Exciting updates – JET programme

Long time no see! It's been a while (thanks covid...) but I'm finally back to the blog to share some really exciting updates - I'm off to Japan in September! I heard this week that I've been successfully offered a place on the JET program to work as an Assistant Language Teacher. What is the …

Lijiang – Black Dragon Pool

One of the main sights in Lijiang and situated just outside of the old town, the Black Dragon Pool is a beautiful scenic spot in a very convenient location. That does mean that it is very busy, but also worth a quick visit if you're in the area. The main highlight of the Black Dragon …

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山)

Probably the most spectacular and disappointing spot I visited this summer, Jade Dragon Stone Mountain was both incredible and a massive let-down. It is a popular scenic spot a few hours drive from Lijiang in Yunnan Province. The mountain itself is part of the larger Yulong mountain range, which also forms one side of the …

Puzhehei Face Washing Festival

One of our taxi drivers in Kunming recommended Puzhehei as a great day trip from Kunming, since at the time it was the annual Face Painting Festival (花脸节) of the local Sani people. This month-long festival starts in late July each year, and traditionally participants had their faces washed in the river before painting them …

Kunming Dianchi Lake – Xishan Scenic Area

On the shores of the famous Dianchi Lake near Kunming stands the forest-covered Xishan Mountain. After spending the morning exploring the Daguan Pavilion Park and Yunnan Nationalities Village, this was an opportunity to visit a bit of nature - although travelling with a young child meant we were unable to do any of the longer …