Beautiful JingXi 靖西, GuangXi province

Rough-cut version - a polished version will appear here some day ... Bonus films - 'One day in BeiJing', 'a 17 hours cycle ride around DongCheng, central BeiJing' and BeiJing's unicycle acrobatic stars on French TV; wow - awesome ... Love - is the only way ...

Hot pot dining is a communal and interactive meal enjoyed by many in China and beyond. A hot pot meal consists of a simmering broth into which fresh ingredients are cooked, then dipped into a sauce before eating, bit by bit. Meats are thinly sliced and can cook in just 20 seconds (be sure to cook only one slice at a time). One can have tomatoes or cucumber as a side dish to eat raw. Typically, the dipping sauce is sesame sprinkled with chopped spring onions though one add add various condiments such as chopped garlic. Spicy (Hot) Broth (麻辣汤 - Má là tāng): This broth is typically made with a combination of chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and various spices. It's known for its fiery and numbing flavor, characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. It adds a spicy kick to the ingredients cooked in the hot pot, offering a tingling sensation on the palate. Non-Spicy (Not Hot) Broth (清汤 - Qīng tāng): This broth is a milder option compared to the spicy broth. It's often made with a clear or lightly flavored base, such as chicken, pork, or vegetable broth. It allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through without the overpowering heat of spices. It's a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle and refreshing taste. Two-in-One (Yuan Yang) Broth (鸳鸯锅 - Yuān yāng guō): The two-in-one broth offers the best of both worlds by dividing the hot pot into two sections, allowing diners to enjoy both spicy and non-spicy options simultaneously. One side typically contains the spicy broth, while the other side contains the non-spicy broth. It caters to groups with varying preferences, providing a versatile dining experience where everyone can find something they enjoy. Meat: * Beef: Niú Ròu (牛肉) * Lamb: Yáng Ròu (羊肉) * Chicken: Jī Ròu (鸡肉) Pork: Zhū Ròu (猪肉) Sausages: Xiāng Cháng (香肠) * Fish / Shrimp/Prawn Balls: Yú Qiú / Xiā Qiú (鱼球 / 虾球) Seafood: - Shrimp: Xiā (虾) - Fish: Yú (鱼) - Shellfish: Háimǔ (海蜇) - Mussels: Gēn Mǔli (蚌肉) - Squid: Yóu Yú (鱿鱼) Vegetables: * Coriander: Xīng Cài (香菜) Potato slices: TǔDòu (土豆) Tomatoes: Fān Qié (番茄) Cucumber: HuángGuā (黄瓜) Bean Sprouts: Dà Suàn (大蒜) Lotus Root: Lián'ǒu (莲藕) Bamboo Shoots: Zhú Sǔn (竹笋) Cabbage: Xīng Cài (白菜) Spinach: Bō Cài (菠菜) Mushrooms: - * Enoki Mushroom (long thin white): Jīn Zhēngū (金针菇) - * Shiitake Mushroom: Xiāng Gū (香菇) - Oyster Mushroom: Mù Ěr (木耳) - Wood Ear Mushroom: Xīng'ěr (杏鲍菇) - King Oyster Mushroom: Xìng Bàogū (杏鲍菇) Tofu: * Iced Tofu: Dòng Dòufu (冻豆腐) * Tofu Skin: Dòu Pí (豆皮) Firm Tofu: Làn Dòufu (蓝豆腐) Silken Tofu: Dòufu Rǔ (豆腐乳) Bean Curd Sheets: Dòu Piàn (豆片) Noodles: * Clear (bean) Noodles: Tāng Fěn (汤粉) Rice Noodles: Mǐ Fěn (米粉) Udon Noodles: Wǔdūn Miàn (乌冬面) Other Ingredients: * Dumplings: JiǎoZi (饺子) Eggs: Jī Dàn (鸡蛋) Fried Dough Sticks: Yóu Tiáo (油条) Sauce Bowl: * Sesame Sauce: Zhī Málà Jiàng (芝麻麻辣酱) Peanut Sauce: Huā Shēng Jiàng (花生酱) Condiments one can add to sauce bowl: * Scallions (chopped spring onions): Cōng Jiàng Yóu (葱酱油) Soy Sauce: Jiàng Yóu (酱油) Vinegar: Cù (醋) Chili Sauce: Làjiāo Jiàng (辣椒酱) Garlic Sauce: Sào Jiàng (臊酱) Sesame Oil: Zhī Yóu (芝麻油) Well known hot pot chains include XiaoBu XiaoBu and HaiDiLao but one can also enjoy many one-off independent restaurants.

First, a beautiful time-lapse film by KevinWK. Don't miss it ... Plus, A trip to LiJiang (and Shangrila), YunNan ...

NingXia province lies in northern China. With CGTN Travelogue ...

Welcome to Hong Kong! Explore the vibrant city of Hong Kong, where East meets West in a dazzling fusion of culture, cuisine, and modernity. From towering skyscrapers to tranquil islands, Hong Kong offers a captivating experience. About Hong Kong Hong Kong is a dynamic city known for its stunning skyline, bustling street markets, and picturesque harbor. As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong has its own unique blend of Chinese and Western influences. Key features of Hong Kong include its vibrant nightlife, world-class dining scene, and diverse shopping options. Top Attractions Victoria Peak: Ride the Peak Tram for panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline. Star Ferry: Take a scenic ride across Victoria Harbour between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Ngong Ping 360: Visit Lantau Island and see the Tian Tan Buddha statue. Temple Street Night Market: Explore this lively market for street food, souvenirs, and bargain shopping. Victoria Harbour Light Show: Watch the Symphony of Lights show illuminating Hong Kong's skyscrapers. Ocean Park: Enjoy thrilling rides and see marine life at this popular amusement park. Stanley Market: Visit this waterfront market for arts, crafts, and seaside dining. Wong Tai Sin Temple: Experience traditional Chinese architecture and visit a popular Taoist temple. Hong Kong Disneyland: Discover magical attractions and meet Disney characters. Culture and History Hong Kong's culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Chinese Festivals: Experience traditional festivals like Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival. Colonial Heritage: Explore historic sites such as the Former British Consulate and Western District Public Cargo Working Area. Lamma Island: Escape to this laid-back island with hiking trails and seafood restaurants. Hong Kong Heritage Museum: Learn about the city's history, art, and culture through exhibitions. Dining in Hong Kong Hong Kong is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights. Dim Sum: Enjoy traditional Cantonese dumplings and tea at famous dim sum restaurants. Street Food: Try local favorites like egg waffles, fish balls, and roast meat on rice. Seafood: Feast on fresh seafood at fishing villages like Sai Kung or Lei Yue Mun. Michelin-Starred Dining: Indulge in gourmet cuisine at acclaimed restaurants around the city. Shopping in Hong Kong Explore Hong Kong's diverse shopping scene, from luxury boutiques to bustling street markets. Causeway Bay: Shop for international brands and designer labels in this vibrant shopping district. Mong Kok: Browse through markets like Ladies' Market and Sneakers Street for trendy fashion and accessories. Central District: Discover upscale shopping malls and department stores in Hong Kong's financial hub. Stanley Village: Find unique gifts, home decor, and clothing at this waterfront market. Getting Around Hong Kong Explore Hong Kong's efficient transportation network to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. MTR (Mass Transit Railway): Use the extensive subway system to reach major attractions and districts. Star Ferry: Take a scenic ferry ride across Victoria Harbour between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Trams: Ride the iconic double-decker trams for a leisurely tour of Hong Kong Island. Buses and Minibuses: Use public buses or minibus services for convenient transportation. Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Hail taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Uber for quick trips. Where to Stay in Hong Kong Choose from a variety of accommodations in Hong Kong, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Luxury Hotels: Experience world-class hospitality at luxury hotels in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, or Causeway Bay. Boutique Hotels: Stay in stylish boutique hotels offering personalized services and unique designs. Hostels and Guesthouses: Budget-friendly options with shared facilities, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers. Serviced Apartments: Rent furnished apartments for extended stays and added convenience. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Visit in autumn (October to December) for pleasant weather and clear skies. Language: English and Cantonese are widely spoken; use basic phrases for communication. Currency: Use Hong Kong Dollars (HKD); major credit cards accepted in most establishments. Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions; queue patiently and avoid loud behavior in public. Safety: Hong Kong is generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas and watch for traffic. Internet Access: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi available in public areas and cafes. Enjoy Your Trip to Hong Kong! Get ready for an unforgettable journey in Hong Kong, where every corner reveals something new and exciting. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks or savoring delicious street food, Hong Kong promises an enriching travel experience.

In their last days as students at the Beijing University of Language and Culture, trips to the Summer Palace (YíHéYuán) and the ruins of, but still beautiful, 'Old Summer Palace' (YuanMingYuan). These are within walking distance of each other in west Beijing and both have metro (subway) stops. In neither film are all the scenic spots visited; but then these are huge places; both are well worth a visit when you're in Beijing ...

With Yasmine's Journey ...