Fact Sheets & Video - China

Step back into the China of Old...

Dali is an ancient town set at the foot of the spectacular Cangshan mountain range. It is located in the Yunnan Province, in the most southwest region of China. The province borders Vietnam, Laos and Burma. Until recently, Yunnan was largely cut off from the rest of the world due to its precipitous mountain ranges. Many believe that the Shangri-La referred to in James Milton's Lost Horizons was here in Yunnan.

Dali was traditionally the Yunnan Province's political, economic and cultural centre and was an important pass of the "Silk Route of the South." Dotted with monasteries and temples, Dali has been known as a "Scented Wonderland."

Take a chairlift to get a bird's eye view over Dali Old town and nearby Erhai Lake, so named because it is shaped like an ear ('Er') and is as big as the sea ('Hai'). Dali's principal monument is the 1,000 year old Three Pagodas which despite many earthquakes, still stand today.

In Dali, the largest ethnic minority are the Bai people, making up 65% of the total 400,000 population. Andrew experiences local Bai hospitality in the colourful local villages and gets a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.

Lijiang - the Venice of the East

With its flowing canals, ancient stone bridges and relaxed cafe culture, you can see why Lijiang is often described as the "Venice of the East". Although one third of the town was destroyed by an earthquake in 1996, Lijiang Old Town has been restored and retains its quaint charm. In 1997 Lijiang Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore the maze of charming cobblestone streets in the old town and see the market squares come alive with Naxi entertainment. The Naxi ethnic minority are traditionally matriarchal, so the women ruled the roost! The Naxi minority are the largest ethnic group in Lijiang and its surrounding area. The name 'Naxi' means 'respectable people'. The Naxi are also overwhelmingly hospitable and friendly people.

Tibetan influences are evident around town and the Yufeng Monastery is a peaceful centre of Buddhist beliefs. In the traditional Baisha village you'll find famous Dr Ho who can prescribe you ancient remedies for your ailments. Journalists and photographers from every corner of the world have visited Baisha; and Dr Ho, previously an unknown doctor in an unknown town has achieved worldwide status.

Further Information:

Yunnan Province, CHINA

Thai Airways International return to Kunming from $1251 west coast

$1375 east coast

Valid 28/4/08 - 26/6/08

1300-651-960

www.thaiairways.com.au

Prices correct at 15/4/08 include surcharges, fees & taxes. Conditions apply.

TRAVEL INDOCHINA is a boutique tour operator that has specialised in Asia for more than 13 years. Travel Indochina's 8-Day Yunnan Explorer Small Group Journey starts from $1790pp (twin share). Yunnan Explorer is a wonderful journey into the heart of the legendary Kingdom of Shangri La. Spectacular mountain landscapes, colourful Tibetan towns, ethnic minorities and traditional life await you as you step back into the China of yesteryear.

Price departing Kunming includes: 7 nights hotel accommodation, all internal flights as specified, all road transport by air-conditioned vehicles, all sightseeing as specified (excluding entrance fees), breakfast daily, Travel Indochina tour leader based on a minimum of seven people, local English-speaking guides throughout, airport arrival and departure transfers.

For more information call 1300 365 355 or click onto www.travelindochina.com.au

First 50 to book receive a $1,000 airfare credit per couple.