later 47 dB, so expect calmerSummer, Guangzhou / Guangdong
15 min2025-05The Adventurous Side of China That Nobody Talks About!Shenzhen Water Sports: Jet Skiing & Parasailing AdventureWet sand can be slippery, so consider removing sandals when walking on the beach. The couple walked toward the parasailing area along the shore.Wear a life jacket during water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing. Kiersten and Tyler put theirs on before the activities.Spring, Hong Kong
28 min2025-055 Star Meal Inside a 600-Year-old Chinese Military FortressDapeng Fortress: Hakka Cuisine in Shenzhen, ChinaThe restaurant serves a bowl of hot water or tea for rinsing dishes before the meal. Kiersten and Tyler show how diners unwrap and clean the plates at the tableThe travelers watch the kitchen and food preparation during their visit. The view gives them a chance to see how the dishes are made.Spring, Shenzhen / Guangdong
17 min2025-05We Ate at The World's CHEAPEST Michelin Starred RestaurantHong Kong's Tim Ho Wan: A Michelin-Starred Culinary JourneyTim Ho Wan once held a Michelin star and offers dim sum at a price Kiersten and Tyler describe as affordable. Although the restaurant has lost a star, they say The restaurant can feel noisy and active, with a lively and somewhat chaotic atmosphere. Kiersten and Tyler describe the staff as friendly and efficient, and saSpring, Hong Kong
11 min2025-01Aussies Face a CULTURE SHOCK in CHINA (First 24hrs in Shanghai)Shanghai Adventure: Aussies' First 24 HoursExplore Joa Chang Road, a street filled with vendors and traditional Chinese buildings. It offers a glimpse into local life and commerce, with a blend of old anSample the diverse street food offerings in Shanghai. The Backpackers Passport recommends trying the beef, pork, and shrimp combination with dipping sauce. Be aWinter, Shanghai
35 min2024-10This is Why We Love ChinaHangzhou Exploration: Unveiling China's Surprising CityA local guide can show you parts of Hangzhou you might miss on your own and share local context. Two Mad Explorers used a guide while visiting West Lake and theTake time to notice Hangzhou’s architecture and historic details. The visit includes West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, Chinsu Temple, and the Six Harmonies Pagoda, eacAutumn, Hangzhou / Zhejiang
25 min2024-07DALI is the Place To Be in ChinaDali, Yunnan: Exploring Ancient Charm & Erhai LakeTie-dye in Dali takes more steps than it may first appear, but Alan and Shannon find the process rewarding. A local artisan teaches them the technique, and theyTry crossing-the-bridge noodles, a Yunnan dish that combines a flavorful broth with tender meat and fresh vegetables. Alan and Shannon describe the meal as a muSummer, Kunming / Yunnan
29 min2024-07Eating EVERYTHING at Yunnan's Best Night MarketKunming Night Market: A Yunnan Street Food AdventureVisit the Kunming street-food market and leave enough time to taste several dishes. Alan and Shannon recommend exploring the stalls rather than choosing just onBe open to tasting unfamiliar food, even when you do not know its name. Alan and Shannon try a colorful stew, skewers, noodles and other market dishes.Summer, Kunming / Yunnan
13 min2024-06First 24 HOURS in Shenzhen Everything was a LIE!Shenzhen Exploration: Unveiling China's Tech HubDownload Oliver's free 50 travel tips document for your next trip, including tips on booking cheap flights, travel insurance, and more. The document also includOliver's travel tips document also includes access to all of his Google Maps pins, showing you the best places to visit in many countries.Summer, Shenzhen / Guangdong
28 min2024-06$60 Cantonese Food Tour in Guangzhou 5 Hours of EatingGuangzhou Culinary Tour: Exploring Canton's Hidden Food GemsThe chicken and coconut soup is boiled inside the coconut for about four hours. A hole is made in the coconut, the ingredients go inside, the opening is sealed The restaurant sterilizes chopsticks with tea before serving them, a traditional practice that Alan and Shannon notice during the tour.Summer, Guangzhou / Guangdong
12 min2022-06What’s for sale in one of the world’s highest cities? Life at 4000 meters 赶大集了！在海拔4000米的世界高城理塘能买到啥？Litang, Sichuan: High-Altitude Market ShoppingLitang is a Tibetan city in Western Sichuan at an altitude of about 4,000 meters, making it one of the world's highest cities. Its markets offer a range of goodLitang's market combines roadside stalls with established shops. Explore both types of sellers to see the different goods and get a fuller sense of how local coSummer, Litang / Sichuan
11 min2022-06Bustling Tibetan city located at 4000m elevation!! 一起探索无穷草原中的繁荣藏族城市：理塘！Litang: Exploring a Tibetan City at 4000mObserve how yaks are integrated into daily life, even coexisting with modern city elements. Their presence is a unique feature of Litang's urban landscape, unliExplore the blend of modern amenities and traditional architecture. Litang offers a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, making for a rich cultural experieSummer, Lhasa / Tibet
6 min2022-04Dinner with Tibetan monks in SHANGRI-LA 蹭饭新高度 我竟然蹭到了香格里拉藏族寺庙里！Tibetan Monk Dinner: Exploring Diqing's CultureApproach sacred places respectfully and follow local customs. Katherine’s temple visit includes a dinner invitation and time with monks.Mountain weather can change during a visit. Katherine’s setting shifts from winter conditions to spring scenery, so adaptable layers are useful.Spring, Lhasa / Tibet
13 min2022-04Returning to this Chinese village 5 years later: what’s changed? 回到我五年前做执教的村，有什么变化么？Yunnan Village Revisited: A 5-Year JourneyObserve the changes in infrastructure, such as new roads and buildings, to understand the village's development over time. Pay attention to the details, noting Embrace local customs and traditions. Be respectful of local traditions and customs, and try to communicate and interact with the locals, even if there are langSpring, Lijiang / Yunnan
11 min2022-04DALI off the beaten path: exploring the land of China’s Bai people 大理周边的农村怎么样？探索白族的家乡！Dali's Hidden Villages: Exploring Bai Culture in YunnanDriving along Erhai Lake offers wide views of the water and sky. Katherine’s route notes that the lakeside is also used as a setting for wedding photographs.Explore villages along Erhai Lake to see older and newer buildings together. Katherine’s walk offers a view of local culture through the homes, markets and peopSpring, Lijiang / Yunnan
19 min2022-04Venturing into the unknown in SOUTHWEST CHINA 钻进白裤瑶族的地盘，找到宝贝了！！Exploring Guangxi's White Pants Yao: A Cultural JourneyVisit local markets to find handicrafts, traditional medicine, and produce. Talk with vendors about their products and daily lives to learn more about the commuExplore nearby villages to see daily life among the White Pants Yao. Observe the homes, meet residents, and learn about the traditions of the community.Spring, Guangxi
14 min2022-03Life in China’s mysterious mountain province, GUIZHOU 我在贵州的少数民族小县城，这里的生活怎么样？Libo, Guizhou: Exploring China's Mountainous CharmVisit local markets to see regional specialties and talk with vendors. Katherine finds food and friendly interactions at the Libo market.If locals invite you to join a meal, be open to accepting when it feels appropriate. Katherine’s lunch with a family gives her a chance to learn about local fooSpring, Xingyi / Guizhou
9 min2022-03CHINA’S MOST PHOTOGENIC TOWN: what’s it really like? 跟社交媒体上刷到的美照比，阳朔到底怎么样？Yangshuo, China: Exploring the Photogenic TownVenture beyond commercialized areas and into the surrounding countryside to see more of everyday Yangshuo. Katherine rides her folding bike beyond the main tourSet aside a day or two to see Yangshuo beyond the most photographed sites. You can rent a bike or scooter, or walk through side streets and interact with local Spring, Guilin / Guangxi
7 min2022-02What’s it like to be the only foreigner in a tiny Chinese city? 做全城唯一的外国人是一种什么体验？Wuzhishan Solo Trip: Exploring a Quaint Chinese CityA smaller place such as Wuan can offer a quieter cultural experience than a large Chinese city. It allows more time to learn about local life and connect personSocial media can help visitors meet people in smaller towns. Katherine uses Facebook and similar platforms to find communities and individuals, which leads to aWinter, Wuzhishan / Hainan
12 min2022-02ISLAND LIFE: South China off the beaten path 海南农村人真热情！Hainan Island Cycling: Off-the-beaten-path VillagesExplore the unique music scene in rural Hainan villages. Listen to the sounds of the countryside and notice the local music scene. Do not be afraid to strike upBe prepared for varied road conditions when cycling in rural areas. Some roads may be well-maintained, while others could be challenging. Consider carrying repaWinter, Haikou / Hainan
12 min2022-01LIFE OUTSIDE THE TOURIST AREAS: Exploring rural Hainan 旅游区以外的海南：老百姓的生活怎么样！Rural Hainan: Cycling Beyond Tourist BeachesExplore rural markets for fruits, vegetables and other everyday goods. Talk with vendors and observe what people buy to learn about local routines. Local marketThe source describes Torpin as a government initiative focused on poverty alleviation through infrastructure and education, offering context on rural developmenWinter, Sanya / Hainan
15 min2022-01MOUNTAIN VILLAGE TOUR with one of my subscribers 粉丝带我骑浙江山村！Zhejiang Cycling Tour: Tiantai's Autumn VillagesVisit Guqing Temple, a historic temple in the mountains of Tiantai County, known for its self-sufficient monks and beautiful architecture. Explore its centuriesExplore the traditional craft workshops in Tiantai County, where artisans create steaming trays using bamboo and wood. Witness the time-honored techniques and aWinter, Taizhou / Zhejiang
12 min2022-01EXPLORING COASTAL CHINA 茂名是不是南方最热情的城市Coastal Guangdong Bike Tour: Kaiping to MaomingEven on long and sometimes boring roads, a dedicated bike lane can make cycling safer and more comfortable. Plan your route in advance and choose roads with desExplore local eateries and regional snacks along the route. Trying dishes you have not had before can reveal distinctive flavors and give you a better understanWinter, MaomingKaiping / Guangdong
12 min2022-01My Mandarin is better than the locals… 我终于彻底体会到了在中国做外国人China Solo Bike Tour: A Hilarious Cultural AdventureAlways check the map carefully before embarking on a cycling route, especially in unfamiliar areas. Dirt roads can significantly slow your progress and may not Embrace the unexpected changes in terrain and road conditions. Sometimes, the most scenic routes take you through less-than-ideal conditions, but the rewards arWinter, Yong'anYiNingde / Guangdong
13 min2022-01EXPLORING TRADITIONAL SOUTH CHINESE VILLAGES 探索广东的传统农村Guangdong Cycling Tour: Exploring Traditional VillagesTry Guangdong specialty 'jiaozi', a type of dumpling with various fillings, for a delicious local breakfast experience. It's a great way to start your day and eExplore the unique architectural style of Guangdong's traditional villages, many of which feature ponds in front of homes for feng shui purposes. Observe the blWinter, Yangjiang / Guangdong
10 min2021-12People in Guangdong drink THIS?? 广东人竟然喝这个？？Guangdong Bike Adventure: Culture, Cuisine & LandscapesExplore the unique diaolou fortresses in Kaiping, Guangdong. These fortified structures offer a glimpse into the region's history and architectural style, showcWitness the impact of rural-urban migration in Guangdong's countryside. Observe the abandoned structures and quiet atmosphere, reflecting the shift in populatioWinter, Guangdong
11 min2021-11CHINA OFF THE BEATEN PATH 探索美丽中国Chengdu Cycling Adventure: Exploring Sichuan's CountrysideThe fall harvest is in full force in rural Chengdu, offering a unique visual spectacle of drying crops everywhere. Observe how locals utilize every available spExplore the unexpected sights and sounds of a rural noodle factory. Witness the traditional process of drying noodles under the sun, a picturesque scene that spAutumn, Chengdu / Sichuan
16 min2021-11ENCOUNTERS WITH INTERESTING STRANGERS 成都骑到雅安，四川的大爷大妈太好玩了！Chengdu to Ya'an Bike Trip: Sichuan's Rural CharmKatherine recommends brushing your teeth after every meal, or at least rinsing your mouth, to help prevent tooth decay and maintain a good first impression. ShePay attention to the surroundings during a bike ride. Katherine spots a praying mantis on the pavement and suggests taking time to enjoy small details along theAutumn, Chengdu / Sichuan
15 min2021-10Exploring an “18TH TIER CITY” in SOUTHWEST CHINA 云南“十八线”城市里的生活Weixin City Exploration: Unveiling Southwest China's Hidden GemEven amid construction, traditional stone houses offer a glimpse into Weixin's past. Notice their architecture and how it contrasts with nearby modern buildingsBasket backpacks and wicker baby strollers are popular local accessories in Katherine's market walk. Notice their designs and local craftsmanship.Autumn, Weixin / Yunnan
7 min2021-10The mountains of Sichuan are a whole other world 四川的山区，到处都是好东西Sichuan's Jiuzhaigou: Blue Pools & Tibetan CultureReaching remote places such as Jiuzhaigou can mean a long, winding drive on challenging mountain roads. Be comfortable with mountain driving or consider a guideStay open to cultural discoveries along the way. In Aba, Katherine encountered mosques in buildings she had initially mistaken for Buddhist temples, an unexpectAutumn, Lhasa / Tibet
11 min2021-10Life in one of China's most scenic Tibetan villages 藏区的生活到底是什么样的?Zhagana: Exploring a Tibetan Village in Gansu, ChinaMany herding families are leaving behind their traditional lifestyle and are now running Airbnbs for tourists and selling products from the grasslands all year Deo, a city in western China, is surprisingly clean and modern, retaining aspects of various ethnic minority cultures. It shows that modernization doesn't necesAutumn, Lhasa / Tibet
8 min2021-09The BEST way to explore new places 探索新地方的最好的方式Jiagedaqi Exploration: A Northeastern China AdventureJiagedaqi's street markets sell forest products such as hazelnuts, blueberry juice and mushrooms. These goods reflect the city's connection with the surroundingKatherine notices Russian and Chinese architectural styles in Jiagedaqi. Taking time to look at the buildings helps show the cultural influences present in the Autumn, Jiagedaqi / Heilongjiang
8 min2021-08EXPLORING AN ANCIENT TOWN IN SICHUAN, CHINA 元通古镇Ancient Yuantong Town: Exploring Sichuan's Hidden GemVisit the numerous Ma Jiang and tea parlors in Yanong for a taste of local life and a chance to chat with friendly owners. Many establishments are housed in hisObserve the impact of tourism on small towns. Yanong demonstrates how careful planning can preserve a town's unique character while bringing economic benefits. Summer, Yuantong / Sichuan
5 min2021-08MAHJONG AND ALCOHOL IN THE AFTERLIFE? Biking in Chongzhou 原来四川人还烧这些东西给祖先？？Chongzhou Cycling: Exploring Sichuan's Rural CharmExplore the unique Bonsai Village in Chongzhou, home to numerous bonsai trees and passionate enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to see the incredible variety anVisit a local retiree's garden, showcasing decades of bonsai cultivation. Observe the dedication and skill required to maintain these beautiful living artworks.Summer, Chengdu / Sichuan
13 min2021-08ULTIMATE CHENGDU BIKE TOUR from the countryside to the city center 成都骑行：从乡村到市中心Chengdu Cycling Tour: Sichuan Countryside to CityFarming communities can have crops planted beside homes and roads. Katherine notices how agriculture remains part of daily village life on her route.Chili peppers appear across Chengdu, including in parks. Be specific about spice preferences when ordering, since “no spicy” may need clarification.Summer, Chengdu / Sichuan
10 min2021-07EXPLORING NANJING’S URBAN LAKE 南京城中的湖Nanjing's Xuanwu Lake: Urban Oasis AdventureXuanwu Lake park is a place where many older residents stay active and socialize. A walk through the park offers a chance to observe this everyday community lifKFC and McDonald's are popular in China, including small versions and branches with distinctive themes. Katherine points out examples during her walk around theSummer, Nanjing / Jiangsu
13 min2021-07GETTING MY EARS PICKED and other shenanigans in YANGZHOU 在扬州采耳！Yangzhou Exploration: Gardens, Breakfast & Old City CharmThe Yangzhou visit begins with breakfast served on a lake, featuring a range of local dishes with different flavors and textures. Katherine encourages trying thA rickshaw ride takes Katherine through Yangzhou's preserved historic streets and traditional architecture. The ride turns into a friendly race with another ricSummer, Yangzhou / Jiangsu
9 min2021-06WE FOUND CHINESE MOUNTAIN PAINTINGS IN REAL LIFE 现实生活中的山水画！Huangshan Hiking: Discovering China's Mountain Painting InspirationMount Huangshan has many stairs, so wear comfortable shoes and expect sore legs after the climb. Katherine finds the views worth the physical effort.Tour groups are common on Mount Huangshan. Some guides share useful history and geological information, while others say less, so choose a guide who can explainSummer, Huangshan / Anhui
5 min2021-05BIKE WITH ME Exploring South NanjingCycling Adventure in Southern Nanjing: Exploring Countryside CharmsExplore the countryside surrounding major Chinese cities by bike. You'll discover lesser-known places and local life beyond the city limits. This is a great wayVisit roadside shrines in rural China. These often-overlooked sites offer a glimpse into local beliefs and traditions. Take your time to appreciate the unique dSpring, Nanjing / Jiangsu
7 min2021-05NEIGHBORHOOD TOUR! Nanjing, ChinaNanjing Neighborhood Exploration: Gardens, Tech & Daily LifeExplore the shared gardens and green spaces often found in Chinese apartment complexes. They offer a place to experience some nature within the city.Notice how people and animals interact in local communities. Katherine describes residents feeding stray animals, which creates an ongoing scene in the shared gSpring, Nanjing / Jiangsu
9 min2021-04TIPS FOR SELF-TEACHING A FOREIGN LANGUAGEMandarin Self-Study: Tips and Tricks for FluencyPractice Mandarin by talking with native speakers and finding regular chances to use the language. Katherine says even talking to yourself can help maintain conPrioritize listening comprehension, since it helps learners follow the natural flow and nuances of Mandarin. Children’s shows and podcasts can provide steady liSpring, Nanjing / Jiangsu
7 min2021-04EXPLORING THE FRONTIERS OF NANJINGNanjing Cycling: Exploring Luhe's CountrysideExplore countryside near major Chinese cities by bike. Nearby fields, reservoirs and traditional buildings offer a different view from the urban center, with plTomb Sweeping Day is an important holiday in China, when families visit ancestors' graves with offerings, flowers and paper money. Expect holiday markets and ceSpring, Nanjing / Jiangsu
8 min2021-03A DAY IN MY LIFE: American grad student in Nanjing, ChinaNanjing University: A Day in the Life of an American Grad StudentUtilize Nanjing's efficient public bike system for convenient and affordable transportation. It's a great way to explore the city and get around quickly, especiEmbrace the opportunity to live in a university dorm; it's a common practice in China and provides a unique cultural immersion experience, unlike the typical inSpring, Nanjing / Jiangsu
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