Hainan's Haikou Old Town: A Tropical Escape in China

The Chinese island you’ve NEVER heard of…. 🇨🇳 | Hainan, China Vlog 2024

Destination:ChinaProvince:HainanCity:Haikou
The Chinese island you’ve NEVER heard of…. 🇨🇳 | Hainan, China Vlog 2024
Pat & Giulia2024-10-3125 min

Our first experience of China's tropical Island.... Did you know China has tropical islands? We are in its HUGE island of Hainan. We are in the capital Haikou, exploring the old town/quarter of Haikou and experiencing some local streetfood in China for our travel. Many Westerners have never heard of this tropical island, but we are here today to spend some exploring the beauty of its old town. There is very little information online in English so we thought we should come share some of the untapped beauty that China has to offer.

--- Pat & Giulia
October 31, 2024, Autumn in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Arrival in Haikou
  2. 0:26Introduction to Hainan
  3. 2:21First impressions of Haikou
  4. 5:25Visit to the Temple
  5. 12:20Exploring Old Street
  6. 13:55Trying local desserts
  7. 20:35Haikou sunset
  8. 23:06Vegetarian meal

Pat & Giulia explore Hainan's Haikou, discovering a hidden tropical gem in China. Charming Old Town, delicious street food, and unexpected cultural encounters create an unforgettable adventure.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Be aware of the abundance of bikes weaving through traffic, especially when walking. (7:06)
  2. Tip 2Traffic light behavior differs; even with a green light, exercise caution. (9:46)
  3. Tip 3Support local vendors; Pat & Giulia bought fruit from a struggling elderly woman. (20:07)
  4. Tip 4Finding vegetarian food may require more effort; not all restaurants offer many options. (23:13)
  5. Tip 5In some vegetarian restaurants, you may need to bring your own plate and put it away after your meal. (24:55)

Pat & Giulia's Hainan adventure unveils a surprising side of China. Their Haikou vlog explores the city's unexpected blend of modern and ancient, revealing a tropical island paradise largely unknown to Westerners. From exploring the charming Old Town with its unique architecture to discovering delicious local street food, their journey is filled with unexpected delights and heartwarming encounters with locals. This is a China you've never seen before!

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The Chinese island you’ve NEVER heard of…. 🇨🇳 | Hainan, China Vlog 2024

This travel vlog follows Pat & Giulia as they explore Haikou, the capital city of Hainan, China, a tropical island largely unknown to Westerners. Their initial impressions of Haikou are shaped by its surprising size and city-like feel, a contrast to their expectations of an island. They explore the city's CBD, noting the unusual absence of bustling nightlife and restaurants as described online. The vlog highlights the beauty of the city's green spaces and palm trees, creating a stunning tropical vibe.

Pat & Giulia visit the 5 Ancient Ministers Memorial Temple, finding it in a state of disrepair, a surprising discovery given the typically well-maintained temples in China. They comment on the unique way bikes dominate the roads, making walking a challenge. They encounter a petrol station, a rarity in China's electric car-dominated landscape. Their exploration of Haikou also uncovers abandoned shops, a sight uncommon in other parts of China.

The vlog features a delightful interaction with locals, including a conversation with young people who speak excellent English. Pat & Giulia sample local street food, describing the unique textures and flavors of various desserts and snacks. They highlight the unusual sweetness of the local jelly and the refreshing nature of a coconut-based dessert. The vlog also captures the vibrant atmosphere of Haikou's Old Town, with its preserved ancient architecture, a stark contrast to mainland China's architectural styles. They comment on the cleanliness and beauty of the city, contrasting it with the narratives of economic struggles often portrayed in Western media. The vlog concludes with a satisfying vegetarian meal, showcasing the kindness of the restaurant owners. The overall tone of the vlog is one of pleasant surprise and delight in discovering a hidden gem in China.

Hainan's Haikou Old Town: A Tropical Escape in China

Hainan's Haikou old town: Delicious street food and unexpected beauty. A tropical escape in China!

Hainan's Haikou: Exploring China's Hidden Tropical Island

Discover Hainan, China's hidden tropical gem! Pat & Giulia, a couple exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, share their captivating journey through Haikou's enchanting old town. Experience the vibrant street food scene and uncover the untapped beauty of this lesser-known Chinese island, a true paradise waiting to be explored. Let their adventure inspire your next travel escapade!

Attractions in this video: 5 Ancient Ministers Memorial Temple, Haikou Old Town