Dali Old Town in Yunnan - China

 

Yunnan Province is one of the most fascinating regions of China. However, a journey through this province would not be complete without visiting the city of Dali. It was once an ancient capital and later became an important political and cultural center of Yunnan.

Dali has a history that stretches back thousands of years. In the past, it was part of an important trade network connecting China with Southeast Asia. It is also the cultural heart of the Bai people, one of the largest ethnic minority groups in Yunnan. The Bai, whose name means “white,” are well known for their craftsmanship, especially in silverwork and marble carving. Their traditional houses, often painted white and decorated with intricate wall paintings, reflect a rich artistic heritage. Bai culture is deep and fascinating, and it is difficult to fully describe in words. Only by visiting Dali in person can one truly understand and experience its unforgettable charm.

Dali enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, though each season offers a distinct experience. Like Lijiang, the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is most comfortable.

Traveling to Dali is convenient. High-speed trains connect Dali to Kunming in about two hours, making it the best and most popular option.

Dragon Snow Mountain in China

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, also known as Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山), is celebrated as the southernmost snow-capped mountain in the Northern Hemisphere. Located near Lijiang in Yunnan, it consists of 13 towering peaks, with the highest, Shanzidou Peak, reaching an impressive elevation of 5,596 meters. Stretching more than 30 kilometers from north to south and more than 10 kilometers across, the mountain’s snow-covered ridges often resemble a jade dragon winding through the clouds.

The mountain is sometimes called the “White and Black Mountain” for its striking mix of white limestone and dark igneous rock. For the Naxi people, it holds deep spiritual significance and is believed to embody Sanduo, their protective deity. 

Visitors can explore stunning natural attractions such as Glacier Park, the picturesque Blue Moon Valley, Spruce Meadow, and Yak Meadow, each offering unique alpine scenery and unforgettable views.

Visitors should plan for half a day to a full day to fully experience the mountain’s beauty and key sites, including breathtaking snowy landscapes. The ideal time to visit is from November to April.

 

Roup Pi - French Memorial Statue

In 1916, under the leadership of Joseph Joffre, Cambodians aged 16 and older were recruited into the French army to take part in World War I. These Khmer soldiers were sent to fight in Europe as part of France’s war effort.

To honor their sacrifice, the French colonial administration later constructed a monument known as the War Memorial, dedicated to the Khmer-French soldiers who lost their lives during the war.

However, during the Khmer Rouge regime, the monument was heavily damaged after being bombed by revolutionary forces. Much of it was destroyed, while some surviving fragments were preserved at the National Museum of Cambodia.

Years later, following discussions between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and French President Emmanuel Macron, the memorial was reconstructed to reinforce the historical ties and friendship between Cambodia and France.

The restoration took place at its original site within the garden in front of the French Embassy in Phnom Penh, designed by architect Dr. Ly Rasmey, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration. Care was taken to preserve the monument’s original design.

The rebuilt memorial was officially inaugurated on July 14, 2023, under the presidency of Hun Sen and other dignitaries, marking a renewed tribute to the Khmer-French soldiers who sacrificed their lives.