Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1When traveling to Xinjiang, booking a hotel near the airport is recommended due to late arrival times. (0:15)
- Tip 2People in Xinjiang are friendly and utilize translation apps for communication, even apologizing for not speaking English. (0:47)
- Tip 3Expect extra security checks for business and first class, which significantly reduce waiting times. (1:08)
- Tip 4Business class flights often include lounge access with complimentary food and drinks. (1:41)
- Tip 5The overall business class experience, including pre-flight services and in-flight amenities, was positive and worth the extra cost for a long flight. (5:29)
- Tip 6Chinese airports are strict about checking luggage; ensure no prohibited items are included. (14:52)
- Tip 7Chinese airports typically offer comfortable chairs and free drinking water at the gates. (15:13)
- Tip 8Many Chinese airports provide massage chairs for a small fee, offering a relaxing experience while waiting. (16:03)
- Tip 9Cash payments are less common in China; using digital payment methods like Alipay is more prevalent. (20:59)
- Tip 10Security checks are standard in all hotels in China. (22:18)
Ken Abroad's Xinjiang adventure begins with a luxurious business class flight, highlighting the unexpected friendliness and helpfulness of airport staff. He then navigates the surprisingly affordable taxi system, experiencing both the warmth of a Hilton hotel and the unique cultural interactions of local people eager to connect with a foreigner. His journey continues with an economy flight, showcasing the differences in travel classes. He concludes his trip in Kashgar, savoring delicious local cuisine and immersing himself in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.
Next travel video: ( 30 / 32 )
More about the current video:( 29 / 32 )
This China vlog follows Ken Abroad's journey to Xinjiang, a region often misrepresented in the media. His trip begins with a surprisingly smooth business class flight on China Southern Airlines, highlighting the efficient check-in and security processes, along with the helpfulness of the staff. He even enjoys lounge access and a delicious in-flight meal. Upon arrival in Urumqi, despite the freezing temperatures, Ken finds the locals incredibly friendly and helpful, even experiencing a unique red-carpet treatment at the airport. His one-night stay at a Hampton by Hilton hotel provides a comfortable respite before his onward journey.
The next leg of his adventure involves an economy flight on the same airline, offering a fascinating comparison to his business class experience. Ken observes the strict security checks at the airport, noting the meticulous attention to detail in ensuring passenger safety. He also highlights the surprisingly comfortable airport chairs and the availability of free drinking water and even massage chairs at the gate. The flight itself, while initially delayed due to weather, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, making it a memorable experience.
Finally, Ken arrives in Kashgar, a city in the far west of China, near the borders of Tajikistan and Pakistan. He notes the city's unique atmosphere, different from other Chinese cities he's visited, and finds the locals equally friendly and helpful. His stay at a Home2 Suites by Hilton provides another example of the value and comfort offered by Chinese hotels. Ken's exploration of Kashgar includes a search for local cuisine, where he encounters exceptional hospitality and ultimately enjoys a delicious meal of meat skewers and naan bread. Throughout his journey, Ken emphasizes the unexpected warmth and helpfulness of the people he encounters, showcasing a side of Xinjiang often overlooked in media portrayals.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was the business class experience like?
- A: It was great! The check-in and security were fast, the lounge was nice, and the in-flight meal was really good. It was worth the extra money for the long flight.
- Q: What's the best way to get around in Xinjiang?
- A: I used Didi, which is like Uber, and it was easy and affordable. But you can also use taxis, just make sure it's an official airport taxi to avoid inflated prices.
- Q: How were the people in Xinjiang?
- A: Everyone was so friendly and helpful! Even though many didn't speak English, they always used translation apps to communicate. They even offered to take pictures with me.
- Q: What was the food like in Kashgar?
- A: The food was amazing! I especially loved the lamb and beef skewers and the naan bread. It was exactly what I was hoping for, very flavorful and delicious.
- Q: What was the most surprising thing about your trip?
- A: Probably the welcome gift from the hotel robot! I wasn't expecting that at all. It was a nice touch.
