Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Visit the unique marriage market in Changdu, where parents post CVs for their children to find partners. It's a fascinating insight into local customs and traditions. (1:57)
- Tip 2Be prepared for a chaotic experience at smaller Chinese train stations, which may differ significantly from larger, more modern stations. (4:10)
- Tip 3When traveling on Chinese sleeper trains, pack light and be prepared for close quarters. Third-class carriages offer a budget-friendly option but may be crowded. (6:43)
- Tip 4Check the availability of the restaurant car on the train, as it may not always be open. Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid disappointment. (14:13)
- Tip 5Be prepared for unexpected delays and transfers when traveling by train in rural areas of China. Allow extra time for your journey. (16:44)
- Tip 6Qingdao offers a beautiful seaside experience. Explore the beach and enjoy the local atmosphere, even if the weather isn't perfect. (21:50)
- Tip 7Qingdao has a rich history as a former German colony, reflected in its architecture and beer culture. Explore the city's German heritage. (23:57)
Backpacker Ben's 28-hour odyssey on China's sleeper train is a captivating tale of unexpected encounters and surprising discoveries. From the chaotic train station to the unique marriage market in Changdu, Ben's journey is filled with humor and cultural insights. His experiences, from sharing a cramped train cabin to exploring the quirky corners of Changdu and the seaside city of Qingdao, offer a raw and authentic glimpse into Chinese life. This isn't your typical tourist experience; it's a wild ride that will leave you wanting more!
More about the current video:( 8 / 8 )
This video documents Backpacker Ben's 28-hour journey aboard a Chinese sleeper train, from Changdu to Qingdao. The journey begins with a visit to a unique marriage market in Changdu, where potential partners' CVs are displayed for prospective matches. This is followed by a chaotic departure from Changdu train station, a stark contrast to the typically large and modern stations Ben is accustomed to.
The train ride itself is described as noisy and cramped, with Ben and Katarina sharing a six-bed compartment with other passengers. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, Ben highlights the affordability of the ticket (£40 for the entire journey), providing a unique perspective on budget travel in China. The journey is punctuated by humorous moments, such as the search for snacks at the station and the challenges of sharing a small space with multiple strangers.
Upon arrival at Lingbao, a smaller, less-modern station, Ben and Katarina experience a significant wait before boarding another train to Qingdao. This leg of the journey involves a short ride on a local didi, showcasing a different aspect of Chinese transportation. The final destination, Qingdao, is depicted as a bustling seaside city. The video concludes with a reflective moment on the beach, enjoying a well-deserved beer, and a surprising revelation about Qingdao's history as a former German colony. The video also includes a sponsored segment featuring a mobile data eSIM service.
Throughout the video, Ben's narration provides humorous anecdotes and personal reflections, highlighting the cultural differences and unexpected experiences encountered during his journey. The video's unique selling point is the authentic portrayal of budget travel in China, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of an unconventional approach to exploration.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: How much did the sleeper train ticket cost?
- A: It cost just £40 for the whole 28-hour journey!
- Q: What was the most memorable part of the trip?
- A: Probably the marriage market in Changdu, it was so unique and unexpected!
- Q: What was the food like on the train?
- A: We mostly had our own snacks, but I saw people eating noodles outside our door.
- Q: What was Qingdao like?
- A: It was a massive seaside city, and even though it was raining, the beach was still packed with people!
- Q: What was the most surprising thing I learned?
- A: That Qingdao used to be a German colony from 1898 to 1914. I never knew that!
