Family-friendly travel destinations on a budget, travel guide

## Yunnan Family Trip: Scenic Spots and Food Guide (Budget Accommodation) **I. Recommended Scenic Spots** * **Kunming:** * **Dianchi Haigeng Dam:** Watch red-billed gulls in winter and feed them with your kids. In summer, enjoy cycling or walking while admiring the lake and mountain scenery. * **Yunnan Wildlife Zoo:** Home to a wide variety of animals, including giraffes, elephants, and tigers. It also has a children's play area, perfect for family interaction. * **Cuihu Park:** A free park in the city center with a beautiful environment. Enjoy boating, flower viewing, and experience the local life. * **Dali:** * **Erhai Ecological Corridor:** Cycle or hike along the Erhai Lake, enjoying the stunning views. The route passes by wetlands and villages, ideal for taking photos and family activities. * **Xizhou Ancient Town:** Experience Bai culture, try tie-dyeing with your children, eat Xizhou Baba, and enjoy the slow-paced life of the ancient town. * **Dali Ancient City:** Stroll through the ancient city, soak in the historical atmosphere, and savor local snacks like roasted Rushan cheese and Erkuai. * **Lijiang:** * **Lijiang Ancient City:** A World Cultural Heritage site, experience Naxi culture, explore Sifang Street and Mu's Residence with your children, and discover the charm of the ancient city. * **Shuhe Ancient Town:** Quieter than Lijiang Ancient City, ideal for family leisure. Enjoy horseback riding, tea tasting, and basking in the sun. * **Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Blue Moon Valley:** The crystal-clear Blue Moon Valley lake at the foot of the snow mountain boasts vibrant colors, perfect for photography and hiking. * **Xishuangbanna:** * **Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden:** The largest tropical botanical garden in China, a great place to learn about various tropical plants with your children. * **Wild Elephant Valley:** Observe Asian elephants, learn about elephant conservation, and experience rainforest hiking. * **Manting Park:** The Royal Garden of the Dai King, with beautiful scenery and evening bonfires, offering a taste of Dai culture. **II. Food Recommendations** * **Kunming:** Cross-bridge rice noodles, steam pot chicken, small pot rice noodles, roasted Erkuai, and flower cakes. * **Dali:** Rushan cheese, Erkuai, sour and spicy fish, Yongping yellow braised chicken, and cold chicken rice noodles. * **Lijiang:** Naxi barbecue, Lijiang Baba, chicken pea jelly, and black goat hot pot. * **Xishuangbanna:** Dai barbecue, pineapple rice, lemongrass grilled fish, and pounded chicken feet. **III. Budget Accommodation Suggestions** * **Kunming:** Budget hotels near Cuihu Park or along the subway line, such as Home Inn and Hanting, priced around 150-300 RMB/night. * **Dali:** Guesthouses in Dali Ancient City or around Erhai Lake, choose clean and hygienic options, priced around 200-400 RMB/night. * **Lijiang:** Guesthouses outside Lijiang Ancient City or in Shuhe Ancient Town, priced around 200-400 RMB/night. * **Xishuangbanna:** Inns in Jinghong city or near Gaozhuang Xishuangjing, priced around 150-300 RMB/night. **IV. Other Suggestions** * Yunnan has strong UV rays, so take precautions against sunburn. Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. * Some scenic spots are at high altitudes. Take precautions against altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise. * Respect the customs and habits of local ethnic minorities. * Book flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful family trip to Yunnan!