In the spring of 2020, the world slowed down, but my mind did not. Like so many others in China’s travel industry, Lost Plate’s food tours came to a sudden halt when the pandemic closed borders. With no international guests, no tours, and no idea when things would return to normal, I found myself asking the same question as everyone else: what now?
Shanghai’s parks are more than just patches of green – they’re windows into the city’s soul. Whether it’s a quiet morning with Tai Chi or the lively hum of families and friends gathering, each park has its own story to tell. These spots blend old traditions with modern life, creating havens for locals to unwind and connect.
Some meals are about flavors. Others are about memory. And sometimes, if you’re lucky, a meal becomes a doorway into someone else’s world, where stories and laughter matter just as much as the food on the plate. That’s exactly what I found in a small village outside Yangshuo, where I sat down to one of the most unforgettable meals of my life. But this wasn’t a restaurant in the usual sense. It was someone’s actual home.
Ask any Shanghainese person, “What does Shanghai taste like?” and you’ll likely hear about its rich, soy-infused cuisine, a steaming bowl of scallion oil noodles, or perfectly crisp Shengjianbao. But one dish that truly captures the essence of the city’s food culture is “Baoyu,” or Shanghai-style fried fish.
In the heart of Xizhou, a small town by Yunnan’s Erhai Lake, the scent of baking bread drifts through the air. Inside a modest, flour-dusted bakery, Mr. and Mrs. Yang stand over a charcoal-fired oven, their hands moving with quiet precision – just as generations before them have done. This is the home of a century-old tradition: Xizhou Baba.
Ask any Shanghainese person, “What does Shanghai taste like?” and you’ll likely hear about its rich, soy-infused cuisine, a steaming bowl of scallion oil noodles, or perfectly crisp Shengjianbao. But one dish that truly captures the essence of the city’s food culture is “Baoyu,” or Shanghai-style fried fish.
Planning a trip with the whole family – whether that means toddlers, teens, or even grandparents – can be a logistical puzzle. These curated multi-day trips focus on hands-on activities packed with local flavor (literally) and experiences that are perfect for everyone.
Before you dive into China’s rich culture and delicious food, there are a few things you should know to help you feel more comfortable and avoid any awkward moments. From water etiquette to understanding the nuances of Chinese dining customs, this quick guide will help you navigate your way through everyday experiences with ease and confidence.
You probably don’t think of China when you think of wine. That’s about to change. Hidden in China’s remote northwest, where the vast Gobi desert meets the Helan mountain range, a quiet wine revolution is unfolding. Ningxia, once known for sheep herding and sandstorms, is now producing some of the most exciting wines in the world—and almost nobody knows about it.
Planning a trip to China? For most travelers, obtaining a tourist visa (L-Visa) is essential before arrival, but there are several exceptions and visa-free options that could simplify your journey. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you need to know.
