China

The minute you step foot into this laid-back village, you will feel as if you have been transported to the lands of tropical Southeast Asia. This provincial capital is surrounded by jungles teaming with diverse varieties of wildlife, contributing to the humid temperatures of the region. 

An anomaly in the southwest of China, Yangshou serves as a welcome treat to western visitors travelling through this region. Almost everyone speaks some level of English and the main tourist strip of West Street spills over with hotels and restaurants serving western food or showing Hollywood movies.

A 40 mile section of the Lijang River from Guilin to Yangshuo holds China’s most photographed and beautiful limestone formations, described as karst scenery. 

The Giant Panda Research Centre just outside of Chengdu is most popular amongst visitors to this area and teaches conservation of animals as well as showing off these lovable furry creatures.