Snaps and Flip Flops: Yolo in Yangshuo

The first time I learned about Yangshuo was from a photo in 500px. The photographer probably wanted to keep the place a secret and didn't mention where it was taken. Fortunately, with a little bit of digging and scouring, I found other photos. With captions, thank you very much. It's been on my radar ever since. There was just something about its quiet mystery that appealed to me.

Fast forward two years later, I finally made it. Contrary to my pre-conceived notions, the town itself was a lot bigger and crowded than i imagined. In fact, I didn't even think there would be a town proper. Uhmm, i guess i was about 10 years too late. Luckily, the place we were staying at was a bit farther off town and on quiet roads. It was quite awesome actually, waking up to a view of the mountains. After Hongkong and Macau, it was good to be surrounded by nature. No more ostentatious hotels and grand skyscrapers!

It was springtime, and despite the scattered rainshowers, we managed to spend most of our time outdoors. Seriously, you would not be able to keep away from the magnificent views. The town was surrounded by karst formations and water. It was one of the most beautiful piece of nature I've ever seen. My only complaint was that the overcast weather did not make for good photographs :/

There were plenty of things to see and do, and the best way to go around was by bike and by raft. Biking in the town proper was such an adventure in itself! I did the 250 meter bungy jump in Macau, but I got more nervous riding my little fixie across town. My heart was racing a mile a minute. The good thing about it though is that the drivers are so used to the chaotic flow of traffic, they wouldn't be caught off guard if you just suddenly cross the street. Once we got past the town, it was exactly what you would expect on a bike ride to the countryside. Peaceful and quiet. Just what i wanted :)