This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
Kunming is the main city in the Yunnan province, a city with only a few things in common with other cities in China. First, be prepared for a better air quality in the city -- the pollution is nothing compared to the other main cities in China; and second, Kunming is known as the “Spring City,” with a constant climate all year round, full of trees and flowers in the streets –- you don't see this in many Chinese cities. The city has about one million inhabitants in the urban area so, for China, it's a small city.
Kunming's people are very pleasant and curious and here you can feel very safe, with a friendly vibe. Once in the city, don't miss the Green Lake Park, the Kunming Zoo, and the Yuantong Temple –- these three can be visited in only one day. Explore old Kunming, an area that still has a bit of the magic and traditional architecture of the region. If you follow the donkeys, you will find the best scenarios, with a lot less tourists and a little bit more of real Kunming. Get yourself lost -– it won't be easy with the proliferation of English signs –- and discover the traditional, nontouristic places that are still alive. Then, and most important, use Kunming as a base to explore the entire province of Yunnan.
The easiest way to get to Kunming is by train from the main cities in the nearest provinces, but there is a good bus network for the entire province –- and Kunming is the main hub to go everywhere in Yunnan. The hostels in Kunming are average with typical Chinese architecture and average facilities. Don't expect to find communal kitchens. Usually dorms are the least expensive option, but is easy to find double rooms for a little bit more. Kunming's hostels are a good point to settle and start exploring the Yunnan province, one of the best in China.
Written by local expertz for Kunming
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