Why do Chinese native speakers also have English names? Blame it on the poor, unsuspecting foreign language teacher. Trying to pronounce a Chinese name is like asking a cat to solve a Rubik’s cube while riding a bicycle. The classroom …
North Taiwan
Traveling to the North of Taiwan has been on our bucket list. The perfect opportunity arose in June when we were returning from China, as we were flying back to Taipei anyway. Taipei We’ve visited Taipei several times in the …
The Big Plan – The Sequel
One year in Asia? Check! But who said we’d stop there? August, and we’re still happily exploring Taiwan – more than a month past our original plan. Looks like it’s time for a sequel to our Big Adventure! A few …
Inner Mongolia, Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum
After a day of traversing the endless Mongolian steppe, we arrived at a site steeped in history and legend: the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan. The legendary conqueror (born in 1162, died in 1227), who united nomadic tribes to form the …
Inner Mongolia, Xiangshawan, Resonant Dune Bay
“Xiangshawan, often referred to as the Resonant Dune Bay, is a mesmerizing expanse of sand located in the Kubuqi Desert of Inner Mongolia. This extraordinary desert oasis offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.” That’s the …
Inner Mongolia, Huitengxile & Ulan Hada Volcano
We had been dreaming of the vast Mongolian steppe for years, and Huitengxile was the perfect place to make that dream a reality. It was like stepping into a postcard – endless rolling hills, a sky so blue it seemed …
Yungang Caves, China
The Yungang Grottoes stand as a monumental testament to the artistic and religious fervor of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Carved into sandstone cliffs over a century, from the mid-5th to the early 6th centuries AD, these grottoes are a treasure …
Hanging Monastery, China
The Hanging Monastery, or Xuankong Si, is a truly extraordinary sight. Perched precariously on a sheer cliff face, this ancient temple seems to defy gravity. Its location, around 75 meters above the ground, is both breathtaking and bewildering. Built over …
Datong, China
Datong, a city in Shanxi Province, is a captivating blend of ancient and modern. It’s a place where the lines between old and new become blurred, creating a unique and fascinating atmosphere. But if you take a closer look, things …
Hohhot, Inner Mongolia
Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, offers a fascinating contrast between ancient history and modern urban life. This vibrant city is a gateway to the vast steppes and deserts of the region, but it also boasts a rich cultural heritage. …
