Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1For an incredible view of Chongqing's cityscape, find a spot that offers a panoramic perspective, especially at night when the city lights transform the skyline into a cyberpunk metropolis. (2:10)
- Tip 2Experience a traditional ear cleaning. While it might seem unusual, it's a cultural practice in Chongqing, offering a unique sensory experience. (6:47)
- Tip 3Explore affordable luxury. Chongqing offers surprisingly cheap five-star hotels, allowing travelers to experience high-end accommodations without breaking the bank. (7:50)
- Tip 4Visit Shaba Stone, a historical area blending Chongqing's past with modern additions, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. (9:44)
- Tip 5Try Chongqing hot pot at a traditional restaurant for an authentic culinary experience. Be prepared for spice! (14:24)
Ben Morris's China adventure begins in Chongqing, a city exceeding expectations. From the breathtaking views and futuristic cityscape to the unique experiences like riding a train through a building and the surprisingly affordable luxury hotels, Ben's journey is filled with unexpected discoveries. A chance encounter with Michael, a local Chongqing resident, adds a heartwarming personal touch, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and friendly people. This video offers a glimpse into a side of China rarely seen, promising an unforgettable travel experience.
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This video follows Ben Morris's exciting first trip to China, specifically to Chongqing, a city he describes as the world's biggest city that nobody's heard of. He highlights the city's surprising affordability, noting how cheap taxis and hotels are compared to London. Ben documents his experiences navigating the language barrier, the intense heat (39°C!), and the unique architectural features of Chongqing.
He visits the iconic LaBa station, where a train runs through a building, a testament to Chongqing's innovative approach to urban planning in the face of limited space. This is a result of the city's rapid growth over the past 30 years, transforming it from a city of 1.2 million to over 17 million residents today. The video showcases the city's impressive skyscrapers built on hilly terrain. Ben's exploration includes a visit to a unique viewpoint on the 22nd floor, offering a stunning perspective of the city's layout.
Food plays a significant role in Ben's journey. He samples Chongqing hot pot, a famously spicy dish, and even tries duck blood, a surprising addition to the menu. Beyond the food, Ben experiences a traditional ear cleaning, a cultural practice described as having a strange, yet intriguing sensation. His hotel stay is luxurious and affordable, which he shares with viewers through his Expedia Travel Shop.
The video's emotional high point comes from Ben's chance encounter with Michael, a local vlogger. Their interaction is heartwarming and genuine, showcasing the friendliness of the Chongqing people and leading to shared experiences like trying traditional hot pot together. The final nighttime cityscape view is described as surreal and reminiscent of a video game, a perfect end to Ben's unforgettable trip. The video concludes with Ben highly recommending Chongqing as a travel destination, emphasizing its unique blend of modern and traditional elements.