Travel Guides & Tips in this video
Pat & Giulia's Hainan adventure unveils a surprising side of China. Their Haikou vlog explores the city's unexpected blend of modern and ancient, revealing a tropical island paradise largely unknown to Westerners. From exploring the charming Old Town with its unique architecture to discovering delicious local street food, their trip is filled with unexpected delights and heartwarming encounters with locals. This is a China you've never seen before.
Next travel video:
More about the current video:()
The trip
This travel vlog follows Pat & Giulia as they explore Haikou, the capital city of Hainan, China, a tropical island largely unknown to Westerners. Their initial impressions of Haikou are shaped by its surprising size and city-like feel, a contrast to their expectations of an island. They explore the city's CBD, noting the unusual absence of busy nightlife and restaurants as described online. The vlog highlights the beauty of the city's green spaces and palm trees, creating a stunning tropical vibe. Pat & Giulia visit the 5 Ancient Ministers Memorial Temple, finding it in a state of disrepair, a surprising discovery given the typically well-maintained temples in China. They comment on the unique way bikes dominate the roads, making walking a challenge. They encounter a petrol station, a rarity in China's electric car-dominated landscape. Their exploration of Haikou also uncovers abandoned shops, a sight uncommon in other parts of China.
Experiences and details
The vlog features a delightful interaction with locals, including a conversation with young people who speak excellent English. Pat & Giulia sample local street food, describing the unique textures and flavors of various desserts and snacks. They highlight the unusual sweetness of the local jelly and the refreshing nature of a coconut-based dessert. The vlog also captures the lively atmosphere of Haikou's Old Town, with its preserved ancient architecture, a stark contrast to mainland China's architectural styles. They comment on the cleanliness and beauty of the city, contrasting it with the narratives of economic struggles often portrayed in Western media. The vlog concludes with a satisfying vegetarian meal, showcasing the kindness of the restaurant owners. The overall tone of the vlog is one of pleasant surprise and delight in discovering a lesser-known place in China.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What is Haikou’s old town like?
- A: Pat and Giulia describe preserved old architecture that contrasts with other styles they have seen on mainland China.
- Q: What local food do they try?
- A: They sample street food, local sweets, coconut-based dessert and later have a vegetarian meal.
- Q: What is unusual about the roads?
- A: They note the number of bikes and electric vehicles, which makes walking around the city a challenge.
