WuYi Shan 武夷山 in FuJian province

What the West / US have done in Cuba, is what they are also doing in XinJiang (and many other places around the world) - it is always to advance Western / US hegemony (slavery) and NOT about anyone (else)'s human rights / well-being - that's just marketing BS - it is ALWAYS for the benefit of the aggressors who claim to be in support of 'the people' (they starved) to subjugate the country. "When the rich take money from the poor, it's called business, When poor people resist, it's called violence." - Mark Twain

With Where's Poppy and Travelight ...

Relax on peaceful rides along beautiful winding rivers through lush vegetation and karst peaks. GuangXi province, south China.

With Beijing Old Liu ... Visitor Guide to YanQi Lake, BeiJing Overview YanQi Lake, located in the HuaiRou District of BeiJing, is a stunning natural area known for its picturesque landscapes and clear waters. It is a popular destination for both leisure and business, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a venue for high-profile international events, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in 2014. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), approximately 50 kilometers from YanQi Lake. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the lake. By Train: You can take a high-speed train to HuaiRou North Railway Station and then a taxi or local bus to YanQi Lake. By Bus: Several buses run from downtown BeiJing to HuaiRou District. You can then take a local bus or taxi to YanQi Lake. Getting Around Walking: YanQi Lake area is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate its natural beauty and serene environment. Biking: Renting a bike is a popular option for getting around and exploring the scenic routes around the lake. Local Transport: Taxis and shuttle services are available for traveling to and from different parts of the lake area and nearby attractions. Main Attractions YanQi Island YanQi Island is the centerpiece of YanQi Lake, hosting luxury resorts, conference centers, and beautiful gardens. It is an ideal place for relaxation, high-end dining, and international conferences. YanQi Tower The YanQi Tower offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for breathtaking scenery and photography opportunities. Boat Tours Boat tours on YanQi Lake provide a peaceful and scenic way to explore the area. Various types of boats, from traditional Chinese boats to modern yachts, are available for hire. Wild Duck Lake Nearby Wild Duck Lake is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a variety of bird species, especially migratory birds. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Hongluo Temple Located a short distance from YanQi Lake, Hongluo Temple is one of the largest and oldest temples in northern China. It offers a serene environment and rich cultural heritage. Local Cuisine While visiting YanQi Lake, you can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines. Here are some recommendations: Peking Duck: A world-famous dish, Peking Duck is a must-try when in BeiJing. Many restaurants near YanQi Lake serve this delicacy. YanQi Lake Fish: Freshly caught fish from the lake, prepared in various styles, is a local specialty. HuaiRou Chestnut: HuaiRou is known for its delicious chestnuts, which can be enjoyed roasted or used in local dishes. Shopping Local Handicrafts: Explore shops around YanQi Lake for traditional Chinese handicrafts, including silk products, pottery, and paintings. Specialty Foods: Purchase local specialties such as HuaiRou chestnuts, honey, and other agricultural products. Souvenirs: Various souvenir shops offer items commemorating the APEC summit and other significant events held at YanQi Lake. Accommodation Luxury Resorts: YanQi Lake is home to several luxury resorts, such as the YanQi Lake Kempinski Hotel, which offers top-notch amenities and stunning views. Mid-Range Hotels: There are also several mid-range hotels and boutique accommodations around the lake area, providing comfort and convenience at reasonable prices. Guesthouses: For a more local experience, consider staying in one of the guesthouses or inns in the nearby villages. Historical Background of YanQi Lake YanQi Lake is a man-made reservoir created in the 1980s to improve water supply and irrigation for the HuaiRou District. The project aimed to enhance the local agricultural productivity and provide a recreational area for residents and visitors. Over the years, YanQi Lake has developed into a major tourist destination and a hub for international events. The lake and its surrounding areas have been carefully maintained and upgraded to offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. The area around YanQi Lake has also been a site of historical significance. The nearby Hongluo Temple, dating back over 1,000 years, reflects the region's rich spiritual and cultural history. The combination of ancient traditions and modern development makes YanQi Lake a unique and attractive destination. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit YanQi Lake are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: YanQi Lake is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to enjoy the scenic views, visit local attractions, and savor the local cuisine. Conclusion YanQi Lake, with its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the tranquil lake, visiting nearby cultural sites, or enjoying local cuisine, YanQi Lake provides a serene escape and a glimpse into the rich heritage of BeiJing. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this picturesque destination in the HuaiRou District.

How the West created the discord with China, and Asia, and what might ensue ...

Bonus film - South Village in NanNing ...

With Little Chinese Everywhere ... Bonus film - Uyghur life in Turpan desert oasis ... Welcome to Turpan, Oasis of the Gobi Desert Introduction Top Attractions Activities Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Getting There Introduction Turpan, also known as Turfan, is a city oasis located in the Gobi Desert of XinJiang, in the Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture. This ancient city is one of the hottest and driest places in China, yet it is renowned for its lush vineyards, ancient ruins, and unique cultural heritage. Turpan is an important stop on the ancient Silk Road and has a rich history that spans thousands of years, with influences from various cultures, including Uyghur, Han Chinese, and Central Asian. Despite its harsh desert climate, Turpan is famous for its agricultural produce, particularly grapes, thanks to its innovative karez irrigation system. The city is a fascinating blend of ancient history and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring XinJiang. Top Attractions Jiaohe Ancient City Jiaohe Ancient City, also known as Yarghul, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Dating back over 2,000 years, Jiaohe was once a bustling city on the Silk Road. The city is situated on a plateau surrounded by deep valleys, making it a natural fortress. Visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city, including its well-preserved streets, houses, temples, and administrative buildings. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a Silk Road city. Flaming Mountains The Flaming Mountains are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Turpan. These red sandstone mountains are named for the intense heat they radiate, especially during the summer months, when the surface temperatures can soar above 70°C (158°F). The mountains appear to be ablaze, particularly at sunset, when they glow in various shades of red and orange. The Flaming Mountains are steeped in legend and have been immortalized in the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West." Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves The Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves are a series of cave temples carved into the cliffs of the Mutou Valley. These caves date back to the 5th to 14th centuries and contain exquisite murals that depict scenes from Buddhist scriptures and the daily life of the time. The caves are a testament to the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road and offer insight into the cultural and religious exchanges that took place in this region. Grape Valley Grape Valley is a lush oasis in the heart of the desert, famous for its vineyards and production of sweet Turpan grapes. The valley is a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert and offers a peaceful retreat with its shady vineyards, running streams, and traditional Uyghur houses. Visitors can stroll through the vineyards, taste fresh grapes and raisins, and learn about the traditional methods of grape cultivation and drying. Karez Irrigation System The Karez Irrigation System is an ancient engineering marvel that has been vital to the survival of Turpan's agriculture in the arid desert environment. This underground network of channels, wells, and tunnels brings water from the distant Tianshan Mountains to the city, allowing the cultivation of crops in the desert. Visitors can explore the Karez Museum to learn about the history and operation of this ingenious system and see how it has sustained life in Turpan for centuries. Activities Exploring Ancient Ruins: Discover the rich history of Turpan by exploring ancient sites such as Jiaohe Ancient City and the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. These sites offer a fascinating insight into the city's past and the cultures that have influenced it. Vineyard Tours: Take a guided tour of the vineyards in Grape Valley, where you can learn about grape cultivation, taste fresh produce, and enjoy the serene beauty of this desert oasis. Hiking in the Flaming Mountains: For those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking in the Flaming Mountains offers an opportunity to experience the dramatic landscape up close. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended to avoid the intense heat. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional Uyghur villages, attending local festivals, or enjoying performances of Uyghur music and dance. Museum Visits: Visit local museums such as the Turpan Museum and the Karez Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history, culture, and technological achievements. Local Culture Turpan is a melting pot of cultures, with significant influences from Uyghur, Han Chinese, and Central Asian traditions. The Uyghur people, who are the dominant ethnic group in the region, have a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in their language, music, dance, and cuisine. Uyghur music and dance are vibrant and expressive, often featuring lively rhythms, stringed instruments like the dutar, and intricate dance movements. Traditional Uyghur dances are a highlight of local festivals and celebrations, where people gather to perform and enjoy these cultural expressions. The local architecture is also distinctive, with traditional Uyghur houses often featuring courtyards, intricate wooden carvings, and grape trellises providing shade in the hot desert climate. Visitors to Turpan can explore these traditional homes and learn about the customs and daily life of the Uyghur people. Local Cuisine Turpan is renowned for its delicious Uyghur cuisine, which features a variety of flavorful dishes that reflect the region's agricultural abundance and cultural diversity. Some must-try dishes include: Polo (Uyghur Pilaf): A traditional Uyghur dish made with rice, lamb, carrots, and spices, often served with raisins or other dried fruits. Polo is a staple of Uyghur cuisine and is enjoyed on special occasions and everyday meals alike. Kebabs: Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with a blend of spices and often served with flatbread. Kebabs are a popular street food in Turpan and are a must-try for meat lovers. Nan: Uyghur flatbread, known as nan, is a common accompaniment to many meals. It is often baked in a traditional tandoor oven and can be served plain or topped with sesame seeds. Grape Dishes: Given Turpan's fame for its grapes, you'll find many dishes that incorporate this fruit, including grape juice, grape syrup, and dishes featuring dried grapes (raisins). Lagman: A hand-pulled noodle dish typically served with a stir-fry of meat and vegetables. Lagman is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the culinary skills of the Uyghur people. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Turpan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Hydration: Given the extreme heat and arid climate, it's essential to stay hydrated while exploring Turpan. Always carry plenty of water with you and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion. Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect against the strong sun. In the cooler months, bring layers as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Respect Local Customs: Turpan has a diverse cultural heritage, so it's important to be respectful of local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites or interacting with the Uyghur community. Safety: Stay on designated paths when exploring ancient sites and natural attractions. The terrain can be rugged, and temperatures can be extreme, so caution is advised. Getting There Turpan is located in the eastern part of XinJiang, and there are several options for getting there: By Air: The nearest airport is Turpan Jiaohe Airport, which has flights to and from major cities such as Urumqi, Beijing, and Shanghai. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center. By Train: Turpan is well-connected by rail, with the Turpan North Railway Station serving as a major stop on the Lanzhou-XinJiang High-Speed Railway. Trains from Urumqi, Lanzhou, and other major cities offer convenient access to Turpan. By Bus: Long-distance buses operate from Urumqi and other nearby cities to Turpan. The bus ride offers scenic views of the desert and mountains along the way. By Car: If you prefer to drive, Turpan is accessible via highways from Urumqi and other parts of XinJiang. The drive offers a unique opportunity to experience the vast landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

No video in this post. At BB, we think this is something crucial to well-being and we'll do our best to convey our experience ... The most important point is - don't imagine that you can 'fix' things - at the start, one needs 3 or 4 meetings to relax and know someone - but beyond that, if things are not going well, get out early; one cannot 'fix' incompatibility, and certainly not a narcissist (they kind of know that they are wacko, but will never, ever admit it). 'Love' shouldn't require a lot of work; a bit maybe; but if one senses that it is all 'one way', or not going anywhere, quit. The relationship is very unlikely to get better; it almost certainly will get worse. Doomed. Save yourself years of wasted life. If you don't, expect to become bitter and twisted yourself. At BB, we feel that health is THE foundation to all else, so we do cover health in this regard, although primarily a travel and culture site. Thousand page books are not our thing; we get straight to the point. If you want to delve deeper, consider this - why is a relationship so important to you ? Going beyond 'animal instincts' is beyond many - they never really mature. If the immature instinct is made the 'gold standard', what can one expect ? If one cannot go beyond the animal brain, one is f****d [animal brain lingo]. The thing is, bad relationships that progress to having kids, can produce sad / bad kids (that may have to endure two decades of emotional abuse). And likely to repeat the cycle, and possibly go into politics, etc. - hence, it is very important to not be a part of this. Maybe, romantic 'love' is simply the grand distraction meme that helps keep the elite in power.

The Animals - blues / rock from the 60s (blues music) ...