Chongqing 重庆
November 9, 2024
We took the 10 a.m. shuttle bus back to the train station, ……
上午10点，我们乘直通车前往铜仁火车站，。。。
November 9, 2024
We took the 10 a.m. shuttle bus back to the train station, sharing the ride with only four other passengers. The journey was smooth until the driver unexpectedly took a detour to an inspection station near the train station for a vehicle check while we were still on the bus. It felt a bit odd and inconvenient, but the process lasted less than 15 minutes, and we had plenty of time to catch our train to Chongqing.
After arriving in Chongqing, we enjoyed a meal featuring the famous Chongqing Spicy Chicken (重庆辣子鸡) along with other delicious dishes. Satisfied, we made our way to Hongya Cave, a cultural and commercial landmark known for its striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The area was crowded, so we decided to walk in the opposite direction across the bridge, planning to return later when it might be less busy.
As we strolled towards the Jiangbei side of the river, we noticed muffled voices coming from speakers below the bridge and dim lights in the distance. Intrigued by the commotion, we decided to investigate further. Crossing the river towards the Grand Theater, we discovered a popular photography spot, where the night scene with Hongya Cave and the bridge served as a stunning backdrop.
Hundreds of people were gathered, many of them posing for photos. Professional photographers were everywhere, each using microphones and mini speakers to give instructions to their clients over the bustling noise. Some had portable lights and props, while middlemen eagerly approached passersby, advertising their services. It was a lively, chaotic scene unlike anything we’d ever witnessed—a grand-scale photoshoot in full swing.
After soaking in the unique energy of the photography spot, we turned back and headed to explore Hongya Cave itself. The 11 levels, filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, were both fascinating and exhausting to navigate. By the time we finished, we were completely worn out and decided to call it a day.
November 10, 2024
Our hotel didn’t offer breakfast, so we set out in search of a café. Using a map app, we located a Manner Coffee inside the Raffles City shopping mall, just a short walk away. On the way, we stopped at a street vendor and bought a crispy scallion pancake, savoring its freshly made flavor. However, upon arriving at the mall, we discovered that although the coffee shop was open, the mall itself wouldn’t open until 10 a.m. Disappointed, we gave up on our coffee plans and decided to continue walking toward Chaotianmen Square.
At the square, we snapped a few photos and noticed several buses unloading groups of middle school students. It was surprising to see school-organized activities taking place on a Sunday. Shortly afterward, we stumbled upon an open Starbucks and finally got our coffee, relishing a brief moment of peace and quiet. Unfortunately, this tranquility was short-lived, as many of the students who couldn’t access the mall soon poured into the Starbucks, turning the once-calm atmosphere into a lively, chaotic scene. Afterward, we made a brief stop at Hongya Cave. Surprisingly, it was much quieter and less vibrant than last night, offering a stark contrast to the bustling scenes at night.
Then, we took the subway to the Mountain City Footpath and indulged in a variety of local snacks along the way. Later, near the Eighteen Steps area, we decided to try Chongqing hot pot. Despite opting for “mild spice,” the flavors proved to be far too intense for our palates. From that point on, we vowed to skip even the mild spice options in future meals!
In the evening, we returned to a bustling night market. The “I’m in Chongqing” sign in the city center had become a popular photo spot, and the lively atmosphere of the city at night was infectious. It was the perfect way to conclude a vibrant, adventure-filled day.
November 11, 2024
Before heading to the train station to continue our journey to the next destination, we stopped at Manner Coffee near the Jiefangbei area. Paired with a pastry, it made for a delightful breakfast. We then strolled leisurely around the plaza, savoring the last moments of our time in Chongqing, bringing our visit to a satisfying conclusion.
2024年11月9日
上午10点，我们乘直通车前往铜仁火车站，车上仅有四名乘客。一路平稳，直到接近火车站时，司机突然开车进入车辆检查站进行检测。虽然让人意外，但检查过程仅花了不到15分钟，我们仍然赶上了前往重庆的火车。
到达重庆后，我们享用了一顿丰盛的晚餐，其中最难忘的是招牌重庆辣子鸡，搭配其他地道美食，令人回味无穷。晚餐后，我们前往洪崖洞，这座以独特建筑风格和热闹氛围闻名的文化商业地标，夜晚灯火通明，美不胜收。然而，洪崖洞人流量太大，我们决定先过桥到对岸散步，等晚些时候人少了再返回。
漫步至江北大剧院附近时，我们被桥下的喇叭声, 人群和闪烁的烛灯吸引，跟随灯光发现了一个热门摄影点。洪崖洞与大桥的夜景成为绝佳的背景，吸引了许多代客照相者。那些专业摄影师带着灯光和道具忙碌拍摄，用小喇叭不停地向他们的客户发出提示，场面热闹非凡，令人印象深刻。
此后，我们返回洪崖洞参观。这座11层的建筑内汇聚了商店、餐馆和文化展览，各具特色。尽管上上下下的探索让人疲惫，但也充满乐趣。最终，我们结束了这一天的行程，回到酒店休息。
2024年11月10日
我们住的酒店没有提供早餐，于是出门寻找咖啡馆。在离酒店不远的来福士购物中心，我们找到了一家Manner Coffee，步行途中还在路边小摊买了一个香酥的葱油饼。到达后发现，虽然咖啡馆已开门，但商场要到早上10点才开放。无奈之下，我们放弃了喝咖啡的计划，绕过商场前往朝天门广场。
在广场拍了几张照片后，我们注意到几辆满载学生的大巴，感到很惊讶，周日竟然有学校组织活动。随后，我们找到了一家已经开门的星巴克，点了杯咖啡，享受片刻的清静。然而，没过多久，大批学生因不能去购物中心而涌入星巴克，原本的宁静瞬间被打破。
接着，我们搭地铁前往山城步道，品尝了几样地道的小吃。然后在十八梯附近尝试一下重庆火锅，从那之后，不再点小辣的菜了。晚上，我们再次前往夜市，在市中区＂我在重庆＂显示成为网红打卡热点，热闹的重庆夜晚氛围为一天画上了充满活力的句号。
2024年11月11日
在前往火车站赶往下一个目的地之前，我们在解放碑附近喝了杯Manner Coffee，搭配一份糕点，随后在广场上悠闲地漫步，为重庆的旅程画上了一个圆满的句号。
Fanjingshan 梵净山
November 7, 2024
Fanjingshan, one of China’s five great Buddhist mountains,……
梵净山是中国五大佛教名山之一。。。
November 7, 2024
Fanjingshan, one of China’s five great Buddhist mountains, is a sacred site dedicated to Maitreya Buddha. Interestingly, we didn’t know much about it until we began researching areas near Guiyang. Intrigued by photos of the striking red and golden temples perched atop split rock formations on Little Red Book, we decided to spend a day exploring this mystical destination.
We took a high-speed train to Tongren Station and transferred to a direct shuttle bus heading to the Fanjingshan Scenic Area. So far, we’ve found the combination of high-speed trains and shuttle buses to be the most convenient way for car-free travelers like us to explore China’s scenic parks.
Upon arrival, the host of our B&B kindly picked us up at the bus station since the accommodation was over a kilometer away. The unit was newly built but had an uncomfortably small bathroom, so we switched to a different room.
After settling in, we wandered to the food street just outside the scenic area. There, we enjoyed matcha lattes and were surprised to learn that matcha tea is a major local product. Dinner was at a nearby restaurant; while the food was good, it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
November 8, 2024
We set out early in the morning to catch the park shuttle. After a 40-minute ride, we were dropped off at the lower cable car station. From there, visitors can either ride the cable car to the summit or hike up. While more than 90% of people opted for the cable car, we decided to take the challenging hike.
For safety reasons, we had to register at the entrance of the hiking trail. The path was well-maintained, featuring over 8,000 stone steps that wound through lush scenery. However, it was no easy feat for Chenggang, especially during the final 1,000 steps. He had to rest every 100 steps, and his knees began to hurt halfway up. He used KT tape to ease the pain, which helped him power through. Covering 5 kilometers with a 1,200-meter elevation gain, the hike took us five hours to complete. At the exit gate, a counter showed only 67 people had chosen to hike up that day.
Once at the plaza, we learned that during peak season, visitors must book in advance to climb the iconic Red Cloud Golden Summit. Fortunately, with fewer tourists today, we could walk up without a reservation. However, the narrow pathway near the summit caused a traffic jam, and we waited patiently for about 30 minutes to continue our climb.
The ascent itself was not difficult or dangerous, as the path and summit were well-fenced for safety. At the summit, we were rewarded with panoramic views of mountain ranges and the sight of two temples perched on split rock formations connected by a bridge. The scenery was nothing short of breathtaking.
Afterward, we visited the nearby Mushroom Rock, an extraordinary natural formation that added another highlight to the day. By the time we finished, the summit area was nearly empty, and staff began closing it for the day. We were among the last visitors to take the cable car down, as the hiking trail for descending closes at 3 PM.
The experience, though exhausting, was truly unforgettable.
2024年11月7日
梵净山是中国五大佛教名山之一，也是弥勒菩萨的道场。我们在计划贵州贵阳附近的行程之前，对它并不了解。直到在“小红书”上看到一些红金相间的庙宇坐落在巨石裂缝顶端的照片后，决定抽一天时间探索这片神秘的圣地。
我们乘坐高铁抵达铜仁站，然后换乘直达梵净山景区的班车。目前来看，高铁加班车的组合是我们这种不自驾游客人游览中国景区的最佳方式，既便捷又高效。
抵达后，民宿老板在车站接我们，因为民宿距离车站超过一公里。入住的房间是新装修的，但浴室太小，不够舒适，于是我们换了一间更合适的房间。
安顿好后，我们来到景区外的美食街，品尝了抹茶拿铁，得知抹茶茶叶是当地的一大特产。晚餐在街上的一家餐馆解决，菜品还不错，但没有特别的感觉。
2024年11月8日
今天一早，我们赶上了景区的班车。经过大约40分钟车程后，抵达了下缆车站。在这里，游客可以选择乘缆车上山或者徒步登山。虽然超过九成的游客选择了缆车，我们决定挑战一下徒步上山。
为了安全，徒步入口处需要登记信息。步道非常规整，全程有8000多级台阶，蜿蜒穿梭在郁郁葱葱的山林中。然而，这趟旅程对成刚来说并不轻松，尤其是最后1000级台阶，每走100级就需要休息片刻。途中，他的膝盖开始疼痛，不得不使用肌贴缓解疼痛。最终，我们完成了5公里的徒步，攀登了1200米的海拔高度，用了整整五个小时。当我们通过徒步出口时，统计牌显示今天仅有67人选择了徒步上山。
在旺季，到达普渡广场后，需要提前预约登顶红云金顶。然而今天游客较少，我们无需预约即可登顶。不过，由于登顶小径较窄，前段出现了“交通堵塞”，我们耐心等待了大约30分钟才继续前行。
攀登本身并不算危险，因为通道和山顶都有防护措施。到达山顶后，两座庙宇分别坐落在断裂的巨石上，由一座桥连接起来。这一壮观的景象与群山的全景交相辉映，令人叹为观止。
随后，我们前往附近的蘑菇石景点参观，这块奇特的自然岩石形态为一天的行程增添了新的亮点。结束游览时，山顶的游客几乎已经散去，工作人员开始清场。徒步下山的步道下午3点就关闭，我们赶上最后一班缆车下山。
尽管这段旅程略显疲惫，但它所带来的震撼与满足感无可比拟，令人回味无穷，难以忘怀。
Huangguoshu 黄棵树瀑布
Novenber 6, 2024
We took a high-speed train to Anshun West Station,…….
我们乘坐高铁前往安顺西站，。。。
Novenber 6, 2024
We took a high-speed train to Anshun West Station, where we transferred to a direct shuttle bus heading to the park. Huangguoshu Grand Waterfall, the largest in Asia, was absolutely stunning, even at the start of the dry season.
After marveling at the grand waterfall, we explored the surrounding cluster of waterfalls, including Doupotang Waterfall, Tianxingqiao Waterfall, and Luositian Waterfall. Each had its own distinctive charm and breathtaking scenery, rivaling the magnificence of the main waterfall.
Returning to the city, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Guiyang’s night market and nightlife. The lively streets and bustling energy of Guiyang left us thoroughly impressed.
2024年11月6日
我们乘坐高铁前往安顺西站，然后换乘直达景区的穿梭巴士。即使在旱季初期，黄果树大瀑布——亚洲最大的瀑布，依然令人叹为观止，气势磅礴。
欣赏完雄伟的大瀑布后，我们继续探访了周边的瀑布群，包括陡坡塘瀑布、天星桥瀑布和螺丝滩瀑布。每一处都各具特色，风景如画，与主瀑布的壮丽不相上下。
回到市区后，我们徜徉于贵阳热闹非凡的夜市和夜生活之中。街道上的熙熙攘攘和贵阳蓬勃的活力让我们深感惊艳。
Tianhetan 天河潭风景区
November 5, 2024
After traveling for three weeks through Southeast Asia and China,……
在东南亚和中国旅行了三周后,。。。
November 5, 2024
After traveling for three weeks through Southeast Asia and China, we had promised ourselves a rest day today. However, after finishing our laundry in the morning, we decided we couldn’t just stay in the hotel and headed out. Our destination was Tianhetan Scenic Zone, a vast park that features mountains, rivers, caves, and ethnic culture. The area was enormous, but surprisingly, there were very few visitors. In fact, we saw almost as many workers as tourists throughout the park.
We boarded the park shuttle, which took us to a dock on the river. From there, we hopped on a boat that carried us into the caves, traveling through canals adorned with colorful lights. The experience was unique, and we couldn’t recall ever doing something like this before. Once the boat ride ended, we explored the caves on foot, marveling at the intricate formations. Exiting the caves, we were greeted by a stunning view of the majestic Tianhe Waterfalls.
Christine decided to take the zipline to the waterfalls for a bit of adventure, while Chenggang chose to walk and meet her there. The view of the waterfalls up close was breathtaking, and we lingered for a while, soaking in the scenery.
After visiting the waterfalls, we headed to the commercial plaza inside the park, which featured shops and art installations. By the time we arrived, the plaza was eerily quiet, with no visitors around. It felt like a ghost town, completely empty and lifeless.
Later, we took a Didi back to the city and visited Jiaxiu Pavilion, a centuries-old structure perched on a small islet in the Nanming River. Known for its cultural significance and picturesque setting, the pavilion was even more enchanting at night, with the lights reflecting beautifully on the water.
We ended the day with a leisurely stroll along the Nanming River, enjoying the pleasant night atmosphere in Guiyang. Continuing our walk, we stopped at the night market and sampled a variety of local snacks. Guiyang’s bustling nightlife and vibrant street food scene left a lasting impression on us.
2024年11月5日
在东南亚和中国旅行了三周后，我们原本承诺今天要好好休息一天。然而，早上洗完衣服后，我们发现自己还是无法待在酒店里，于是决定外出。我们的目的地是天河潭风景区，一个融合了山水、溶洞和民族文化的大型景区。景区范围很大，但令人意外的是，游客非常少，整个公园里我们看到的工作人员几乎和游客一样多。
我们乘坐景区的摆渡车到达河边的码头。从那里，我们搭乘小船进入溶洞，沿着装饰有五彩灯光的水道穿梭。这个体验非常独特，我们回想起来觉得从未有过类似的经历。船行结束后，我们步行探索了溶洞，欣赏到洞内错综复杂的岩石结构和形态。走出溶洞后，一幅壮丽的天河瀑布景色映入眼帘。
Christine选择乘坐滑索到达瀑布，而成刚则选择步行过去与她会合。近距离欣赏瀑布的雄伟景象令人震撼，我们在瀑布旁停留了许久，静静地享受着这一刻的美好。
参观完瀑布后，我们前往景区内的商业广场。广场上设有商店和艺术装置，但当我们到达时，整个广场空无一人，像一座“鬼城”一样，寂静而冷清。
傍晚时分，我们乘滴滴回到市区，前往位于南明河小岛上的甲秀楼。这座有着数百年历史的建筑是贵阳的地标之一，以其深厚的文化意义和优美的环境而闻名。夜晚的甲秀楼在灯光映衬下更显迷人，倒映在河面上，美不胜收。
我们结束了一天的行程，在南明河畔悠闲散步，享受贵阳的美好夜晚。随后，我们前往夜市，品尝了各种当地小吃。贵阳的夜生活热闹非凡，丰富的街头美食让我们印象深刻，为一天画上了完美的句号。
Gull Watch 滇池观鸥
November 4, 2024
We had heard about the Gull Watch at Dianchi Lake,……
滇池是云南省最大的淡水湖，。。。
November 4, 2024
We had heard about the Gull Watch at Dianchi Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province. Before leaving Kunming, we visited the lake, joining hundreds of tourists gathered along the lakeside to watch and feed the white gulls soaring and diving over the water. The scene was truly spectacular and left a lasting impression.
In the afternoon, we took a two-hour high-speed train to Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province. After settling into our hotel, we ventured out to try a famous local specialty, 烙锅 (Lao Guo), a unique style of grilling. It was a delightful experience, and we thoroughly enjoyed the hot, flavorful food, which was especially comforting in the chilly weather.
2024年11月4日
滇池是云南省最大的淡水湖，素有“高原明珠”之称。我们早就听说滇池旁观鸥是昆明冬季的一大亮点，因此在离开昆明之前，我们特意前往滇池，与数百名游客一起聚集在湖岸边。白鸥成群结队地在湖面上翱翔盘旋，游客们拿着面包和鸟食喂它们，场面热闹非凡。那一刻，我们被这些灵动的鸟儿与滇池的自然美景深深吸引，留下了难忘的回忆。
下午，我们乘坐两小时的高铁前往贵州省省会贵阳。抵达后，我们先安顿好酒店，然后外出尝试了一道当地的特色美食——烙锅。这是一种别具一格的铁板烧烤方式，食材新鲜，滋味独特。寒冷的天气里，吃着热腾腾的烙锅食物，不仅暖胃，还让我们感受到贵阳独特的饮食文化和热情，实在是一次难忘的美食体验。
Shilin 石林，昆明
November 2, 2024
Before heading back to Kunming from Shangri-La on the high-speed train, ……
清晨，窗户上蒙着一层水汽，。。。
November 2, 2024
Before heading back to Kunming from Shangri-La on the high-speed train, we enjoyed a local breakfast at a café and took one last stroll through the old town. After checking into our hotel in Kunming, we visited Cuihu (Green Lake) Park, leisurely walking from one gate to another. However, after many days of travel, the repetitive yet undeniably beautiful architecture we had seen throughout the trip began to feel a bit monotonous. As a result, we didn’t spend much time in the park. Upon leaving, we headed to the nearby Coffee Street, but it didn’t leave much of an impression either.
Later in the evening, we dined at a well-known restaurant to try Crossing the Bridge Noodles. The dish was flavorful and satisfying, but we still preferred the version we had enjoyed in Lijiang.
November 3, 2024
Peimin left us to spend time with her mom in Shanghai, so we continued our journey together. After dropping her off at the airport, we returned to the hotel for breakfast and then booked a Didi to the bus station for a direct ride to Shilin.
Shilin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its towering limestone formations that create a truly mesmerizing landscape. Before this trip, it was the only attraction in Kunming we were familiar with, and we had eagerly anticipated visiting it. The site exceeded our expectations. We particularly enjoyed exploring the stunning scenery in the quieter areas, away from the main tourist crowds, where the natural beauty felt even more serene and unspoiled.
At night we visited Kunming old town and tried a few local snacks as suppers. They were delicious. In recent years, Yunnan coffee has become quite popular in China, with shops on this street selling beans for around 600 RMB per kilogram—a price we found steep for coffee.
2024年11月2日
清晨，窗户上蒙着一层水汽，透过朦胧的玻璃，隐约可见寺庙和经轮的轮廓，传递着窗外的寒意。我们在民宿附近找到了一家小餐馆，热乎乎的蒸饺，包子，煎鸡蛋等吃了个饱。回到民宿拿上行李，老板开车送我们到火车站。
今天我们从香格里拉乘坐高铁返回昆明。近六个小时的火车要比坐飞机舒服。挺喜欢火车上的盒饭，味道还不错，再来点小零食，不知不觉就到了昆明。办完酒店入住手续后，我们前往翠湖公园，从一个门漫步到另一个门。经过多天的旅行，我们对公园之类的已经有些审美疲劳，所以没有在公园里待太久，便去了附近的“咖啡街”，但这条街并没有给我们留下太深的印象。
晚上，我们去了一家昆明小有名气的餐厅再次品尝过桥米线。这道菜味道鲜美，但我们更喜欢前几天在丽江古城尝到的版本。
2024年11月3日
大清早佩民一人飞去上海去陪她妈妈，我们父女俩继续我们的旅程。我们在酒店吃了早餐，然后叫了一辆滴滴前往汽车站，搭乘直达石林的长途汽车。
石林是联合国教科文组织的世界遗产，以其高耸的石灰岩地貌而闻名，景观如诗如画。在这次旅行前，这里是我们唯一知道的昆明景点，因此我们早已期盼一睹它的风采。事实证明，这个地方没有让我们失望。我们特别喜欢远离主要游客区的景色，那里的自然美更加宁静和纯粹。
晚上，我们去了昆明老街，尝了几样当地的小吃作为晚餐。这些小吃味道地道，非常美味，给我们留下了深刻的印象。近年来，云南咖啡在中国逐渐流行起来，我们注意到这些街上的咖啡店价格不菲，每公斤售价高达600元人民币。云南咖啡的独特魅力正在吸引越来越多的关注。
Pudacuo NP and Songzanlin Temple 普达措公园与松赞林寺
November 1, 2024
Chenggang rose early to revisit Dukezong Temple ……
成刚一早便起身再次前往独克宗古城的龟山寺。。。
November 1, 2024
Chenggang rose early to revisit Dukezong Temple. The temple’s serene morning atmosphere contrasted with the previous evening’s bustle; only a few early devotees were present, placing pine branches into a stone stove—a ritual unfamiliar to us. The massive prayer wheel, crowded with tourists the night before, stood still without anyone to turn it, offering a distinctly different experience.
We then boarded a direct bus to Pudacuo National Park, utilizing our park passes that included shuttle transportation. After a journey of less than an hour, we arrived at the park and promptly boarded the park shuttle. The first stop was the trailhead of a leisurely 2.2 km walkway along a creek. Instead of starting the hike immediately, we opted for breakfast at a nearby village restaurant. Following a brief meal, we returned to the trail. The hike was pleasant, with beautiful scenery enhancing the experience.
Continuing by bus, we traversed a picturesque valley adorned with vibrant fall colors. Unfortunately, there were no opportunities to disembark and explore this area further. Our next stop was Shudu Lake, where all passengers alighted. Visitors had three options: ferry, walking, or biking. Eager to bike around the lake, Chenggang inquired about rental prices but was curtly informed that bikes were not rented to individuals over 50. Disappointed, we chose to walk. Midway, we paused at a café for a coffee break. Surprisingly, despite espresso being on the menu, we had to explain its preparation to the cashier. Nonetheless, the second-floor view was stunning, providing a much-needed rest.
The shuttle then transported us to Bita Lake. There, we took a brief tour before hastening back to the city, aiming to visit Ganden Sumtseling Monastery before its closing time. Established in 1679, it is Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, often dubbed the “Little Potala Palace.” A shuttle bus conveyed us up the hill, dropping tourists at the complex’s entrance. The temple’s breathtaking beauty and traditional Tibetan architecture were captivating.
We caught the last bus back to the city and concluded the day with a delightful birthday dinner.
2024年11月1日
成刚一早便起身再次前往独克宗古城的龟山寺。清晨的寺庙宁静而美丽，与前一晚的热闹景象形成鲜明对比。此时，只有少数早起的信徒正在将松枝放入石制炉中进行祭祀活动，这种仪式我们并不熟悉。而昨晚被游客围满的巨大转经筒，此刻无人推动，静静地伫立在那里，带来完全不同的感受。
随后，我们乘坐直达巴士前往普达措国家公园，我们昨天提前买好了大巴和包含景区摆渡车的公园通票。不到一小时，我们抵达公园入口，并立即搭乘景区的环保巴士前往第一个停靠点。第一站是沿溪而建的一段2.2公里的步道起点。因为早上出门早，没吃早餐，想着来公园吃。结果步道起点没任何设施，更别说餐饮服务。我们没有立即开始徒步，而是选择到附近村里的一家庄园去碰运气。村里有些传统的藏族民居，很安静，只有那些散养的牛马悠闲地走来走去。庄园的餐厅有提供简单的早餐，一碗热乎乎的米线下肚之后我们回到步道，开始徒步。这条小径景色宜人，步行过程非常惬意。
走完小径，我们必须继续搭乘公园里的大巴去下一站。沿途大巴穿越了一片色彩斑斓的秋景山谷，遗憾的是，这一段并没有设置下车点，无法深入探索。来到第二站蜀都湖，所有游客在此下车。游览蜀都湖的三种方式包括乘船、徒步和骑行。我们本想尝试骑自行车环湖，成刚前去询问租车价格，却被直接告知：他们不向50岁以上的游客提供自行车租赁服务。很失望，于是我们选择了徒步。沿湖的栈道修得非常好，湖光山色风景秀丽。步行途中，我们在湖边的一家咖啡馆停留片刻。令人意外的是，尽管菜单上标注了“意式浓缩咖啡”，我们还是需要向收银员解释这是什么。从咖啡馆的二楼看蜀都湖，景色十分壮观，成为这段旅程中的意外惊喜，也让我们得到了宝贵的休息。
走完沿湖栈道，公园大巴又将我们送往最后一站碧塔海。在那里，我们只稍稍走了一下便急忙坐大巴返回城里，因为我们计划在关门前参观噶丹松赞林寺。
松赞林寺建于1679年，是云南省规模最大的藏传佛教寺院，被誉为“小布达拉宫”。售票窗口在山脚下，一辆寺庙摆渡大巴将我们送上山，并在寺庙入口处下车。寺庙壮丽的建筑和传统的藏式风格让人叹为观止。寺院内到处都是穿着藏族服装拍写真照的年轻人，不过所有殿堂内都不许拍照。松赞林寺很大，一圈走下来，已到关门时间，我们赶上了最后一班下山的车。回到城里后以一顿美味的生日晚餐结束了这充实的一天。
Travel to Shangri-la 前往香格里拉
October 31, 2024
Although we had spent two nights in Lijiang Old Town, ……
虽然我们在丽江古城住了两个晚上,。。。
October 31, 2024
Although we had spent two nights in Lijiang Old Town, we hadn’t had much chance to explore the area during daylight. Before heading to the train station, we took a quick morning stroll through the town’s charming streets, admiring the traditional Naxi architecture and lively atmosphere. The newly opened high-speed train to Shangri-La, in operation for just over a year, provided a smooth and efficient journey. After a little more than an hour, we arrived in Shangri-La, where our host picked us up and drove us to their B&B in Dukezong Old Town, about 15 minutes away.
The B&B was newly built and offered a stunning view of the Guishan Dafo Temple and the world’s largest prayer wheel standing beside it. Dukezong, with its millennia-long history, is one of the largest and best-preserved Tibetan towns. Its cobblestone streets and traditional Tibetan homes exuded a sense of authenticity and tranquility, feeling more genuine and less commercialized compared to Lijiang. For dinner, we went to a Tibetan restaurant where we sampled a variety of local dishes. While we enjoyed the flavorful cuisine, the Tibetan-style milk tea was an acquired taste we didn’t quite embrace.
Afterward, we wandered through Dukezong’s ancient streets to Guishan Dafo Temple. The sight of the illuminated temple at night was awe-inspiring. Joining the crowd, we helped push the massive prayer wheel, an activity that felt deeply spiritual and grounding.
Later, we made our way to Moonlight Square, where locals and visitors gathered to perform traditional Tibetan dances. The lively music and joyous atmosphere were infectious, making it a delightful way to end the evening.
2024年10月31日
虽然我们在丽江古城住了两个晚上，但白天没什么机会细细探索这座小镇。今天在前往火车站之前，我们抓紧时间在古城的街道上散步，感受清晨的静谧氛围和渐渐苏醒的热闹景象。传统的纳西建筑与街头小巷的生活气息相互交融，令人印象深刻。
刚开通一年多的丽江至香格里拉高铁，让这段旅程变得高效而舒适。乘坐一个多小时的高铁，我们抵达香格里拉站。民宿的主人早已在车站等候，开车将我们接到位于独克宗古城的民宿，车程约15分钟。
这家民宿是新建的，设施现代且整洁，房间的窗外景色尤为壮观——龟山大佛寺和旁边世界上最大的转经筒尽收眼底。拥有千年历史的独克宗古城，是保存最完好的藏族古镇之一。这里的石板路和传统的藏式民居散发着一股古朴与宁静的气息，比丽江更有一份独特的韵味和深度。
晚餐我们选择了一家藏餐馆，尝试了藏族烤肉和特色火锅，口感独特，令人满足。咸酥油茶的味道让我们稍感不习惯，或许是因为第一次尝试，未能完全适应它的浓郁风味。晚餐后，我们沿着古城的石板路漫步，前往龟山大佛寺。夜晚的寺庙在灯光下显得格外庄严而神秘。站在转经筒前，我们与其他游客一同推动这座巨大的转经筒，那种合力转动时的感觉既深刻又神圣。
随后，我们来到月光广场，那里正在举行藏族舞蹈表演，欢快的音乐和舞蹈吸引了众多游客和当地人围观。大家脸上的笑容和热情将这座高原小镇的夜晚点缀得更加温暖动人。
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 玉龙雪山
October 30, 2024
Early in the morning, we got up to watch the sunrise by the lake……
清晨起来去湖边看日出，。。。
October 30, 2024
Early in the morning, we got up to watch the sunrise by the lake. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate—thick clouds blanketed the sky, and the sun only peeked out briefly before retreating behind the clouds. Feeling a bit disappointed, we returned to the hotel, enjoyed a simple breakfast, and quickly set off on our next journey.
The journey from Lugu Lake to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain took approximately 4-5 hours, passing through Lijiang. Before entering the scenic area, our driver suggested stopping at one of the many shops selling oxygen cans and renting winter jackets. A shop assistant recommended two oxygen cans and two drinks per person as “necessary” preparations. Chenggang was firmly against spending money on something we didn’t need, but the ladies in our group felt a bit pressured by the general consensus, so we ended up buying total of two cans for ¥39 each, just in case.
Our cable car tickets were valid for the 2:30–3:00 PM time slot. After a quick lunch, we joined the queue for the shuttle bus to the cable car station. While on the bus, the sound of hissing gas filled the air as passengers started inhaling oxygen from their cans—despite still being surrounded by dense forests with abundant oxygen!
The gondola line took about an hour. The cable car carried us to the trailhead at 4,506 meters, well above the tree line. From there, we walked along a sturdy, well-constructed pathway to the observation deck at 4,680 meters. It was cold and very windy, but unsurprisingly, our oxygen levels were perfectly fine. We frequently used the oximeter we brought with us to monitor our oxygen saturation, which confirmed that the fears surrounding oxygen deprivation were highly exaggerated. The pervasive sale of oxygen cans at high-altitude tourist spots seems more like a commercial ploy designed to exploit fear for profit. In contrast, high-altitude regions in Europe and the United States rarely sell oxygen cans; instead, they promote natural acclimatization and scientifically managing altitude sickness.
Having recently spent two weeks in the Mont Blanc region, the scenery at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, while stunning, felt somewhat less remarkable by comparison. Even so, for the last two days, it was an enjoyable experience.
Fo dinner, we enjoyed authentic Yunnan-style “crossing the bridge noodles,” a hearty and flavorful dish that was the perfect conclusion to our day.
2024年10月30日
清晨起来去湖边看日出，云层太厚，太阳刚露了个脸就又躲进云里去了。回旅馆吃了个早餐就赶紧出发。
从泸沽湖到玉龙雪山的车程大约需要4-5个小时，中途经过丽江。在进入景区之前，司机建议我们为一会儿的登山备上氧气罐并在一家售卖氧气罐和租赁冬季外套的商店停留。店员热情地推荐我们每人准备两罐氧气和两瓶饮料，说这是“必备”的物品。成刚觉得言过其实，坚决反对买这些不必要的东西。但母女俩觉得大家都在买，我们也不妨备着，以防万一，但肯定不需要那么多。最后我们总共只买了两罐氧气，每罐39元。
我们的索道票是下午2:30到3:00的时段。吃过午餐后，我们排队乘坐接驳巴士前往缆车站。在巴士上，车厢内不断传来“嘶嘶”的声音，许多乘客已经开始使用氧气罐了——尽管我们还在山脚下，仍然处于氧气充足的森林地带！
缆车站的人密密麻麻，我们足足排了一个多小时。排队时周围的吸氧声更是此起彼伏，让我们觉得哭笑不得。缆车将我们带到了海拔4506米的步道起点，这里已经远远高于树线。从步道起点出发，我们沿着修建完善的栈道开始往上行走，最终到达海拔4680米的观景台。山顶寒风刺骨, 但并不意外的是，在往上爬的过程中我们频繁使用随身携带的指氧仪检测血氧饱和度，结果表明所谓的缺氧风险其实被大大夸张了。母女俩偶尔也试试随身携带的氧气罐，但并未感觉有什么区别。在高海拔景区大肆销售氧气罐，似乎更像是一种利用恐惧心理牟利的商业策略。相比之下，在欧洲和美国的高海拔地区，很少看到售卖氧气罐的现象，当地更提倡通过自然适应和科学方法来管理高原反应。因为我们最近刚在欧洲勃朗峰地区待了两周，与之相比，玉龙雪山的体验少了一些新鲜感。
整体而言，这次的二日游出行仍然很愉快。
回到丽江古城，再次入住之前的民宿。晚餐我们品尝了正宗的云南“过桥米线”，味道非常鲜美，十分地道。夜幕下的古城很漂亮，而城内不计其数的餐厅，酒吧及各种娱乐场所也让古城显得格外热闹。
Lugu Lake 泸沽湖
October 29, 2024
We hired a private driver through Ctrip.com for a two-day trip……
我们通过携程网预订了为期两天的泸沽湖和玉龙雪山包车游。。。
October 29, 2024
We hired a private driver through Ctrip.com for a two-day trip to Lugu Lake and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The typical itinerary starts with visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the first day and Lugu Lake on the second. However, the main cable car to the summit was closed for scheduled maintenance today but would reopen tomorrow. We asked the driver to adjust the schedule to visit Lugu Lake first, and he happily agreed.
The drive to Lugu Lake involved winding roads and ups and downs through the mountains. The scenery along the way was beautiful. We arrived at the Lugu Lake Scenic Area after noon and paid the entrance fee.
The driver took us to a traditional restaurant to try steamed fish. The food was excellent, though the restaurant’s facilities were a bit outdated.
After lunch, the driver drove us around the lake, stopping at several spots for photos. The lake was picturesque, but it didn’t leave a particularly strong impression on us. While the Mosuo people, often referred to as the “Kingdom of Women,” inhabit this area, we didn’t notice any significant cultural differences during our visit. The driver had arranged for us to visit a Mosuo museum, but the staff required a promise to purchase their jewelry instead of paying a standard entry fee. This odd request felt overly commercialized and diminished the cultural significance of the experience for us. We didn’t go to the museum.
Our B&B was a popular spot featured frequently on social media. Both the lobby and rooftop were beautifully set up for photo opportunities, attracting many visitors.
After booking this trip, we were informed that we needed to secure cable car tickets for the next day’s visit to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain at exactly 8 p.m. These tickets were in high demand, and without them, we wouldn’t be able to access the mountain. We had entered all the required information in advance and clicked the booking button right at 8 p.m. However, within just a minute or two, all the tickets were sold out. We were deeply disappointed and frustrated at the thought of missing out on the mountain. But just as we informed the driver of our unlucky situation, our daughter noticed three tickets had reappeared online. She quickly snagged them, and we were overjoyed to have secured our tickets. We ended the day with excitement and relief, looking forward to tomorrow’s adventure at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
2024年10月29日
我们通过携程网预订了为期两天的泸沽湖和玉龙雪山包车游。按照常规行程，第一天通常安排游览玉龙雪山，第二天游泸沽湖。然而，由于今天通往玉龙雪山主峰的索道因例行维护暂停开放，需等到明天才恢复运行。我们与司机商量后决定调整行程，先游览泸沽湖，他欣然同意了调整。
前往泸沽湖的路途蜿蜒曲折，沿途山路起伏，虽行车时间较长，但风景极为秀丽，青山绿水令人陶醉。中午过后，我们到达泸沽湖景区，购买门票进入。司机推荐了一家传统餐馆，让我们品尝摩梭族特色的汽蒸鱼。鱼的味道十分鲜美，但餐馆的设施略显陈旧，服务也有待改进。
午餐后，司机载我们环湖游览，在多个景点停下拍照。走婚桥，草海等等，我们都来个到此一游。包车的好处是可以按照自己的意愿选择景点及停留的时间。泸沽湖的湖面宁静而清澈，倒映着蓝天白云。景色虽美，但或许是因为期待过高，并未给我们留下特别深刻的印象。泸沽湖是摩梭族的聚居地，被誉为“女儿国”，但我们未能从旅途中感受到浓厚的文化氛围。司机还联系了一家摩梭博物馆，原本想让我们参观，但对方要求我们必须承诺购买他们的首饰，而不是支付正常的门票费用。我们认为这种要求过于商业化，令人反感，因此放弃了参观。
当天入住的民宿是一个社交媒体上非常热门的网红打卡地。民宿就在湖边，无论是大厅还是屋顶，都经过精心布置，充满了适合拍照的特色场景，吸引了不少游客驻足拍照。
晚餐去了一家网上评价不错的餐馆，口味，环境和服务都非常满意。
在预订此次行程时，我们了解到需要在晚上8点准时抢购第二天前往玉龙雪山的索道票。索道票非常紧俏，没有票就无法进入雪山核心区域。为了确保顺利登山，我们提前录入了所有必要信息，并在晚上8点整准时点击抢票。然而，仅仅一两分钟，数千张门票就被抢光。看到这一结果，我们倍感失望和沮丧。不上索道此次玉龙雪山之行也就没什么意义了。然而，就在我们向司机诉说这一遗憾时，女儿突然发现系统中又跳出了三张余票，她迅速抢下了票。确认成功后，我们低落的情绪也瞬间转为欣喜，对第二天的玉龙雪山之旅充满了期待。
Travel to Lijiang 前往丽江
October 28, 2024
Before heading to Lijiang,……
今天在前往丽江之前，。。。
October 28, 2024
Before heading to Lijiang, we visited the 斗南 Flower Market in Kunming. The market was stunning, with a vast selection of various flowers. Inspired, we decided to send a package of flowers to our parents in Shanghai. We purchased two types of flowers but were shocked to discover that we couldn’t mail them due to restrictions related to the ongoing Shanghai export exhibitions. Left with no choice, we returned the flowers to the vendors and paid a small fee for the return.
Later, we boarded the high-speed train from Kunming to Lijiang, which took about three hours. Since our rental was located inside Lijiang Old Town, our host met us at the town gate and transported our luggage on a scooter, which was quite convenient given the old town’s layout.
For dinner, we enjoyed a wild mushroom hot pot with grilled beef on the side. The meal came with a unique precaution: we had to wait 15 minutes for the wild mushrooms to be fully cooked, and a small sample of the soup was taken for safety records. Once ready, the flavors were incredible.
After dinner, we visited the town square to watch the local traditional dance performance, but the area was overcrowded and felt disorganized. Deciding it wasn’t worth the hassle, we returned to our rental to relax and unwind for the evening.
2024年10月28日
今天在前往丽江之前，我们先去了昆明的斗南花卉市场。这里鲜花种类繁多，色彩绚丽，令人目不暇接。我们想给父母寄一盒鲜花作为礼物。我们精心挑选了两种鲜花，却在邮寄时被告知因为即将进行的上海进博会，无法将鲜花寄往上海。无奈之下，我们只好将鲜花退回给商家，并支付了一点退货费用。
从昆明到丽江的高铁，全程大约三小时。由于我们的住宿位于丽江古城内，出租车不能进，而高低不平的街面行李箱无法拖着走。房东在古城入口处接我们，并用电动三轮车将行李运送到住处。小三轮在古城狭窄的街道中显得尤为方便。
我们的民宿闹中取静，现代化的设施和古典民宿相结合，很雅致。老板娘态度非常好，办理入住手续时又是鲜花饼，又是热茶，很暖心。
入住后我们赶紧前往古城的四方街广场观看当地的传统篝火舞蹈表演。然而，广场人头攒动，显得有些混乱，不够尽兴。
晚餐我们品尝了野生菌火锅，还搭配了烤牛肉。这顿饭有一道特别的程序：因为有些野生菌是有毒性的，桌上放了计时⌛️器，野生菌需要等待20分钟煮熟，服务员还取了一小勺汤样留存备案。等到野生菌完全煮好后，我们才开吃，同时也慢慢放入其它食材。各种菌子味道鲜美无比，令人回味。烤肉也相当不错，照片都来不及拍便一扫而光。
Lao-China Railway 中老铁路
October 27, 2024
We embarked on a journey from Luang Prabang to Kunming,……
我们从老挝琅勃拉邦乘坐中老铁路（LCR）前往中国昆明,。。。
October 27, 2024
We embarked on a journey from Luang Prabang to Kunming, China, via the Lao-China Railway (LCR). This travel route was carefully planned as an opportunity to try a unique means of crossing the border into China. The idea of experiencing this relatively new railway was intriguing, and we looked forward to the adventure.
Before heading to the train station, we witnessed the almsgiving ceremony once more. On our way back, we stopped at the morning market and indulged in a fried cake reminiscent of a childhood treat—a delightful way to start the day.
The drive to the train station, however, was less pleasant. The road was extremely bumpy, as though the train station had been built without considering infrastructure upgrades for access. Upon arrival, our driver dropped us off at the ground-level parking lot. With the elevators and escalators out of service, we had no choice but to lug our bags up the stairs—a less-than-ideal beginning to our railway experience, especially for a station only a few years old.
The train itself, operated by the Yunnan Railway Company, was fully booked. We traveled in a first-class cabin predominantly filled with foreigners carrying bulky luggage that cluttered the hallways. The remaining seats of other coaches were occupied by Chinese tourists. The total journey time was approximately seven hours, including one hour border procedures at both the Laos and China checkpoints.
The border crossing was a tedious process. At the Laos checkpoint, we had to disembark with all our belongings, exit the station, and pass through Laos customs and immigration before re-boarding. Shortly after, the train stopped at the Chinese border station, where we repeated the process. Chinese customs, however, were significantly slower, taking about 40 minutes. By the time we cleared the formalities, we were the last passengers to rejoin the train. While the train ride itself was smooth and enjoyable, the inefficient border procedures made the experience far from seamless. This was enough to dissuade us from attempting another cross-border train journey in Asia.
Arriving in Kunming, however, made up for the challenges of the day. The city’s clean streets and pleasant atmosphere left us with an excellent first impression, making us eager to explore its charm.
2024年10月27日
我们从老挝琅勃拉邦乘坐中老铁路（LCR）前往中国昆明，旨在尝试一种独特的跨境方式。中老铁路作为一条较新的线路让人颇感好奇，我们对这次体验充满期待。
出发前，我们再次观看了清晨的布施仪式。和昨天一样，僧侣们的钵盆迅速装满米饭，然后就倾倒进街边设置的垃圾桶中，这一幕真的让人不忍心。等到仪式结束我们才看到这些食物并未被浪费，而是由组织者和小贩重新销售，这才让我们稍稍宽慰了一些。然而，这种对神圣传统的过度商业化，整个仪式像是一场为游客安排的表演，而非真正的宗教实践让人感到心情沉重，不禁思索：在这个受旅游业深刻影响的时代，是否还有未被改变的纯粹传统？
返回途中，我们在早市停留，品尝了一种油炸小点心，味道让人想起童年的记忆。
前往火车站的路途并不那么顺利。路面颠簸不平，仿佛火车站修建时并没有考虑道路的升级。到达后，司机将我们放在地面停车场。由于电梯和自动扶梯都无法使用，我们不得不提着行李爬楼梯——对于一个才启用几年的车站来说，这是一次不尽如人意的开始。
高铁由云南铁路公司运营，我们乘坐的是一等座车厢，车厢满员。我们因为不是起点站上车，又正好有一组老挝学生去中国，已经几乎包了我们整节车厢，我们上车时行李架早已被大量行李占满，大件行李将过道都堵得水泄不通，感觉不是很舒适。从琅勃拉邦到昆明的总旅程时间约为七小时，其中包括在老挝和中国边境各一个小时的通关手续。
边境通关过程既繁琐又耗时。在老挝边检站，我们需要携带全部行李下车，经过老挝的海关，办完出境手续后再返回列车。上车不久列车抵达中国边检站，我们再次重复这一过程。然而，中国的通关效率更低，当我们完成入境手续返回列车时，已经是最后一批乘客。尽管列车运行平稳，服务也还不错，但边境通关的低效让整个体验远非无缝顺畅。这次经历也让我们以后不太愿意再尝试亚洲的跨境列车了。
到达昆明之后，等办完酒店入住手续就已经是晚餐时间了。去了前台推荐的一家本地餐厅，终于吃上了美味地道的中国菜，好好地享受了一下。
昆明的美丽弥补了旅途中的种种不如意。整洁的街道和宜人的氛围给我们留下了极好的第一印象，让人迫不及待地想探索它的魅力。
Luang Prabang, Lao 琅勃拉邦
October 26, 2024
Chenggang was abruptly awakened at 4:30 AM by……
清晨4点半，被主街上传来的喧闹音乐声惊醒。。。
October 26, 2024
Chenggang was abruptly awakened at 4:30 AM by loud music from the main street. Curious, Chenggang got up to investigate and discovered that an annual running race was scheduled to start at 5:30 AM—a surprisingly early time for such an event. As he wandered the streets, he noticed an endless line of empty small stools neatly arranged along the sidewalks. Vendors were persistently trying to sell him sticky rice and candy, which seemed odd at first.
It soon became clear that these offerings were for the alms-giving ceremony, a sacred tradition deeply woven into Luang Prabang’s culture for centuries.
By around 6:00 AM, the monks began emerging from the temples and nearly every stool along the street was occupied not by locals but by tourists—approximately 90% of them Chinese. Initially moved by what appeared to be a spiritual exchange, Chenggang soon felt disheartened as the ceremony unfolded. The monks, their alms bags and bowls quickly filled, dumped sticky rice and candies into large containers set along the street.
At first, the sight of food being discarded deeply upset him. Later, he learned that the collected food wasn’t wasted but was instead resold by organizers and vendors, a revelation that brought some solace. Still, the over-commercialization of such a sacred tradition left Chenggang with a heavy heart. The ceremony felt more like a staged performance than a genuine spiritual practice. As he walked back, he reflected on whether any truly authentic traditions remained in a world increasingly shaped by tourism.
Before returning to our B&B, we climbed Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of the city. Back at the B&B, the host had prepared a simple but satisfying breakfast. Outside, a bustling morning market offered an array of goods, from fresh seafood to vibrant produce, immersing us in the local culture.
Our day had only just begun as we joined a guided trip to explore a Hmong village, Kuang Si Waterfalls, and Pak Ou Caves.
At Kuang Si Waterfalls, we were enchanted by the multi-tiered cascades and turquoise pools. Though we had brought swimsuits, we chose not to swim, opting instead to hike up to the summit. There, we enjoyed a tranquil moment at the café, surrounded by breathtaking views.
Lunch was served in a serene garden café, where the simple, delicious meal was made even more special by the opportunity to feed bananas to an elephant. Playing with this gentle giant was a highlight of the day.
After lunch, we boarded a boat to visit Pak Ou Caves, limestone grottoes filled with thousands of Buddha statues. While the caves were intriguing, a brief stop at a whiskey factory afterward felt like a waste of time, as neither of us are alcohol drinkers.
The best part of the tour came as we cruised back to the city along the Mekong River. The setting sun bathed the landscape in golden hues, and we witnessed one of the most breathtaking sunsets of our travels.
Later, we wandered through the night market for dinner, but the food and atmosphere fell short of expectations, ending the day on a less satisfying note. Despite this, the mix of awe-inspiring landscapes and thought-provoking cultural experiences made for an unforgettable day in Luang Prabang.
2024年10月26日
清晨4点半，被主街上传来的喧闹音乐声惊醒。带着好奇心，成刚出去一探究竟，发现一场年度跑步比赛计划在5点半开始，有点早了。在街上漫步时，注意到人行道旁整齐排列着一排排小板凳，空无一人。而街边的小贩则不停地向他推销糯米饭和糖果，这一切起初显得有些奇怪。但很快明白了这些是为僧侣布施仪式所准备的。这是一项深深植根于琅勃拉邦文化、延续了几个世纪的神圣传统。
大约6点钟，僧侣们排着队从寺庙中陆续走出来，此时街道上的每一张板凳几乎都被游客占据——其中约90%是中国游客。坐在板凳上的施主们会拿一团煮好的糯米饭和几包糖果零食放在每一位从面前走过的僧侣的小钵盆和布施包中。起初成刚被这场景所打动，但不一会儿，僧侣们的钵盆迅速装满米饭，眼看着他们将米饭和糖果倾倒进街边设置的看似像垃圾桶的大容器中，觉得食物被弃置，太浪费了，他很失望也很难过。
在返回民宿前，我们爬上了普西山（Mount Phousi），俯瞰整个城市的全景。回到民宿后，主人为我们准备了一份简单却令人满意的早餐。民宿门外的街道上，一个热闹的早市正在进行，从海鲜到新鲜农产品，应有尽有，让我们沉浸在当地的生活氛围中。
今天我们参加了导览一日游，参观苗族村庄、光西瀑布（Kuang Si Waterfalls）和帕乌洞（Pak Ou Caves）。
光西瀑布以其层叠的瀑布和湛蓝的水池让我们赞叹不已。游客绝大部分都来自中国。尽管我们带了泳衣，却选择不下水，而是攀登到瀑布的顶端。在山顶的咖啡馆里，被周围的美景所环绕，我们享受了片刻宁静。
看完苗寨爬完山，午餐安排在一个宁静的花园餐厅。食物简单却美味，而更特别的是，我们有机会给花园里的大象喂香蕉。与这只温顺的大象互动是这一天中最令人愉快的经历之一。
午餐后，我们乘船前往帕乌洞，这是一座石灰岩洞穴，里面摆满了数千尊佛像。虽然洞穴颇具吸引力，但随后参观的一家威士忌工厂对我们来说毫无意义，因为我们都不喝酒。
这次行程中最美妙的部分是在乘船沿湄公河返回城市时，夕阳将沿岸的景色笼罩在金色的余晖中，我们目睹了旅途中最壮丽的日落之一。
回到市区后，我们再次去了夜市寻找晚餐。然而，夜市的食物和氛围都让人感到失望。尽管如此，这一天融合了震撼心灵的自然景观和引人深思的文化体验，仍然让我们对琅勃拉邦格外难忘。
Floating Village 浮村
October 25, 2024
During our research on the Tonlé Sap Lake area,……
在做暹粒(Siem Reap)旅游攻略时，。。。
October 25, 2024
During our research on the Tonlé Sap Lake area, we learned about several floating villages, some reportedly occupied by stateless Vietnamese refugees. Intrigued by this fascinating history, we decided to visit one of the floating villages and also see a nearby temple before heading to the airport. We arranged the trip with Mr. Nab, the taxi driver who had picked us up from the airport, for a total of $55.
Mr. Nab met us at our hotel at 8 AM and drove us to Kampong Phluk, a floating village primarily inhabited by Cambodians. Upon arrival, we boarded a large tourist boat, paying $20 each for the trip. Surprisingly, we were the only passengers on the boat, which sailed along the channel and stopped at a tourist center. Along the way, we observed the unique architecture of the village, with stilted homes raised 6 to 9 meters above the ground to adapt to the lake’s drastic water level changes between the rainy and dry seasons. Along the shore, we saw numerous idle tour boats, seemingly waiting for more visitors.
Partway through the ride, a young boy, who appeared to be the boat driver’s son, joined us on board. We later disembarked at a floating rest area, which offered food for purchase and paddle boat rides to explore the mangroves and nearby villages. We opted not to take the paddle boat tour and returned to our boat instead.
To our surprise, rather than heading back to the starting point, the boat sailed to the middle of the lake. The driver informed us she needed to wait for five minutes, though she didn’t explain why. Shortly after, a boat carrying snacks and drinks approached us. We weren’t interested in buying anything, but an older woman on the snack boat played a familiar pity trick, claiming the young boy was hungry and needed a snack. Feeling pressured, we paid $5 for a bag of potato chips for the boy.
After our visit to the floating village, Mr. Nab drove us to Beng Mealea, a temple near the airport. This lesser-known site had far fewer tourists than Angkor Wat and had not been restored, giving it a raw and ancient charm. We wandered through the partially collapsed structures, marveling at the overgrown trees and vines reclaiming the temple.
Finally, we headed to the airport, ready for our next adventure. Our time in Cambodia had been extraordinary. Siem Reap and Angkor Wat offered a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, and we highly recommend visiting to anyone curious about Cambodia’s rich heritage.
We arrived at Luang Prabang Airport after dark and paid a fixed taxi fare at the airport counter. Since our B&B was located near the city center and close to the night market, where cars are not allowed to enter, the driver dropped us off on the outskirts of the market. From there, we walked through the bustling market to reach our B&B.
After dropping off our luggage and settling in, we ventured back into the market in search of something delicious to eat. However, the market was overly crowded, and the food stalls didn’t seem very appealing to us. Instead, we opted for a nearby restaurant that primarily catered to foreigners. The food was decent, and it gave us our first taste of Laotian cuisine—a pleasant introduction to the flavors of Lao.
2024年10月25日
在做暹粒(Siem Reap)旅游攻略时，我们了解到在洞里萨湖 (Tonlé Sap Lake)边有几个浮村，其中居住着一些无国籍的越南难民。我们决定参观一个浮村，并顺便去机场附近的一座寺庙。我们请前几天刚飞到暹粒机场时接我们的出租车司机纳布先生 (Mr. Nab) 为我们安排了这次行程，总费用55美元。
早上8点，纳布先生来到酒店接我们，带我们前往主要由柬埔寨人居住的浮村——磅通普鲁克 (Kampong Phluk)。到达后，我们每人支付了20美元的游船票后，登上了一艘小旅游船，就我们三人。在岸边我们注意到许多停泊的旅游船，但大多空无一人，显然游客并不多。沿途我们看到浮村中独特的高脚房屋，这些房屋高达6至9米，以适应雨季和旱季水位的巨大变化。
行程中，一名小男孩登上了我们的船，看起来可能是船夫的儿子。我们在一个漂浮的休息区下船，这里有食物出售，并提供小舟服务，游客可以划船参观红树林和其他村落。我们选择不参加小舟游览，而是直接返回了我们的船。
令人意外的是，船没有返回出发点，而是驶向了湖中央。当浮村从我们眼前彻底消失时船停了下来，船夫告诉我们需要等待五分钟，但并未解释原因。不久，一艘装满零食和饮料的小船靠近了我们。虽然我们没有任何购买的意愿，但零食船上的老妇人用一个常见的伎俩博取同情，说小男孩饿了，给他买点吃的东西吧。于心不忍，我们让小男孩自己挑喜欢的，最终花了5美元给他买了一袋薯片。这时也终于明白船停湖中央的原因了。
参观完浮村后，纳布先生又带我们去了机场附近的崩密列 (Beng Mealea)，一座鲜为人知的寺庙。与吴哥窟相比，这里的游客非常少，而且寺庙尚未修复，呈现出一种原始的古老魅力。我们漫步在部分坍塌的建筑间，感叹树木和藤蔓对寺庙的“接管”，让人仿佛置身于自然与历史交织的画卷中。
最终，我们前往机场，准备开启下一段旅程。暹粒 (Siem Reap) 和 吴哥窟 (Angkor Wat) 提供了丰富的文化和历史体验。我们强烈推荐这些地方给任何对柬埔寨文化和历史感兴趣的人。这是一段令人难忘的旅程。
Angkor Wat 小吴哥
October 24, 2024
Our second day exploring Angkor Wat began early,……
我们吴哥窟之旅的第二天从凌晨4点的早起开始。。。
October 24, 2024
The tour price didn’t include the $62 three-day entrance fee to Angkor Archaeological Park. Our second day exploring Angkor Wat began early, with wake-up at 4 AM. By 5 AM, we arrived at Angkor Wat with other 9 tourists for the sunrise. Along with many others, we gathered at the edge of the pond in front of the temple, standing on waterlogged ground due to the previous night’s rain. While we had high expectations, the sunrise was less striking than anticipated, as the sun rose slightly off-center from the temple.
Sunrise At Angkor Wat 吴哥窟的日出
As the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and later converted into a Buddhist site, its intricate carvings depicting ancient Hindu epics were both awe-inspiring and overwhelming in their scale and detail. Despite the limited time, we marveled at the craftsmanship, wishing we could linger longer to absorb its full beauty.
Angkor Wat 吴哥窟
Our next stop was Ta Prohm, a temple left largely unrestored to retain its “jungle temple” atmosphere. Massive spung trees and their intertwined roots enveloped the ancient stone structures, creating a surreal and hauntingly beautiful scene. The temple’s fame as a filming location for Tomb Raider added to its mystique, though we hadn’t seen the movie.
Ta Prohm 塔普伦寺
The final destination of our tour was Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Entering through its monumental gates, flanked by rows of serene faces carved into stone, we were immediately struck by the city’s grandeur. Climbing a few steps to a viewpoint, we admired a detailed Buddha face etched into the side of the structure. The intricate carvings of everyday Khmer life were fascinating, though time constraints once again left us yearning to explore more.
Angkor Thom 吴哥城
The tour deepened our appreciation for Cambodia’s rich history and the architectural and spiritual achievements of the Khmer Empire.
In the afternoon, we returned to the hotel for a short rest before venturing out again. That evening, a tuk-tuk driver took us to a dinner show featuring a buffet of both Cambodian and Western dishes. The highlight was the graceful performances of traditional Cambodian dance, a perfect way to end the day.
Angkor Wat exceeded our expectations, and Siem Reap proved to be a remarkably tourist-friendly city where English and US dollars are widely used. The experience was unforgettable, leaving us in awe of Cambodia’s cultural heritage.
2024年10月24日
这次二日游的费用只是导游和交通运输，并不包括 吴哥考古公园 (Angkor Archaeological Park) 为期三天的门票，价格为每人62美元。我们提前在网上买好票，每到一个寺庙手机扫一下就行。我们吴哥窟之旅的第二天从凌晨4点的早起开始。还是昨天的司机和导游，除了昨天我们五位游客，今天又多了另外六位。早上5点，我们到达著名的吴哥窟 (Angkor Wat)，准备观赏日出。天还没亮，和许多其他游客一样，我们聚集在寺庙前的池塘边。由于昨晚的降雨，地面湿滑，我们脚踩在积水中，寻找最佳位置。尽管我们满怀期待，但日出的景象却没有想象中壮观。一是天气的原因，二是太阳升起的位置略微偏离了寺庙的正中心。
作为世界上最大的宗教建筑，吴哥窟是高棉帝国辉煌成就的象征。它最初供奉印度教主神毗湿奴 (Vishnu)，后来被改为佛教寺庙。寺庙上雕刻的古印度史诗画面不仅令人叹为观止，而且因其规模和细节之精美让人感到震撼。尽管时间有限，我们仍然被这些工艺品深深吸引，真希望能停留更久，细细品味其精妙之处。
接下来，我们来到 塔普伦寺 (Ta Prohm Temple)。这座寺庙几乎保持原貌，没有经过太多修复，以展现其独特的“丛林寺庙”氛围。巨大的榕树和其盘根错节的树根与古老的石头建筑交织在一起，形成一种超现实且令人叹为观止的奇景。这座寺庙因电影《古墓丽影 (Tomb Raider)》的取景地而闻名，我们还未看过这部电影。
离开塔普伦寺前往胜利门(Victory Gate)。以大象的躯体为支撑，门顶上是特有的高棉四面佛。导游让我们从门旁边的小坡爬上去，攀爬几级台阶到达一个观景点，我们得以更清晰地欣赏雕刻在建筑侧面的佛面，也能看到门后面的第四个佛面。此门通往我们此次行程最后一站的吴哥城 (Angkor Thom)，这是高棉帝国的最后一座首都。古都城内寺庙无数，以巴戎寺（Bayon Temple)为中心，其壮丽景象立即让我们感到震撼。穿行在寺庙迷宫般的回廊中，看着回廊璧上雕刻着大量的精美浮雕，听着导游讲解那些雕刻所展现的神话故事和高棉日常生活场景让我们着迷。只可惜时间有限，我们二天的吴哥窟之旅不得不在遗憾中结束。
我们返回酒店稍作休息后再次出发。当晚，一位TukTuk车司机按时来到酒店载我们前往一场包含柬埔寨和西式菜品的自助晚餐秀。传统柬埔寨舞蹈优雅的表演成为整场晚宴的亮点，也为我们的柬埔寨暹粒行画上了完美的句号。
吴哥窟完全没有让我们失望，而 暹粒 (Siem Reap) 作为一座非常适合游客的城市，英语和美元在这里被广泛使用。此次经历令人难忘，让我们对柬埔寨的文化遗产充满敬畏之情。
“Big circle” of Angkor Wat 大吴哥
October 23, 2024
Today, we began a two-day small group tour of Angkor Wat,……
今天，我们开启了为期两天的小团吴哥窟之旅，。。。
October 23, 2024
Today, we began a two-day small group tour of Angkor Wat, costing $45 per person. On the first day, only five of us joined the tour to visit four remarkable temples: Pre Rup, Neak Poan, Preah Khan, and Banteay Srei, collectively known as the “large circuit” of Angkor Wat. Each temple captivated us with its grandeur and intricate beauty, and the well-regulated and organized site ensured a seamless and pleasant experience.
Pre Rup 比粒寺
Neak Poan 涅盘宫
Preah Khan 圣剑寺
Banteay Srei 女王宫
Our knowledgeable guide enriched the visit with detailed explanations, though the sheer volume of information made it difficult to retain everything. These temples, once part of the ancient Khmer Empire’s capital, showcased a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Their relatively recent rediscovery lent them an authentic charm that stood out from other ancient structures we’ve encountered.
The hot and humid weather was a challenge, but our friendly driver made it bearable. After each stop, he greeted us at the van door with cold water and refreshing eucalyptus-scented towels. Traveling between sites in an air-conditioned van provided much-needed comfort.
On the way back to the city, we stopped at a landmine museum, a sobering reminder of Cambodia’s modern dark history. We ended the day with a lively dinner at Pub Street, wrapping up an unforgettable and deeply meaningful experience.
2024年10月23日
今天，我们开启了为期两天的小团吴哥窟之旅，费用为每人45美元。第一天，我们一共五位游客一同参观了四座令人惊叹的寺庙：比粒寺（Pre Rup Temple), 涅盘宫(Neak Pean),圣剑寺 (Preah Khan Temple) 和女王宫(Banteay Srei Temple), 这些寺庙组成了大吴哥的“外圈”。每座寺庙都以其壮丽的规模和精美的细节让我们惊叹不已，而景区的良好管理也让整个体验十分顺畅愉快。
我们的导游知识渊博，为我们详细讲解了每座寺庙的历史与背景，尽管信息量庞大，难以全部记住。这些寺庙曾是高棉帝国古都的一部分，展示了印度教与佛教元素的和谐融合。它们在近代才被重新发现，因此更显示出其真实与独特，与我们过去见过的其他古代建筑有很大的不同。
炎热潮湿的天气是一种挑战，但我们的好司机每次结束一处景点的参观后，他都会在车门旁递给我们冰凉的矿泉水和带有桉树香味的冷毛巾，再加上车内的空调更是让我们倍感舒适，令行程更加愉快。
返回市区途中，我们参观了地雷博物馆。馆很小却是一段令人警醒的经历，也提醒我们关注柬埔寨近代的悲惨历史。
一天繁忙的行程最终以来到热闹的酒吧街享用晚餐而告一段落。
Travel to Siem Reap 前往暹粒的一天
October 22, 2024
Today marked another exciting and seamless day of travel……
今天, 我们搭乘亚洲航空飞往柬埔寨的暹粒。。。
October 22, 2024
Today marked another exciting and seamless day of travel as we made our way to Siem Reap, Cambodia with AirAsia. Before boarding, we enjoyed a relaxing and rejuvenating break in the airport lounge, thanks to our Priority Pass memberships. The lounge experience was a refreshing interlude, offering delicious and satisfying complimentary food and, best of all, a soothing and invigorating Thai massage that melted away any lingering travel fatigue. Feeling both well-fed and rejuvenated, we were ready to embrace our next adventure in Siem Reap.
We arrived at the modern and pristine Siem Reap airport, which was surprisingly quiet and nearly deserted, with our plane being the only one on the tarmac. We paid $30 for a taxi to the city center, and it was intriguing to see so many taxi drivers waiting in the parking lot, despite the lack of passengers. Once in the taxi, our driver shared insights about the city’s struggles after COVID. He explained how Chinese tourists, who had been the number-one visitors before the pandemic, dropped to fifth place due to negative portrayals on TikTok and other social media platforms. The drive along the smooth and scenic highway from the airport was pleasant, flanked by lush green rice fields, though traffic was notably sparse. Along the way, the driver reiterated the city’s challenge of not attracting enough visitors to Angkor Wat, which left us reflecting on the impact of the pandemic on global tourism.
After settling into our hotel, we ventured out to enjoy our first Cambodian meal. As soon as we stepped outside, we were approached by a friendly TukTuk driver, who initially asked for $4 to take us to the restaurant. After some friendly negotiation, we agreed on $2. The ride in the colorful and surprisingly comfortable electric TukTuk turned out to be a delightful and unique experience, something we were initially hesitant to try but quickly grew to enjoy.
Dinner was decent and reasonably priced, providing a simple but satisfying introduction to Cambodian cuisine. Afterward, we strolled to the night market and Pub Street, where we felt completely safe and relaxed wandering through the city center. (Seeing pub street made it obvious that Siem reap and pub street was a tourist city.)
2024年10月22日
今天, 我们搭乘亚洲航空飞往柬埔寨的暹粒, 是一次令人期待且顺利的旅行日，。在登机之前，我们凭借 Priority Pass 会员去了机场休息室。机场休息室的体验是一段令人耳目一新的间歇，提供了美味可口的免费餐点，更棒的是一场舒缓且振奋身心的泰式按摩，消除了旅途中的疲惫。在充分享受美食与放松后，我们焕然一新，满怀期待地迎接在暹粒的下一段令人期待的旅程。
抵达暹粒时，我们被这座现代化且干净的机场所吸引。令人惊讶的是，机场非常安静，停机坪上只有我们的飞机。我们支付了30美元乘坐出租车前往市中心。让人好奇的是，尽管机场几乎没有其他乘客，但停车场里却有许多出租车司机在等待。上车后，司机与我们聊起了疫情后的城市现状。他提到，在疫情之前，中国游客是暹粒的主要游客，但由于抖音等社交媒体上的负面评价，现在中国游客数量急剧下降，排到了第五位。沿着平坦且风景优美的机场公路前行，道路两旁是郁郁葱葱的稻田，景色怡人，但车流稀少。司机一路上反复提到吴哥窟缺乏游客的挑战，让我们深刻感受到疫情对全球旅游业的冲击。
到达酒店安顿好后，我们出门去享用第一顿柬埔寨美食。刚出酒店，一位热情的嘟嘟车司机便主动上前搭话，原本报价4美元送我们去餐馆，但经过一番友好的讨价还价后，我们以2美元成交。这辆色彩斑斓且意外舒适的电动嘟嘟车为我们带来了一段别开生面的体验，原本有些犹豫的我们很快便爱上了这种独特的交通方式。
晚餐简单但令人满意，为我们初次品尝柬埔寨菜肴开了一个好头。饭后，我们漫步前往夜市和酒吧街，完全放松地徜徉于市中心。看到热闹的酒吧街，暹粒作为一座以旅游为主的城市特色显而易见。这里的氛围轻松又安全，为我们的第一天画上了圆满的句号。
Maeklong Railway Market 美功铁道市场
October 21, 2024
We embarked on an exciting 5-hour tour of Bangkok’s iconic Maeklong Railway Market……
这一天，我们参加了五小时的精彩游览。。。
October 21, 2024
We embarked on an exciting 5-hour tour of Bangkok’s iconic Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. The day started early as we were picked up from our hotel and driven to a small train station outside the city. Soon, we boarded an old commuter train heading straight for the heart of Maeklong Railway Market. The living conditions along the track were heartbreaking.
As the train chugged closer, Maeklong’s unique charm began to unfold. Vendors had set up their stalls right along—and even over—the railway tracks, displaying a vibrant array of goods. When the train approached, a whirlwind of activity followed: vendors hurriedly packed away their wares, clearing the tracks with choreographed precision. Spectators lined both sides, phones raised to capture this fascinating spectacle. From our vantage point on the train, we joined in, taking photos and soaking in the buzzing energy. Chenggang added a touch of fun by leaning out the window to high-five onlookers along the way.
Once we alighted, the roles reversed, and we became the market visitors. Walking along the tracks, we browsed the colorful stalls. Just as Chenggang bought a fresh coconut from a shouting aunt, we heard the unmistakable sound of an approaching train. Everyone quickly stepped aside, and the train passed by us with only inches to spare. The experience was surreal—like stepping into a movie, thrilling, unforgettable, and completely unique.
Next, we headed to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. We climbed aboard a paddle boat to explore its bustling waterways. Boats brimming with food and souvenirs floated by, and vendors called out to attract customers. While it was fascinating to see, the market felt touristy and lacked the authenticity of a traditional local marketplace, leaving us slightly underwhelmed.
Back in Bangkok, we ended the day with a stop at a major shopping mall in the city center and Erawan Shrine before returning to our hotel. The day left us with vibrant memories of excitement, culture, and the colorful chaos of Bangkok’s markets.
2024年10月21日
这一天，我们参加了五小时的精彩游览，目的地是曼谷著名的美功铁道市场和丹嫩沙多水上市场。清晨，我们从酒店出发，驱车前往市郊的一座小火车站。不久后，我们登上一列古老的通勤火车，驶向美功铁道市场的中心。
随着火车逐渐驶近，美功市场的独特魅力开始展现。摊位紧贴轨道甚至覆盖在铁轨之上，各种商品琳琅满目，色彩斑斓。当火车接近时，摊贩们迅速收拾货物，为火车让路，场面犹如一场井然有序的表演。两侧的游客纷纷举起手机记录这一奇观。我们坐在火车上，也参与到这热闹非凡的场景中，拍下照片，感受市场的独特氛围。成刚更是调皮地探出窗外，与轨道旁的路人击掌互动，为旅程增添了不少乐趣。
下车后，我们化身为市场的行人，沿着铁轨漫步，近距离感受市场的喧嚣与活力。就在成刚从一位“喊声响亮的阿姨”手中买到一颗新鲜椰子时，我们听到了火车驶来的声音。人群迅速退到铁轨两侧，火车呼啸而过，距离仅仅几厘米。整个过程既紧张又兴奋，犹如电影中的场景，让人久久难忘。
接着，我们前往丹嫩沙多水上市场，乘上一艘小船，开始探索这片热闹的水道。船只满载着食物和纪念品穿梭其中，小贩热情地招呼顾客。然而，与美功市场相比，这里显得更加商业化，缺少了传统市集的原汁原味，让人略感遗憾。尽管如此，在水道间穿行依然是一种别样的体验。
回到曼谷后，我们在市中心的一家大型购物商场停留，为这一天的旅程画上了句号。回程的路上，脑海中满是这一天的画面：铁轨上的刺激、市场的热闹与水道的繁忙，构成了一段充满活力与色彩的回忆。
The Grand Palace & Wat Arun 大皇宫和黎明寺
October 20, 2024
The Grand Palace is an absolute must-visit when in Bangkok……
大皇宫是曼谷必去的景点之一。。。
October 20, 2024
The Grand Palace is an absolute must-visit when in Bangkok. Although it once served as the official royal residence, the current king no longer lives or works there. Still, the palace remains one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks, with its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and gold accents. We were awestruck by the overwhelming beauty of the detailed buildings, lush gardens, and numerous temples, all within a relatively compact space. The design clearly wasn’t intended for comfort but to showcase the power and grandeur of the Thai monarchy.
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha within the palace complex is particularly famous. The Buddha statue, carved from a single piece of jade, is revered as Thailand’s most sacred image. Each season, the king personally changes the robes of the Buddha, a gesture that symbolizes the changing of the seasons. Photography is not allowed inside the temple, but we were able to use our long-lens camera to capture the majesty of the Buddha from the outside.
After visiting the Grand Palace, we hopped on a city ferry to cross the bustling Chao Phraya River on our way to Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. While it may not be as grand or ornate as the Grand Palace, it has its own unique charm. The architecture here is less colorful but still striking, with its towering central prang decorated with intricate porcelain tiles. The atmosphere was more laid-back compared to the grandeur of the palace, and we noticed many young visitors taking photos in traditional Thai costumes, adding a lively, modern touch to the ancient site.
After crossing back over the river, we stopped at a small Thai café on a street corner, which was popular with tourists. The dishes were simple, yet the food was delicious and satisfying.
Our adventure continued to the Wat Po.
Next we visited the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in Bangkok. With over 15,000 stalls, it’s a sprawling maze of shops selling everything from street food to clothing, art, and crafts. The clothing styles were trendy and the prices were reasonable, making it a great place to shop for unique items and souvenirs. Chenggang had his first of many mango sticky rices.
For dinner, we headed to Asiatique Riverfront, a lively night market and dining area by the river. The food was decent, and the view of the river, combined with the vibrant atmosphere, made it a nice place to relax after a busy day.
大皇宫和黎明寺
2024年10月20日
大皇宫是曼谷必去的景点之一。虽然它曾经是泰国国王的正式皇宫，但现任国王已不再居住或办公于此。然而，大皇宫依然是泰国最具代表性的地标之一，以其艳丽的色彩、精美的设计和金碧辉煌的装饰而闻名。我们被建筑的精致细节、郁郁葱葱的花园和众多寺庙所深深震撼。虽然大皇宫的设计显然不是为了舒适而建，但却完美展现了泰国皇室的威严与辉煌。
宫殿内的玉佛寺尤为著名。寺中供奉的玉佛像由一整块翡翠雕刻而成，是泰国最神圣的佛像之一。每逢季节更替，国王会亲自为玉佛更换袈裟，这一仪式象征着季节的交替。虽然寺内禁止拍照，但我们利用长焦镜头从外部捕捉到了玉佛的庄严之美。
参观完大皇宫后，我们搭乘城市渡轮穿越熙熙攘攘的湄南河，前往对岸的黎明寺（Wat Arun）。虽然黎明寺没有大皇宫那样金碧辉煌，但它有自己独特的魅力。寺内的建筑色彩相对朴素，但高耸的中央佛塔装饰着精美的瓷片，显得格外引人注目。相比大皇宫的壮丽，黎明寺的氛围更加悠闲，我们还看到许多年轻游客穿着传统泰国服饰拍照，为这座古老的寺庙增添了一份现代气息。
返回河对岸后，我们在街角的一家泰式小餐馆稍作停留。这家餐馆深受游客欢迎，虽然菜品简单，但味道鲜美，令人满意。
我们的旅程接着来到了卧佛寺（Wat Pho），随后前往曼谷最大的市场之一——乍都乍周末市场（Chatuchak Weekend Market）。这个市场拥有超过15,000个摊位，宛如一个巨大的迷宫，各种街头美食、服装、艺术品和手工艺品应有尽有。这里的服装时尚，价格合理，非常适合挑选独特的纪念品。成刚在这里第一次尝到了真正的芒果糯米饭，印象深刻。
晚餐时间，我们前往了湄南河边的Asiatique河滨夜市。这是一个热闹的夜市和餐饮区，尽管食物的味道中规中矩，但夜市热闹的氛围与河景相映成趣，为忙碌的一天画上了一个放松的句号。
Travel Day to Bangkok 前往曼谷
Oct 19, 2024
Today was a travel day……
今天早餐后我们去到了充满活力的小印度。。。
October 19, 2024
Today was a travel day. Before heading to the airport, we took the subway to Tekka Centre, accompanied by the cheerful “Happy Happy” announcements on the train, to explore vibrant Little India. Indian culture plays a significant role in Singapore’s diversity, and Little India was bustling with life, its streets adorned with colorful ribbons swaying in the breeze. Chenggang visited the historic Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, observing people praying and celebrating in a vibrant atmosphere.
We admired the lively surroundings and also stopped by the famous, colorful Tan Teng Niah house, one of the last surviving Chinese villas in the area near Tekka Centre, with its vivid, kaleidoscopic facade standing out among the shops and eateries. We then enjoyed a flavorful Indian lunch at a nearby restaurant.
A Grab ride took us to Terminal 2 at Changi Airport, where we asked about the famous waterfall. An airport staff member pointed to a large screen displaying a digital version, but knowing that wouldn’t satisfy us, we took the airport shuttle to Terminal 1. The breathtaking waterfall (Jewel) set amid a stunning mall, was awe-inspiring—it felt like more than just an airport. Afterward, we walked back to Terminal 2 and relaxed in a lounge, enjoying a smooth latte and light snack before boarding our flight.
Our flight to Bangkok was smooth and comfortable, and after checking in at the hotel, we ventured to Chinatown for dinner at the lively night market. Though hesitant to try street food from the vendors, a sudden downpour led us to a cozy, albeit pricier, restaurant where we enjoyed our flavorful first Thai/Chinese meal in Thailand.
With an early tour scheduled for tomorrow, we were ready to settle in for the night.
今天早餐后我们去到了充满活力的小印度。印度文化在新加坡的多元文化中占有重要地位，小印度充满生机，街道上悬挂的彩色缎带在微风中飘扬，增添了几分节日气息。成刚参观了历史悠久的维拉玛卡里雅曼庙，在浓厚的氛围中看到人们虔诚祈祷、热烈庆祝的场面。我们也被这片充满生机的街区吸引，接着参观了德卡中心附近著名的彩色陈东霓雅屋。这栋中国传统别墅是该地区幸存的几栋之一，其鲜艳多彩的外墙在周围的商铺和餐馆中尤为亮眼。随后，我们在附近的一家餐厅享用了地道的印度午餐。
午餐后，回酒店拿了行李便叫了一辆Grab车前往樟宜机场的2号航站楼。特意询问了机场内那座著名的瀑布，一位机场工作人员指向一个显示屏，上面展示着瀑布的数字影像，但我们想看真实的瀑布，于是乘坐机场穿梭车前往1号航站楼。那瀑布（Jewel）坐落在一个令人惊叹的购物中心中，场景美不胜收——这里更像一座景点，而非普通的机场。欣赏完后，我们步行返回2号航站楼，在休息室候机并且享用了些许小食准备搭乘航班，继续我们的旅程。
也许我们对新加坡的期望过高，狮城并未给我们留下特别深刻的印象，整体感觉就是一座物价偏高的大都市。
我们的曼谷之行从一次平稳的航班开始。搭乘新加坡航空不到三个小时就抵达泰国曼谷。到达酒店办理入住后，我们前往热闹的唐人街（Chinatown）夜市享用晚餐。突如其来的大雨把我们带进了一家温馨的小餐厅，尽管价格不便宜，但我们品尝到了一顿美味的泰式中餐，开启了在泰国的美食之旅。