G’Day from Dali!
After a dreary late night flight, we arrived in the southern city of Kunming, our destination for the night. A short sleep ensued, before the all-too-soon wake-up call. We devoured another quick breakfast buffet. However, our jam packed itinerary ensured no rest, and once again we were on the bus for a long journey ahead. We soon left the bustling city to be met with the jaw dropping views of the countryside. From terraced rice fields to monstrous mountains, our eyes couldn’t stop staring at the beautiful scenery. We soon noticed the clearer skies and warmer weather, the clouds were actually visible above the polluted smog. In no time, we arrived at our lunch stop. The long ride forced us to quickly “untie our hands” (the local slang for going to the toilet), before we could indulge on the organic, fresh and unique produce.
We eagerly sat in our seats waiting impatiently for our delicious food. Our wishes were soon granted as the delectable and colourful cuisine appeared from all angles of the table. We frantically piled our plates high, and chowed down on the fantastic, clean produce. You could taste the freshness in the vegetables, and the meat was tender and filled with all the flavours of China. Shortly, all the food had been eaten, as usual, leaving us wanting more with our bellies full to the brim.
After another long stint on the bus we finally arrived at Dali. We were unsure at first about what to expect at the hostel, but we were soon reassured once we saw our rooms. It turns out that a hostel in China just means that the hotel is run by one family, and they have been very welcoming.
We walked to the Foreigner’s Street from our accommodation. This was where we had our dinner for the night. From delectable yak steak to a good old pizza, everyone had a great time, enjoying their meals and each other’s company. After the meal we walked around the old city, finding small goods for great prices. From the beginning to the end, it was a great way to finish off the day.
The long day of driving gave us the opportunity to think about our past six days in China. Reflecting back in the trip so far, we have seen some amazing sights, but also learned a lot about the history and culture of the country, and more importantly, about ourselves. We have experienced many fun filled moments which will stay with us for the rest of our lives. From the first day, when we visited the Great Wall, to today, where we have come to the more rural areas of China, it has just gotten better and better. From the incredible sweet and sour food, to the never-ending mass of Terracotta Warriors, there have been no shortage of highlights. Bargaining with the street vendors has also been a major highlight. While at first it seems an ominous task to get the price you desire, it becomes easier with a little experience under your belt. After all, who doesn’t love a good bargain?
We are so fortunate to be apart of a great school like St Leonard’s, that provides such a life changing adventure to its year 9 students. Without the school’s help, we would not be able to visit our great trading partner and fellow member of the Pacific region, China. So far, it really has been a Big Experience.
By Matt Percival and Peter Kouroulis.
