Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing, a journey through centuries of history. Marvel at the architecture and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of China's imperial past. (2:11)
- Tip 2Visit the China Science and Technology Museum, especially if traveling with children. The interactive exhibits, particularly the robot displays, will provide a fun and educational experience. (2:28)
- Tip 3Escape the city and immerse yourselves in the beauty of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Hike amidst stunning scenery and witness breathtaking sunsets over tea plantations. (2:41)
- Tip 4Consider taking a traditional sleeper train in China for a unique and authentic travel experience. It offers a chance to interact with locals and observe daily life. (4:49)
- Tip 5When booking train tickets in China, be aware that bunk beds vary in size. Upper bunks are typically smaller, designed primarily for sleeping. (7:12)
- Tip 6Observe how locals bring their own food and prepare meals on the train. This is a common practice and provides insight into Chinese travel culture. (12:36)
- Tip 7If visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, consider staying at Vin Homes, a landmark building with stunning views and convenient amenities. (24:32)
- Tip 8Chongqing offers surprisingly affordable luxury accommodations. You can find well-appointed suites with incredible city views for reasonable prices. (33:29)
Our Travel Journal's latest vlog takes us on a whirlwind adventure through Chongqing, China. They bypassed the warnings and opted for a local train journey from Zhangjiajie, offering a unique glimpse into everyday Chinese life. From bustling train cars to encounters with a local YouTuber and explorations of futuristic cars, their Chongqing experience is filled with unexpected delights and cultural immersion. The vibrant city's skyline, nightlife, and surprisingly affordable luxury leave a lasting impression, making this episode a captivating journey.
More about the current video:
In this episode of their China travel series, Our Travel Journal shares their experience traveling from Zhangjiajie to Chongqing by a local train, defying warnings about its slowness and crowded conditions. This choice allowed them to experience the authentic side of China, far from the typical tourist attractions.
Their journey began with a ride on a traditional sleeper train, where they encountered a mix of locals, enjoyed the sights, and even managed to nap amidst the activity. The train ride itself was a unique experience, filled with the smells of instant noodles and sesame oil, and the sounds of conversations and children playing.
Upon arrival in Chongqing, they were greeted by Andy, a local YouTuber, who warmly welcomed them and showed them around. This unexpected meeting highlighted the friendliness of the Chongqing locals. They explored a shopping mall, showcasing the city's blend of modern and traditional elements, and were amazed by the advanced technology of the electric cars on display.
Their exploration continued to a riverside viewpoint, where they witnessed the breathtaking skyline of Chongqing at night. This moment captured the essence of their journey, showcasing the city's beauty and energy. The family also enjoyed a delicious meal, trying local cuisine and experiencing the city's culinary scene.
Throughout their journey, Our Travel Journal highlights the unexpected discoveries, warm interactions with locals, and the overall charm of Chongqing. The episode is a testament to their commitment to experiencing the authentic side of travel and showcases a different perspective of China than what's often portrayed in typical travel advertisements. Their journey through Chongqing is a reminder that sometimes, the experiences that are most memorable are the ones that take you off the beaten path.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was it like taking a non-high-speed train in China?
- A: It was crowded, but it gave us a really local and authentic experience, unlike the usual tourist experience. It smelled like instant noodles and sesame oil, and it was full of people chatting and playing games.
- Q: What was the most surprising thing that happened in Chongqing?
- A: Probably meeting Andy, the local YouTuber, who picked us up and showed us around. It was so unexpected and made our trip even more special!
- Q: What's your opinion on Chongqing?
- A: I love it! It's more modern than Shanghai, and the people are incredibly friendly. The skyscrapers are amazing, and the night view is breathtaking. I think it's the best city in China!