US proxy war in Myanmar threatens China and the rest of Asia

With Jason / Living in China ... Plus, a look around Harbin ...

YunNan province. A beautiful film of a wonderful place - don't miss it ... Live more !

With Seiu Travel ... Harbin City Summer Visitor Guide - A Romantic Resort Destination Introduction Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang Province, is often known for its ice and snow festival, but it is also a charming summer destination. With its mix of Russian architecture, lush parks, and romantic atmosphere, Harbin is perfect for couples seeking a summer getaway. This guide will help you explore the best of Harbin in the warmer months, focusing on its romantic appeal. Key Attractions 1. Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) Central Street is Harbin's most famous pedestrian street, lined with European-style buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. A stroll down this street offers a glimpse into Harbin's rich cultural heritage and a romantic atmosphere with street performers and outdoor dining. 2. Harbin Sun Island Scenic Area Located on the north bank of the Songhua River, Sun Island is a beautiful park ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying nature. In summer, the island is filled with blooming flowers and greenery, making it a perfect spot for couples to relax and enjoy the scenery. 3. St. Sophia Cathedral This stunning Russian Orthodox church is an architectural marvel and one of Harbin's most iconic landmarks. The cathedral, with its green onion-shaped domes, is a romantic backdrop for photos and offers a glimpse into Harbin's Russian past. 4. Songhua River Cruise A cruise on the Songhua River is a must-do for couples visiting Harbin. The gentle breeze and scenic views of the city's skyline create a romantic ambiance. Evening cruises are especially popular, offering a chance to see the city lights reflecting on the water. Romantic Activities Evening Walks: Take a stroll along the Songhua River or in Zhaolin Park. The soft glow of street lamps and the serene environment provide a perfect setting for romantic evening walks. Horse Carriage Rides: Central Street offers horse-drawn carriage rides, adding a touch of old-world romance as you ride through the historic parts of the city. Visit to Siberian Tiger Park: For couples who love wildlife, visiting the nearby Siberian Tiger Park can be an adventurous yet memorable experience. Café Hopping: Explore the numerous cafes along Central Street. Enjoy a quiet coffee break with pastries and soak in the atmosphere of Harbin's unique blend of Russian and Chinese culture. Boat Rides on Sun Island: Rent a boat on Sun Island and enjoy a peaceful ride on the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Romantic Dining Options Harbin offers a variety of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eateries, catering to romantic outings. Here are some recommended spots: Huamei Restaurant: Known for its Russian-style architecture and dishes, Huamei offers an authentic experience. Try the borscht, Russian bread, and hearty meat dishes. Modern Hotel: A historic hotel with a famous bakery, offering delicious Russian and European pastries. It's a great place for afternoon tea or a sweet treat. Lucy's Café and Restaurant: Located on Central Street, Lucy's offers a cozy atmosphere with a mix of Chinese and Western cuisine. The outdoor seating is perfect for a summer evening. 1918 Coffee Shop: A quaint café located in a historic building, offering a charming ambiance and a range of coffee and light snacks. Ideal for a relaxed and romantic coffee break. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June to August) are ideal for enjoying Harbin's outdoor attractions and pleasant weather. What to Wear: Summer temperatures in Harbin are mild, but evenings can be cool. Bring light, comfortable clothing for daytime and a light jacket for the evening. Language: While Chinese is the main language, English is not widely spoken. Having a translation app or a phrasebook can be helpful. Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It's advisable to carry some cash as not all places accept credit cards. Transportation: Harbin has a reliable public transport system, including buses and taxis. Central Street and many attractions are walkable.

An hour north from BeiJing city center ...

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.

Places include : BeiJing 北京 | Tibet 西藏 | The Three Gorges, YangTse River 长江三峡 | HongHu Lake, HuBei 洪湖（湖北） | ZiWei Flower Park, ShaoYang, HuNan 紫微花公园，邵阳 （湖南） | ZhangJiaJie 张家界（湖南).

It comes down to this - do they want Taiwan to remain in the status quo (semi-independence) with good relations with the rest of China, - or - does it want to become increasingly a US (and Japan) puppet regime / missile base (DPP) - (that would be suicide) ? If the former, it makes sense to back the KMT and not waste the vote on a third party that cannot win. The future of Taiwan, and its prosperity, lies with closer ties with China, not war. With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... With Danny Haiphong and George Galloway (jump to 1 hour 11 min.s for the Taiwan discussion) ... With David Oualaalou ...