The Bund, ShangHai 上海 : day and night

Filmed in July 2013. With Sticker Travel. First film shows the village of HongCun in AnHui province. Scenes from the film 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' were filmed in HongCun, which is close to the south slope of Mount HuangShan and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The second film shows some places from WuYuan County, JiangXi province, including LiKeng village. Many of the well-preserved structures here date back to the Tang Dynasty, around 700 AD.

With Valeriy Blank ... TongLiao travel guide Introduction TongLiao, located in eastern Inner Mongolia, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and unique ethnic diversity. As a key city in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, TongLiao offers a blend of Mongolian traditions and modern urban life. This guide will provide you with detailed information on the city's attractions, local cuisine, cultural highlights, and practical travel tips for an enjoyable visit to TongLiao. Must-See Attractions Dalelin Temple (大乐林寺) Dalelin Temple is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples in Inner Mongolia. This beautiful temple complex features stunning architecture, intricate murals, and serene courtyards. It is a place of worship and meditation, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. Horqin Grassland (科尔沁草原) The Horqin Grassland is a vast expanse of natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolian people. Visitors can stay in yurts, ride horses, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and endless plains. The grassland is especially beautiful during the summer when wildflowers are in full bloom. Nadam Fair (那达慕大会) The Nadam Fair is an annual festival celebrated by the Mongolian people, showcasing traditional sports such as horse racing, wrestling, and archery. The fair is a vibrant and colorful event, featuring traditional music, dance, and delicious local food. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Mongolian culture and traditions. TongLiao Museum (通辽博物馆) The TongLiao Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and natural environment of TongLiao and the surrounding region. The museum's exhibits include ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, and displays on the local flora and fauna. It provides a comprehensive overview of the area's rich heritage. Kulun Temple (库伦寺) Kulun Temple, also known as the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas, is another significant Tibetan Buddhist temple in TongLiao. The temple is renowned for its impressive collection of Buddha statues and beautiful religious art. It is a serene and spiritual place, attracting both worshippers and tourists. Local Cuisine TongLiao's cuisine is a delightful blend of Mongolian and Chinese flavors, featuring hearty and savory dishes. Here are some must-try foods: Roast Lamb (烤羊肉) Roast lamb is a staple of Mongolian cuisine and a must-try when visiting TongLiao. The meat is marinated with spices and slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful lamb that is often enjoyed with flatbread and fresh vegetables. Milk Tea (奶茶) Mongolian milk tea is a traditional beverage made with tea, milk, and salt. It has a unique and comforting flavor, often served with traditional snacks like cheese and bread. It is a perfect drink to warm you up on a chilly day. Buuz (包子) Buuz are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, usually lamb or beef, and seasoned with onions and spices. These savory dumplings are a popular snack or meal, enjoyed for their rich taste and satisfying texture. Cheese (奶酪) Mongolian cheese, made from cow or goat milk, is a traditional food that comes in various forms, from hard and crumbly to soft and creamy. It is often enjoyed as a snack or used as an ingredient in other dishes. Cultural Highlights Traditional Mongolian Music and Dance Traditional Mongolian music and dance are integral parts of the local culture in TongLiao. Performances often feature throat singing, horsehead fiddle (morin khuur), and lively dances that reflect the nomadic lifestyle and natural beauty of the grasslands. Attending a cultural performance is a wonderful way to experience the artistic heritage of the Mongolian people. Ethnic Festivals TongLiao hosts several ethnic festivals throughout the year, celebrating the customs and traditions of the Mongolian, Han, and other ethnic groups in the region. These festivals include music, dance, food, and various cultural activities, offering a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. Handicrafts and Souvenirs TongLiao is known for its traditional handicrafts, including embroidery, leather goods, and jewelry. Local markets and shops offer a variety of handmade items that make for unique souvenirs and gifts. These crafts reflect the artistic skills and cultural heritage of the local people. Practical Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit TongLiao is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting Around: TongLiao has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Renting a car or hiring a local guide can also be a convenient way to explore the surrounding grasslands and attractions. Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but Mongolian is also widely spoken. English is not commonly spoken, so it's helpful to learn some basic Mandarin phrases or use a translation app. Accommodation: TongLiao offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to more upscale establishments. Staying in a yurt on the grasslands is a unique experience that provides a glimpse into the traditional Mongolian lifestyle. Health and Safety: TongLiao is generally a safe city for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings. Conclusion TongLiao is a fascinating destination that offers a blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and unique ethnic traditions. Whether you're exploring its historic temples, enjoying the local cuisine, or experiencing the vibrant festivals, TongLiao provides a memorable and enriching travel experience. Use this guide to make the most of your visit to this captivating city in Inner Mongolia.

With Pradip Jamnadas ... Bonus films on the liver ...

Introduction: Chili oil is a versatile and flavorful condiment widely used in Chinese cuisine, particularly in SiChuan and HuNan dishes. It adds heat, depth and aroma to a variety of dishes, from noodles and stir-fries to dumplings and marinades. Making chili oil at home allows you to customize the flavors and heat level to your preference, and it's surprisingly simple to prepare, with just a few key ingredients. Ingredients: A neutral Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, grape-seed oil, or peanut oil. This will serve as the base for the chili oil and carry the flavors of the aromatics and spices. Dried Chilies: Use dried chili peppers of your choice, such as Chinese facing-heaven chilies, Thai bird's eye chilies, or arbol chilies; but any will be fine. Adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of heat. If whole dried chilies, crumble into flakes. Some sliced fresh chilis can also be included. Sichuan Peppercorns: Optional but highly recommended for authentic Sichuan flavor. Sichuan peppercorns add a citrusy, floral aroma and a distinctive numbing sensation to the chili oil. Can be bought at a Chinese grocery store or online. Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and scallions are common aromatics used in chili oil. They add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Spices: Optional spices such as star anise and cloves can be added for additional flavor and complexity. Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the chili oil. Method: Prepare the Ingredients: If using whole dried chilies, remove the stems and cut or tear them into smaller pieces. Peel and slice the garlic and ginger. Cut the scallions into small pieces. Infuse the oil: In a saucepan or skillet, heat the neutral oil over low to medium heat. Add the dried chilies, Sichuan peppercorns (if using), garlic, ginger, plus any optional spices. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the aromatics are fragrant and slightly golden, about 10-15 minutes. Cool the oil: Remove the pan from the heat and let the oil cool. This allows the flavors to infuse into the oil. Strain the oil: Once the oil has cooled, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Storage: In an airtight container, store the chili oil in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Tips: Adjust the quantity of dried chilies and SiChuan peppercorns to your preferred level of heat and numbing sensation. Experiment with different aromatics and spices to customize the flavor of your chili oil. A little sesame oil can be added at the end to further enhance the flavor and aroma of the chili oil. Toasted sesame oil, in particular, adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the spices and aromatics. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as this can cause the aromatics and spices to burn and develop off-flavors. Enjoy your homemade chili oil drizzled over noodles, stir-fries, dumplings, or any dish that could use a spicy kick and aromatic depth! Give some to your friends and relatives : )

With Walk East ... With KimberleyExploring ... With DuckTravel ...

HuangShan lies in AnHui province, east China, to the west of HangZhou.

A short 30 minute high speed train ride from BeiJing, TianJin is the largest coastal city in northern China.

Childhood trauma, and the art of parenting - and much more - with Gabor Mate (don't miss it) ... More - on society ... The root attachment / addiction is to the idea of oneself as separate; self-perpetuating, including literally. Some might call this 'hell'.