When the pressures of life feel overwhelming, why not embark on a solo journey to discover distant places that heal the soul? Today, I'll share four cities perfect for a solitary escape, each one offering a peaceful escape where you can find your true self. 💕
Dali, Yunnan: A carefree time amidst the beauty of nature.
"The Cangshan Mountains are a painting imbued with ink for eternity, while the Erhai Lake is a zither untouched for eternity." Dali, a city kissed by sunshine and gentle breezes, embodies the most relaxing and poetic of moments.
- Erhai Lake Circumnavigation: Rent an electric scooter and stroll along the ecological corridor. The breeze carries the refreshing coolness of the lake, while you watch the cloud shadows shatter into specks of light across the surface. When you're tired, stop under the old locust tree at the Caicun Wharf, buy a piece of milk fan shaqi ma, and watch the fishing boats slowly glide across the water, slowing down time. - Sit back and relax in the ancient city: Avoid the main streets and wander into the alleys. Bask in the sun in the courtyard of the "September" cafe, watching the proprietress watering the flowers and playing with the cats. Or squat on the cobblestones of Renmin Road, listen to street singers sing folk songs, and occasionally chat with strangers sitting next to you. Don't try too hard, just feel free.
- Daydream in Xizhou: The rice paddies of early summer are dazzling green. Walk along the ridges and listen to the rustling of rice ears. When you feel tired, sit on the doorstep of an old Bai house and take a bite of freshly baked Xizhou baba - the sweet rose fragrance of the filling blends with the aroma of wheat, filling your mouth with a sense of peace and happiness.
Kyoto, Japan: A blend of ancient charm and tranquility
Kyoto is like an open old book, each page telling a gentle story of time, perfect for a leisurely read alone.
Watching the Clouds at Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Kiyomizu-dera Temple is least crowded in the early morning. Standing on the wooden Kiyomizu stage, you can watch the morning mist slowly dissipate towards Arashiyama, the distant rooftops blending into a single, inky hue. Even your breath becomes gentle. Toss a coin and make a wish. The gentle ringing of the bells seems to carry away your worries.
Wandering in Gion: The afternoon light and shadows dapple the Hanami-koji Path. Kimono-clad women walk by, their skirts lifted. The sound of their wooden clogs on the stone pavement is crisp and melodious. Turn into the alley's end at "Saryo Tsujiri," order a matcha warabimochi (a type of cake), and watch the shadows of maple trees fall on the tatami mats outside the window. You won't feel bored if you spend the entire afternoon there.
Listening to the Wind in Arashiyama: Sunlight filters through the bamboo forest paths, casting tiny specks of gold. The wind rustles the leaves, like someone humming a song in your ear. Walk to Togetsukyo Bridge and buy a taiyaki (fish-yaki). The moment you bite into it, the sweet red bean paste blends with the refreshing mountain breeze, leaving you feeling soft and tender.
Iceland: A Soulful Exile Amidst Natural Wonders
In Iceland, the vastness of the world makes worries seem light, perfect for confiding your thoughts to the wilderness and the stars.
- Chasing the Lights on the Golden Circle: Watching the geysers erupt, the plumes of hot water burst through the ground, like the earth breathing deeply. Standing at the edge of the rift valley in Thingvellir National Park, feet on the junction of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, it's as if you can hear the pulse of the deep earth. The spray from Gullfoss splashes on your face, cooling and refreshing—it turns out the power of nature truly can heal a frost-worn heart.
- Meditation on the Black Beach: Basalt columns stand like silent giants by the sea, waves crashing against the black sand, creating a deep rumble. Sitting on the rocks, daydreaming, watching seabirds fly across the water in the distance, suddenly feels like all your obsessions have become insignificant in this world.
- Soaking in the Blue Lagoon: Immerse yourself in the milky-blue hot springs, the warm water rising to your shoulders, surrounded by a vast expanse of white steam and wilderness. Apply a silica mud mask and look up at the clouds drifting slowly across the sky. In that moment, there's only wind, water, and a relaxed breath.
Chiang Mai, Thailand: A leisurely time in a small northern Thai city
Chiang Mai is like a glass of iced butterfly pea flower water, refreshing and gentle, allowing you to live your life like prose poetry.
- Seeking Zen in the Ancient City: Early morning, visit Wat Phra Singh and watch the monks walk barefoot through the long corridors, their chanting flowing like water through your heart. Sit down on a cushion in a corner, the sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows warming you, and your distracting thoughts quietly dissipate.
- Wandering Nimman Haemin Road: Order mango sticky rice at Mango Tango and sit outside to watch the people pass by—men in floral shirts, backpackers with dreadlocks, children chasing their dogs, everyone living life to the fullest. Turn into Artisan for a bar of handmade soap; the fragrance is a reminder of time slowing down. - Viewing the city from Doi Suthep: As you ascend the mountain in a songthaew, the wind mingles with the fragrance of grass and trees. Standing on the terrace of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, you'll see the ancient city of Chiang Mai spread out like a chessboard at the foot of the mountain, its red-tiled roofs gleaming in the sun. Buy a skewer of grilled squid and enjoy it while waiting for sunset, until the distant lights come on, and your heart warms.
Solo travel is a conversation with yourself and a healing experience. In these cities, slow down and savor every scene, every beauty. I believe you'll gain a lot from your journey and rediscover your vibrant self. 💖
#Where to go for summer vacation #Healing scenery #Travel solo #City humanities diary #The places I'm constantly asked about on WeChat Moments