Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1As you go further west in China, you reach regions historically not well controlled by the Empire. These were far-flung regions, passing between Mongols, Tibetans, and Uyghurs, lying along the Silk Road where ideas and religions passed through along with merchandise. Many people in this province are Muslim, most indistinguishable from the rest of the Han. (2:14)
- Tip 2Moon cakes are on sale for a great price. You could subsist on one for a day, so this is a week's worth of food for an incredible price. China is quickly becoming the best value for money in the world. (7:22)
- Tip 3Never go to the section of the Great Wall next to Beijing; it's crowded. This stretch is much emptier because we're in the Gansu desert, the furthest the Great Wall reached. (15:32)
- Tip 4The Great Wall isn't one long wall, but different sections built for different barbarians in different places. This western section shows how far the Han Dynasty reached. (29:20)
- Tip 5Many believe Silk Road travelers journeyed for months or years. Actually, middlemen traded goods at points like Jiayuguan, handing off items to others for transport to Beijing. This continued until Europeans found sea routes and colonized much of the world. (34:03)
Sabbatical's journey to the western end of the Great Wall of China is a captivating tale of unexpected encounters and cultural immersion. From high-speed train rides across the Gansu Province desert to a charming, if slightly pungent, hotel, the video is brimming with unique details. Sabbatical's interactions with locals, including a heartwarming encounter with two Chinese Muslim women, showcase the vibrant tapestry of Chinese culture. The breathtaking scenery of the Great Wall, especially its less-visited westernmost section, is a highlight, as is Sabbatical's humorous commentary and insightful reflections on China.
More about the current video:( 5 / 5 )
This vlog follows Sabbatical's adventure to the westernmost point of the Great Wall of China, located in Gansu Province. The journey begins on a high-speed train, offering a glimpse into the vast, barren landscapes of China's western regions. Sabbatical, accompanied by Mr. Small Brained American, experiences the unique cultural nuances of Gansu, from inexpensive cigarettes to the principles of the Communist Party of China displayed on public signs.
Their exploration of Jiayuguan includes a stay in a quintessential Chinese hotel, followed by a stroll through the town, where they encounter the local charm and discover the significance of moon cakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Sabbatical's commentary provides insights into the historical and geographical context of the Great Wall's westernmost section, highlighting its strategic location along the Silk Road and its role in protecting the empire from nomadic tribes.
The climb to the Great Wall itself is punctuated by humorous interactions with local vendors and a chance encounter with two Chinese Muslim women who become Sabbatical's unexpected tour guides. This encounter provides a poignant moment of cultural exchange, revealing the diversity within Chinese society. Sabbatical's reflections on the Great Wall's historical significance and the vastness of the landscape are interwoven with personal anecdotes and emotional moments, making the journey relatable and engaging.
The video culminates with a visit to a nearby pagoda, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Throughout the vlog, Sabbatical's engaging storytelling, coupled with stunning visuals, creates an immersive experience for the viewer, leaving a lasting impression of the beauty and complexity of China's cultural heritage and the human connections forged along the way.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What's the best part of the Great Wall to visit?
- A: Definitely not the part near Beijing! It's way too crowded. The western end is much better, more peaceful, and you get to see a different side of the wall's history.
- Q: What was it like meeting the two Chinese Muslim women?
- A: It was awesome! They became my tour guides and showed me a side of Chinese culture I wouldn't have experienced otherwise. It was really special.
- Q: What's the most surprising thing you discovered on your trip?
- A: Probably the $1 cigarettes! And how cheap the moon cakes were during the Mid-Autumn Festival. China has amazing value for money.
