Guilin, China

Town out of the Landscape Paintings


After one of the longest days in China, waiting at the Shanghai airport all day for my evening flight, because I booked in hurry one day, so didn't get to check all my options. Next time, just head to the airport and find a flight that leaves when you're ready for it to leave!

On bus from Guilin airport, I could catch a glimpse of the karst/limestone rock formations rising from the otherwise flat landscape.
Locals (or Chinese tourists) were out late at the clubs, with techno music thumping down the street. Found some dinner at midnight, paying prices designed for tourists (food was cheapest in Beijing, as was transportation, many things are subsidized in the capital city).

For my one full day in Guilin, I went to a neon-light lit cave. Despite the gaudiness, it had some interesting formations, and was refreshingly cool.

Located the badminton gym, where I only had to watch for 5 minutes before I was invited to play. I held my own against the formidable Chinese contingent. The others were in their mid-20s, so close in age. They invited me for a sweet dessert/drink (with beans and aloe) afterwards, and to party later that night. Mostly foreigners at the party, exchange students at the nearby public university. My group, following my lead, got the dance floor started...