Before travelling to China, we read countless articles warning about language barriers, blocked websites, complicated payment systems and the challenges of travelling without speaking Mandarin. By the time we boarded our flight, we weren’t quite sure what to expect.
After spending 10 days travelling independently through Chengdu, Chongqing and Shanghai, we came away with a very different impression.
Just over an hour from the skyscrapers of central Shanghai, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town feels like stepping into a completely different world. Instead of busy roads and towering buildings, you’ll find quiet canals, centuries-old stone bridges, narrow alleyways and traditional houses lining the water.
Shanghai’s international skyline, European architecture and polished shopping streets made it feel much more familiar. It ended up being our least memorable stop in China, but we also think that’s because we visited it last.
Chongqing is quite unlike anywhere else we’ve visited. Towering skyscrapers, layered roads, neon lights and incredible food combine to create one of the most fascinating cities in China.
Chengdu was our first stop in China, and it completely exceeded our expectations. Discover giant pandas, incredible Sichuan food, friendly locals and our favourite places in this complete Chengdu travel guide.
Between 30 September 2018 and 1 January 2019, we spent 93 days travelling through the Balkans.
Our final stop in Serbia was Subotica, a city close to the Hungarian border that felt completely different from anywhere else we visited during our Balkan trip.
After spending over two weeks in Belgrade, we headed north to Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city.
Belgrade ended up being one of our favourite stops during our travels through the Balkans.
Bosnia and Herzegovina ended up being one of our favourite countries during our Balkan trip in 2018.