Xi Nan Region (Sth West China inc Yunnan and Tibet
Description and Climate
Description | Climate | Attractions | Recommendations
Tibets history dates back to the 7th century AD. Tibet "the roof top of the world" is found in the mountainous region of the Himalayas.Lhasa is the capital of Tibet and the first glimpse of this unique city is the Potala, a vast fortress perched high above the city below. Lhasa is divided into (2) west is the Chinese and East is the Tibetan section.
Zhangmu is the last Chinese town that you will see before crossing the border into Nepal. Access across to Nepal is via the "Friendship Bridge" and Kodari, which is located about 8kms below Zhangmu. You can change monies here and the rates are not bad. There is limited accommodation in Zhangmu and you need to get here early in order to reserve your bed.
Yunnan has some of the best and diverse scenery in China from rain forests to the Tibetan highlands it is becoming very popular with tourists. Kunming is the capital of Yunnan and its origins can be traced back 2,000 years. Lake Dian south of Kunming has been the site of excavations, archaeologists have found artefacts such as paintings, jewellery and weapons indicating that its predecessors were highly intelligent.
Dali has an altitude of 1900m and lies on the western side of Erhai Lake. It has a spectacular back drop being the Cangshan Mountains. Dali is a small city and the best way to see it is to walk.
Do's and Dont's:
Should you be invited to a Chinese home for a meal it is polite to take a gift. Flowers and chocolates are acceptable, however should you take something imported you would be widely respected and win (should it be for business) the deal or at least points in your favour.
When offering a cigarette do so with the packet open, do not hand over a single cigarette. For business purposes to give you counter part the entire pack would be most favourable.
Use both hands when presenting paper to another person in China. This shows respect.