Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Coffee shops in China often open later, around 11:00 a.m. So plan your coffee run accordingly. (0:37)
- Tip 2Didi is a convenient and affordable ride-hailing service in China, often cheaper than in larger cities like Beijing. (2:49)
- Tip 3Veggie Arc in Dali is a great place to find delicious and diverse vegetarian options, with a focus on fresh vegetables and organic ingredients. (3:34)
- Tip 4In Yunnan, it's common to use lard, so it's important to communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering food. Using apps like Meituan can help. (9:20)
- Tip 5Lofa greens, a vegetable commonly used in China, can be a surprising and delicious addition to your meals. (10:19)
- Tip 6Mushroom dishes wrapped in leaves are a unique and flavorful experience, common in Yunnan cuisine. (11:33)
Join Alex, the Canadian vegan foodie, on a delightful culinary adventure in Dali, Yunnan! This vibrant city, renowned for its coffee and plant-based cuisine, offers a surprisingly affordable experience for budget travelers. From unique hazelnut coffee creations to an all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet, Alex's journey is filled with delicious discoveries and unexpected delights. Witness the charm of Dali's old town, the convenience of affordable Didi rides, and the joy of savoring authentic Yunnan dishes. Discover how Alex navigates the local food scene, making smart choices to stay within a reasonable budget. This video is a treat for both vegans and food lovers, offering a glimpse into the delicious and affordable side of travel in China.
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This travel vlog follows Vegan In China, Alex, as she explores the beautiful city of Dali in Yunnan Province. Alex aims to document her daily expenses in Dali, starting with a coffee shop visit. She notes that many coffee shops don't open until 11:00 a.m., a common occurrence in China. They start their day with two coffees, an oat milk latte, and an Americano for 73 RMB, noting that coffee tends to be a more expensive item in China. Alex then takes a Didi, a ride-hailing service, to Veggie Arc, a vegetarian space, for lunch. The Didi costs 10 RMB, cheaper than similar rides in Beijing.
At Veggie Arc, Alex enjoys a buffet featuring a wide array of vegetables, tofu, pizza, and a unique sweet dessert pizza. She tries C Gua (bitter melon), a new vegetable, finding it surprisingly balanced. After the buffet, she indulges in vegan milk tea and ice cream. The afternoon brings a change in Dali's atmosphere, with the city waking up after a siesta. Alex marvels at the vibrant evening scene and finds it easy to get lost in the beauty of the streets and the many sights to see.
For dinner, Alex chooses a restaurant, highlighting the importance of being cautious about lard and pork oil in Yunnan cuisine. She orders a vegetable dish with five different types of vegetables, including lofa greens and flowers, and a tofu dish with a bit of a 'chu' (fermented tofu) flavor. She also orders a mushroom dish wrapped in bamboo or banana leaves, noting that the food is an experience in itself. Alex concludes her day by summarizing her expenses: 391.58 RMB for two people, less than 200 RMB per person. She invites viewers to share their opinions on her spending and how much they typically spend while traveling. The vlog showcases the affordability and delicious vegan food options available in Dali, Yunnan, and emphasizes the importance of communication when ordering to ensure vegan-friendly options.