Flying into Dali, the sun shone brightly as mountains rose like giants from the earth. Upon landing, taxi drivers—some of whom had returned to Dali after years working in the big eastern cities—queued outside the airport for departing passengers. We chose one, and after a twenty-minute drive arrived at our courtyard hotel in Dali Old City, complete with a koi pond shimmered at the center, as if to ease us gently into the slower rhythm of the place.
Dali
The vibes in Dali Old City were unmatched—bustling yet unhurried. Narrow streets wind past small bakeries, cozy cafés, hot pot spots, and tea sellers.
Simple yet unforgettable, one of my favorite experiences was renting a bike and riding along the shores of Erhai Lake. The water glistened next to us as we followed the smooth, winding paths through a beautifully kept park. We passed small shops and homes adorned with the Bai people’s traditional blue artwork, while the mountains rose in the background, giving the entire journey an otherworldly feel.
