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WWW.XIANEASE.COM SEPTRMBER 2019 Vol.105 免费 取阅 Trekking the Himalayas SPEAKEASY Ready? Fight! Making a Sustainable Impact BARS Photos of the Xi'an Scene www.xianease.com 1
September 2019 6 Sep Calendar What’s Going On in Xi’an Food & Drink CONTENTS 8 Localand · 霁在游牧料理 10 Seasonal Tastes-The Westin Xi’an 知味咖啡厅 12 Bar Take Five (Gaoxin) 14 Morii Vintage Lifestyle Morii复古空间 16 Made By Mesh: Chocolate, Coffee, Cranberry and Cashew Nut Fudge Top 5 18 Top 5 - Speakeasy Bars 8 14 Infographic 20 Trash Sorting Cheatsheet Arts & Entertainment 22 Shows You Can’t Miss Sponsored 24 Qujiang Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital 32 A Positive Journey at Canopy by Hilton Chengdu City Centre 16 22 Travel 34 Trekking the Himalayas Community 40 Ready? Fight! 44 Making a Sustainable Impact Xi’an Scene 48 Photos of the Xi'an Scene 34 40 Listings Discover YOUR 51 BARS / CLUBS 52 RESTAURANTS Xi’an and join us 52 SHOPPING on WeChat and Weibo! 53 HEALTH 53 Spas 54 EDUCATION 44 54 Medical 54 Expats services WeChat Weibo 4 xianease
XIANEASE Hello Xi’an! se.com xianea L Web, Print, Events, and More iving here always feels a little like school—probably because so many of September 2019 Volume 105 our schedules are still tied to education, XIANEASE 《XIANEASE发现西安》DM广告月刊 se.com whether you’re the teacher or the person not paying any attention to the teacher. For us it’s xianea www.xianease.com Web, Print, Events, and More business as usual, but autumn is always a time to look forward to in the city (all 3 ½ weeks of Advertising 广告合作 sales@xianease.com it): great weather, meeting new people, reunit- WWW.XIANEASE.COM General Enquiries 咨询 ing with old friends, a couple of bank holidays— info@xianease.com SEPTRMBER 2019 Vol.105 fall really has it all. Oh yeah, and check out our Operations 运营机构 English-language cheat sheet for the new trash 西安易知广告有限公司 免费 取阅 policy, you filthy animals. Xi’an (Head Office) 西安(总部) No. 1 Xihuamen, Xi’an 西安西华门1号 Trekking the Himalayas Tel 电话: 029-8720 1616 Ready? Fight! SPEAKEASY Making a Sustainable Impact BARS -Tim King Fax 传真: 029-8720 1077 Photos of the Xi'an Scene Editor-in-Chief Editor-In-Chief 主编 Tim King tim.king@xianease.com Designer / Editor 美术设计 Dylan dylan@xianease.com Art Director 美术设计 Super Jing wu.jinjing@xianease.com Sales Director 广告总监 Daisy Zhao zhaoxi@xianease.com This month’s contributors 投稿志愿者 Daun Yorke Gary Wood Haytham Mike Leaner Nahida Khan Oomesh Nana Sammy Pryse Thabo Jaffe thabojaffe@gmail.com Tim King tim.king@xianease.com www.xianease.com 5
September Calendar Sep 8 Sep 13 Sep 21 Concert Concert Concert THE FUR.巡演-西安站 Time: 8:00pm-9:30pm -执此一念 巡演 西安站 Time: 8:30pm-10:00pm Location: MAO Livehouse Location: MAO Livehouse Time: 8:30pm-10:00pm Address: Qujiang Creative Circle, Yanx- Address: Qujiang Creative Circle, Yanx- iang Road, Qujiang District. Location: MAO Livehouse iang Road, Qujiang District. 雁塔区雁翔路3369号曲江创意谷 Address: Qujiang Creative Circle, Yanx- 雁塔区雁翔路3369号曲江创意谷 iang Road, Qujiang District. Tickets: 90/100/120RMB Tickets: 80/100RMB 雁塔区雁翔路3369号曲江创意谷 Tickets: 100/120/150/220RMB Sep 23 Xi’an Comedy Club Location: TBA Add Wayner on WeChat (ID: Wayner012) to be added to the audience group and be among the first to hear about new shows! Sep 13-15 Sep 14 Concert Concert Rhyme of the state-Peking Sound Fragment 2019 Opera Symphony Concert Tour 声音碎片“遍地风流” 【第二届西安国际舞蹈节】 第二轮巡演 西安站 开幕演出 马修·伯恩舞剧 Time: 8:30pm-10:00pm 《天鹅湖》 Location: 1935livehouse Time: 7:30pm Address: Dahua 1935, #251, Tai Hua Location: SNPAC-Theater (陕西大剧院- Nan Lu. 戏剧厅) 新城区太华南路251号大华1935小剧场 Address: Yanta Nan Lu, Qujiang District. 集群壹剧场 曲江新区雁塔南路 Tickets: 150/180RMB Tickets: 80~880RMB 6 xianease
Sep 25/27/29 Sep 30 September Every Friday Concert Concert M_DSK X M-LAB Toastmasters BUICK·Shaanxi Opera House International 满舒克 “ 神经浪游 ” Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm Co-production Verdi: 2019巡演 西安站 Address: Classroom No.1of Wendu educa- Rigoletto Time: 8:30pm-10:00pm tion, SAIGE shopping center Floor10, 陕西大剧院首度全球联合制 Location: 1935livehouse Chang’an zhong lu, northeast of Xiaozhai Address: Dahua 1935, #251, Tai Hua crossroad 作 威尔第歌剧《弄臣》 Nan Lu. 小寨赛格国际购物中心10楼文都教育 Time: 7:45pm 新城区太华南路251号大华1935小剧场 第一教室 集群壹剧场 Special: Every week different meeting Location: SNPAC – Opera House (陕西 Tickets: 249/299/349RMB themes, Public speaking in English! 大剧院-歌剧厅) Address: Yanta Nan Lu, Qujiang District. 曲江新区雁塔南路 Tickets: 180~480RMB September Hash House Harriers Want to join the world- famous Xi’an Hash Run? Follow us on WeChat to Sep 30 Oct 2 find info on this month’s run! Concert Concert “Portraits” Greyson Sir Simon Rattle/ Emanuel Chance 2019 Ax and London Symphony Wechat: Orchestra The-4-Horsemen 2019 巡回演唱会 西安站 Time: 8:00pm-9:30pm 【西安音乐厅十周年巨献】 西蒙·拉特爵士、伊曼纽 Location: Core Space (高新·果核剧场) Address: No.14, Gaoxin 2 Lu, Gaoxin 尔·艾克斯与伦敦交响乐团 September Every Sun/Sat District. 高新区高新二路14号 2019 西安音乐会 Ultimate Frisbee Tel: (029) 8550 1111 Time: 1:30pm-9:30pm Tickets: 480RMB Every Saturday Location: Xi’an Concert Hall (西安音 Match: 3:00pm - 7:00pm 乐厅) Address: Yanta Nan Lu, Qujiang District. Location: Xi’an Jiao Tong University of 曲江新区雁塔南路 Finance and Economics (西安交通大学 财经学院), just next to the 纬二街(Wei Er Tickets: 280~1580RMB Jie) bus stop. Every Sunday Match: 3:00pm - 7:00pm Location: Xi’an Wenli Institute Taibai Campus (西安文理学院), 1# Keji 6th Road. 科技六路1号 Robin 183-9258-9745 Rick Deckard 150-2923-3725 Don’t suffer from FOMO - scan this QR code to follow the offical XIANEASE WeChat account, where you can find weekly events and discover your Xi’an! www.xianease.com 7
Food & Drink Localand · 霁在游牧料理 Article By Nahida Khan 2F, D29, Glorious Plaza, No.305, Keji Road, Gaoxin District. 高新区科技路305号西安大都荟 D29二层 (029) 8864 7578 5:30pm - 9:30pm Average Price per Person /人均消费: 150RMB J i Zai You Mu Liao Li is the latest friends. The music is very relaxing and allows addition to the Localand family you to appreciate both the food and your located in the Gaoxin area. Localand company. The founder and designer of have given a new meaning to ‘fusion’ by Localand is an artist, which is evident by the blending local cuisine with an international beautiful decor. He also owns the art shop taste. The head chef, Sean, brings together located downstairs which often holds arts French, Italian and Thai influences, and exhibitions that you can enjoy either before then mixes it with some traditional history or after your meal. Make a night of it! The we can find here in Xi’an. Every dish has a art shop can make it a little confusing to story behind it and is as delicious as the next. find the restaurant but just follow the big All the dishes come served delicately, with Localand sign and take the lift to the second beautiful decorations. The best thing about floor. I promise you it will be worth the hunt! Ji Zai You Mu Liao Li is that that they cater Ji Zai You Mu Liao Li are introducing to different dietary requirements, whether something new and exciting to Xi’an by you are a vegetarian, pescatarian or a red creating seasonal menus which will change meat lover like me. They have something every 3 months. Get there soon if you don’t for everyone! It can be challenging to find want to miss out on what they have to offer. restaurants that don’t just serve conventional I’m sure their amazing staff will be happy to western dishes, so Ji Zai You Mu Liao Li is a see you there. refreshing alternative. Ji Zai You Mu Liao Li is perfect for a nice meal out or a casual catch up, with their platters and their amazing Pros: drinks list which features some of the best Tasty food; great service; unique concept wine I’ve ever tasted. Bonus points for the fact they give you the option to order by the Cons: glass, which is a rare find here in Xi’an. Confusing but interesting entrance Localand provides the full experience of a fusion restaurant, without breaking the bank at approximately 150-200RMB per head. The restaurant has a chilled Nahida Kahn can be reached at atmosphere with a ‘treat me’ vibe, whether reviews@xianease.com that is for yourself, your partner or your 8 xianease
Food & Drink Seasonal Tastes-The Westin Xi'an 知味咖啡厅 Article By Haytham Westin Hotel, No.66 Cien Road, Qujiang New District. 曲江新区慈恩路66号威斯汀大 酒店G层 (029) 6893 8367 5:30am - 10:00pm Scan to buy Voucher I thought I knew what to expect the best I have ever tried so far, for it has from hotel buffets: common dishes, checked all the requirements to perfection. Average Price though exquisite, but taste bland and Laksa is rice noodle cooked with coconut milk per Person ordinary; seafood that are simply boiled and spicy curry. It is always the top choice /人均消费: and probably captured a week ago. This in the school canteen, and I have had my particular seafood festival stands above the 208-228RMB rest with Chef Lim Meng Seng, a chef with fair share of laksa from different restaurants. It is indeed a bit of disappointment in a deep understanding of southeast Asian finding that the laksa in Westin is a bit delicacies, and over 40 years of experience under-flavoured. Chef Lim, who is extremely in top hotels. The strong spices and tender friendly and patient, explained that it is texture of the meat dishes are awe-inspiring. because the coconut milk produced in Every piece of chicken has a tender texture: China is less rich than in Malaysia, and has the grilled chicken satay is done perfectly, guaranteed to improve it. This minor slip is not dry nor undercooked; and the Nonya completely understandable, since I was there chicken’s flavour is truly elevated when being on the opening day and realize the level of soaked in coconut milk. When I pressed my pressure our chef is dealing with. In finishing fork onto it, there was no resistance, as if I this review, I find myself considering who am piercing through a pudding. to take when I visit Westin again, for the Bak-kut teh, the “meat and bone tea” perfect laksa before this summer ends. is what I would have in Singapore every Sunday after church. A bowl of rice, Pros: soup with pork ribs and a small plate of Great, authentic SE Asian food; good vegetables in thick soy sauce would be the service perfect worldly meal after my soul is fed. The bak-kut teh delivered by Chef Lim showed Cons: me the gourmet version of this dish. Any Chinese coconut milk chef, from Jamie Oliver or Garden Ramsay to your grandmother would tell you that meat with bones is the finesse; the difference in the quality would lie in the processing of the Haythan can be reached at raw material and control of the temperature, reviews@xianease.com time taken to cook it and even the pressure in the boiler. The bak-kut teh in Westin is 10 xianease
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Food & Drink Bar Take Five (Gaoxin) Article By Mike Leaner Inside of Everyday convenience store, Block A, Jinqiao International Plaza, Keji Road. 科技路金桥国际广场A座 每一天 便利店内 (029) 8822 8057 7:00pm-2:00am Average Price per Person /人均消费: 80RMB T ake 5’s flagship location at a single-mixer, a Cuba Libre or a G&T is in the Zhuque Gate is a charming place cards as well. To accompany your drinks, you that screams “classy” at the top can choose a snack from the small menu of of its lungs, from every leather couch and appetizers and tapas. Tasty as the food is, it hardwood furnishing. I had the pleasure of doesn’t fit the theme super well. Meaning doing the review of that place a few years that, while I enjoyed every delectable bit they ago, and I’m back to say that I lied. It’s a put in front of me, I don’t think Al Capone great bar, but it’s not as Boardwalk Empire ever ate a curry ball. So it goes. as I’d stated. Their new place in Gaoxin? I All-in-all, while I was a fan of the Take 5 promise I’m not lying this time, it’s, like, brand from the word go, this new speakeasy straight out of Boardwalk Empire is poised to become my new favorite bar in Take 5’s latest and greatest bar is a speakeasy, all of Xi’an. You’ll pay for the quality, sure. in the truest sense of that word. If you didn’t But I am a sucker for atmosphere, I just love know it was there, you’d probably just buy how cool I feel sitting at the bar in a fancy a bottle of water and a pack of cigarettes place hidden in a convenience store—and at the Everyday convenience store it hides having delicious food and drinks to back it Pros: behind. No, seriously. It’s hidden inside a up makes it all the better. fully-functioning convenience store. The A quartet of greats—great food, great cashier is in on the game though, so if you drinks, great service and great atmos- can’t find the hidden door in the back, he’ll phere point you in the right direction. When you make it inside, you’ll find a spacious, two- Cons: floor barroom that oozes Prohibition-era I found some cocktails were a mite atmosphere. The menus are even designed sweet, and you can rack up a hefty bill to look like old-timey newspapers. The very fast if you’re not careful (or rich) cocktails are also named to evoke that Mafioso-tinged era—from “Leaving Las Vegas” to “Chicago”. Speaking of the cocktails, you’ll have Mike Leaner likes to get dirty but not for your pick of liquor. There are roughly free. He can be reached at twenty signature cocktails to choose from, reviews@xianease.com alongside a healthy selection of whisky and the like, but if you’re more the type to have 12 xianease
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Food & Drink Morii Vintage Lifestyle Morii复古空间 Article By Thabo Jaffe B1, Zhongda International, No.30 Nan Da Jie. 南大街30号中大国际B1层 (029) 8720 3604 10:00am - 2:00am Average Price per Person /人均消费: 100RMB U nder the pretence that I was just menu as well as English-speaking staff. The going to do a bar review, I headed Burpger Beer and Burger menu is American/ to the easy-to-find Zhongda Mexican themed, with some standouts International just inside the South Gate on being the tacos (hard- and soft-shell), the South Street. Walking down a well-lit side premium hamburgers and tasty Mexican alley I find the name I’m looking for, splayed rice bowls. For their craft beer they’ve across the side of the mall. I head in the partnered with “18” Brewery of Wuhan, and little door and start heading down some they cover all the bases—wheat beer, stout, stairs, but stop to anxiously check where IPAs, saison and more—a total of about 10 my partner-in-crime for the night is. I don’t on tap with taster sets available. Mix and go to bars alone and I’ve been somewhat match the food and drinks or choose one let down by underground bars in the past. of their combo sets. The word I would use On cue, my partner arrives and we make to describe it is affordable. Wednesdays are our way inside. This wouldn’t be one of the ladies night, AKA “Funky Nights,” whereby times I’d be let down. the fairer sex gets a buy-one-get-one-free as Pros: well as a 99RMB “free flow beer” special. It would be grossly unfair to say that we Great Americana atmosphere, good food walked into a bar. As the name alludes Their whiskey and cocktail bar offers all the and beer, no difficulty for English speak- to, Morii Vintage Lifestyle is just that. whiskeys you could possibly think of, at a ers, reasonable prices This place takes up the entire basement competitive price, and the cocktail menu floor, with the bar/restaurant/livehouse has all the classics as well as some in-house Cons: an island surrounded by a small gallery, specialties. Having vintage in the name I struggled to find any classic barbershop, Wagyu beef restaurant, of the establishment, I went for an old- Chinese rice wine store, toy store, various fashioned and was not disappointed. clothing stores (fitting the theme), a leather The atmosphere is warm and spacious, goods stand and a tattoo parlour. These Thabo is an avid explorer and less-than- with Morii going the extra mile, having are separately managed parts that all fall worldly South African, always in search chairs to tables to signboards, literally all the under the Morii umbrella, and most close at furniture, imported from vintage USA. With of new experiences. Stopping just short 10pm, save for the main island, which closes the promise of many future events to be of suicidal, he’s a true Yes Man. You can at 2am. held here, I get the feeling that this is going reach him via email at Now onto the bar review. You can let your to be one of Xi’an’s new nighttime hotspots. thabojaffe@gmail.com translation app rest, as they have an English 14 xianease
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Food & Drink mes madeby Article by Oomesh Nana offe e, Cr an berr y Chocolate, C g e and Cas he w N ut F u d to defend fo r m e ca lling this fudge but allow me inated ould have me assass it to be fudge’s cous in. For A true confectioner w er I w ou ld co ns id er howev ve it is actual fudge, nd you into a sugar co ma or myself—I don’t belie swee t gr it that co uld se by that tooth-aching me, fudge is defined way, it’ll defeat you. sugar heaven. Either . The recipe can be va ried, so e tw eake d it sligh tly s and I’v at of Nigella Lawson’ This adaptation is th with it and de ve lop your own flavors. play around 60 pieces of rich fudge es at least Mak d milk ch op pe d • 1 can condense chocolat e, • 350 grams dark e eg g yo lk • pinch of salt 1 la rg • 30 grams butter rries ew nu ts • 50 grams cranbe n cash • 150 grams plai ed ng espresso, cool • 1/4 cup of stro 16 xianease
Instructions: 1. Put the chopped chocolate, condensed milk, butter and coffee in a heavy-based pan on a low heat, and stir to melt. 2. Put the nuts into a freezer bag and bash them with a rolling pin, until broken up into both big and little pieces. 3. Tip the nuts into the melted chocolate mixture and stir well. 4. Pour and spatch this mixture into a square 23 cm foil tray (no need for greasing) smoothing the top. 5. Allow the fudge to cool, and refrigerate until set. You can then cut it into small pieces approx. 3 x 2.25cm. Cutting 8 x 10 lines in the tin to give 64 pieces best achieves this. 6. Once cut, it can be kept in the freezer - no need to thaw, just eat straight away. About Mesh: “My hands interpret my soul’s craving.” ~ Oomesh Nana Born with a passion for food, Oomesh, also known as Mesh, is a natural cook, teacher, inspirer and Chef. Mesh was inspired into the world of culinary by family and close friends, and has been playing, cooking, experimenting and creating from the age of 12. His passion for teaching, sharing and inspiring have led him to become a world-class instructor in the culinary field. A true natural in any kitchen, Mesh enchants people with his simple, easy-to-cook and fuss-free approach to food. A strong believer in good quality, fresh, local ingredients, Mesh is always inspired to try new and creative ways to make food taste WOW – by showcasing the ingredients in their simplest and most basic forms. Born in East London, South Africa, Mesh has published 2 recipe books. He is a qualified Chef and Graphic Designer and currently an English language teacher. www.xianease.com 17
TOP 5 Article By XIANEASE SPEAKEASY BARS There’s no shortage of pretty good places to get a drink in town, but if you’re tired of the same old song- and-dance of bottle shops and mediocre cocktails, you might be craving a different kind of experience. The speakeasy, a classic style of bar that was most prominent in the Prohibition-era United States, might be that new experience. The most distinctive quality of a speakeasy is its secrecy; this trait was once necessary to hide from authorities, but nowadays it’s mostly a tool for cultivating a sense of exclusivity and/or cool. Either way, there is something eminently exciting about watching a hidden XIANEASE WeChat door swing open to reveal a wonderland of booze. We’ve got the scoop on all the most secretive of speakeasies in town, and now we’ll share with you so you can count yourself amongst those in-the- know. 01 CINNAMON PINK The first speakeasy we heard of in town, Cinnamon isn’t super hidden but isn’t super obvious either. A little sign next to the COCKTAIL BAR entrance, which is just inside Hanguang Gate, is all that will alert you 肉桂粉 to its presence. Once inside and up the stairs all you’ll find is a golden cocktail shaker on a pedestal, as if you were starring in Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Bar. When you pull it, a hidden door will allow you entry into a sleek, modernist bar. Address: Tian Shui Jing Jie, Beilin District. 甜水井街 Phone: (029) 8962 8697 Hours: 7:00pm-2:00am 02 MR. K BAR & LOUNGE Mr. K, located near Zhuque Gate, is also not exactly hidden—but it did confuse the hell out of one of our reviewers, who did not anticipate that the switch to open the door was in the Olmeca head’s nose. Once you’ve appeased him with a good nose-picking, he swings aside and lets you pass into the spacious bar decorated with many more Olmeca heads. This swanky place can make drinks quickly and has live performances as well. Address: No.8, Tai Yang Miao Men, Beilin District. 朱雀门里太阳庙门8号 Phone: (029) 8737 1545 Hours: 8:00pm-3:00am 18 xianease
03 MORE WHISKY More Whisky Bar’s liquid pleasures are locked behind a keypad, which is not adorned with numbers, but rather with a set of Chinese characters—some familiar, some cryptic. We’re not sure of the exact combination, but we think it’s safe to say that inputting 我,要,喝, and酒 (“I want to drink alcohol”) should allow you inside. This whisky, martini and cigar bar has everything you need to indulge your inner robber-baron-fat- cat. Address: South Gate of Qujiang 6 Hao, Cuiwei Road 翠微路曲江6号南门 Phone: (029) 8550 8552 Hours: 7:00pm-2:00am 04 THE CIRQUE 威士忌酒吧妙手回春 Don’t be fooled by the quaint, unattended charms of the Chinese medicine shop before you. Like any good secret room, Cirque is hidden behind the bookcase. Slide it open and you’ll find a top-notch cocktail bar and, if you’re one of the V-I-est-Ps, you’ll perhaps get to enjoy the also-hidden VIP lounge, complete with a private bar. Address: Southwest corner square at the intersection of Xinkaimen South Road and Hanyao Road. 新开门南路与寒窑路交口西南角下沉广场 Phone: 153-1992-5262 Hours: 11:00am-10:00pm 05 BAR TAKE 5 (GAOXIN) While you might be familiar with Take 5’s captain-of-industry- styled bar inside Zhuque Gate, their new location in Gaoxin on Keji Lu is maybe the ultimate in Xi’an speakeasies. Your friends will wonder why the hell you’re taking them to an Everyday convenience store, and then you’ll get to enjoy their bafflement when you push a button on the back wall and reveal a bar that feels like it was just out of the Jazz Age. See our review in this issue for more details. Address: Inside of Everyday convenience store, Block A, Jinqiao International Plaza, Keji Road. 科技路金桥国际广场A座 每一天便利店内 Phone: (029) 8822 8057 Hours: 7:00pm-2:00am Know more Xi’an top five? Send an email to top5@xianease.com or go to www.xianease.com and leave a comment. www.xianease.com www.xianease.com 19
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Arts & Entertainment You can't Miss Article by Tim King THE FUR. THE 16TH FLOOR SEPT. 8th (SUN) - MAO LIVEHOUSE SEPT. 21ST (SAT) - MAO LIVEHOUSE I’m really not too sure what to make of the Fur. Allegedly named The 16th Floor (16层) sounds a lot like Explosions in the Sky. That’s for their desire to make “soft and comfy” music, it’s really hard a pretty good shorthand for post-rock at large, but I would say they for me to know whether I should take them at face value. That’s sound particularly like the genre’s elephant in the room. From the because, firstly, mission accomplished; this band’s music is awash song construction, to the tones, to the inability to resist a crescendo, in sustained, fuzzed-out 80s synth (Reaganomics!), and has a it’s all a bit paint-by-numbers, but painted very well. Sure to get lackadaisical, almost funky edge to it. My first thought was, “island you in a day-dreamy trance, the 16th Floor may not be winning music,” not for anything that conjures up Bali or the Bahamas, but any prizes for innovation, but unlike some of the other bands in more for the fact that I can’t imagine doing anything that isn’t Chinese post-rock, they have a willingness to indulge in the cheesy, leisurely while listening to the Fur’s music. But then again, I wonder emotionally manipulative sonic theatrics that make the genre one what the hell is really going on, because, secondly, there’s a whole of my favorites. song about grandma wanting to talk to Lionel Messi because she’s lonely. Wonders never cease. XI’AN COMEDY CLUB SEPT. 23RD (MON)- TBA Xi’an’s burgeoning standup scene is hot off the heels of a good (albeit rainy) show in August, and will be back in late September for another round. Homegrown acts from all over the world try their hand at making you laugh, and sometimes they succeed. Never predictable, usually entertaining, always one-of-a-kind, the rumors are true: Xi’an Comedy Club is worth a look. Come for the train wreck, stay for the train. Add Wayner on WeChat (ID: wayner012) to be added to the Audience group so you can know venue and show times as soon as they’re announced! Tim King is the editor-in-chief of Xianease Magazine and an erstwhile punk rocker. He can be reached at tim.king@xianease.com 22 xianease
Date Sep Shows Time Location Show Type Price (¥) 2019/9/7 19:30 SNPAC-Xi’an Concert Hall XSO Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky Concert Symphony ¥60/30/120/150/200 2019/9/7 20:30 1935 Livehouse Huang Yuli 90’s boy 2019 Tour Folk ¥60 (stu) / 80 (pre) / 100 (at door) 2019/9/8 20:00 Mao Livehouse THE FUR. Indie ¥ 100 (pre) /120 (at door) Favours! 2019 Album 2019/9/8 20:30 1935 Livehouse Electronic ¥ 80 (pre) /100 (at door) Release Tour 2019/9/11 20:30 1935 Livehouse Punisher 2019 Autumn Tour Metal ¥ 80 (pre) /100 (at door) 2019/9/13 20:30 Mao Livehouse 2019 Li Shangan Tour ¥120 (stu) / 150 (pre) / Folk 220 for 2 2019/9/13 19:45 Dance ¥80/100/280/380/480/ 2019/9/14 19:30 SNPAC-Opera House Matthew Bourn’s Swan Lake 580/680/880 2019/9/15 14:30 1935 Livehouse [Showcase] Aperture 10th Anniversary: FAZZ/ Mer- Showcase ¥ 120 (pre) /150 (at door) 2019/9/14 20:00 cader/ Train lays on the railway/ WEST BY WEST 2019/9/14 20:30 Sixteen livehouse Dua Tonguan 2019 Tour Folk ¥100 2019/9/20 19:30 SNPAC-Xi’an Concert Hall Game of Thrones: Constantino Carrara Film Music Piano ¥100/180/280/380/480 Piano Concert [Showcase] Aperture 10th Anniversary: Zuriaake / 2019/9/20 20:00 1935 Livehouse Chinese Classic ¥100/180/200 Black_Kirin/ TUMOURBOY 2019/9/25 19:45 BUICK·Shaanxi Opera House International ¥100/280/380/480/ 2019/9/27 19:30 SNPAC – Opera House Opera Co-production Verdi: Rigoletto 680/780/880 2019/9/29 14:30 2019/9/27 20:30 Mao Livehouse Glow Curive Invisible History Indie ¥100 (pre) / 120 (at door) 2018 China Young Artists Platform of Dance 2019/9/28 19:30 SNPAC – Theater Dance ¥60/90/120/160/220 work: 32 Chapters 2019/9/28 20:00 Core Space [Core Space live] Wan Xiaoli 2019 china Tour Folk ¥140 (pre) / 160 (at door) [Core Space live] 2019/9/30 20:00 Core Space POP ¥480 “Portraits” Greyson Chance 2019 Tour 2019/9/30 20:30 1935 Livehouse ¥249 (pre) / 299 (at door) / M_DSK X M-LAB YoungJack 2019 Tour Hip Hop 349 (VIP) Sir Simon Rattle/ Emanuel Ax and London Symphony ¥280/580/780/980/1180 2019/10/2 13:30 SNPAC-Xi’an Concert Hall Symphony Orchestra Concert /1380/1580 * All information is subject to change. Check Xianease or Venue WeChat accounts for up-to-date info www.xianease.com 23
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You and your family are welcome to experience our top international private medical excellence, and you will enjoy: 1. Barrier-free international special medical services Qujiang obstetrics and gynecology outpatient medical staff have English, German, Japanese, Russian and other languages expertise, and provide bilingual customer service throughout your treatment with ease and convenience. Your privacy, lifestyle and religious beliefs are fully respected. 2. 24-hour exclusive 3. Support global medical care commercial insurance You can choose your own experts More than 50 international to strictly monitor your pregnancy. commercial insurance companies A private medical team of 10 people around the world have access to each provides 24-hour round-the-clock other, making medical insurance service to meet all your needs, both reimbursement more convenient. physical to psychological. 4. Customized delivery plan The Qujiang Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital has 5 leading international painless delivery forms, based on your preferences, you can choose water delivery, LDR delivery, new painless doula delivery, free position delivery, fine needle improved cesarean section and more, to continuously improve your delivery experience. www.xianease.com 25
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太华路 N X�’�� D������� Xinghuo Lu 丰禾 路 自强西路 自强东路 Ziqiang Xi Lu Ziqiang Dong Lu D E F G H I www.xianease.com i Lu gX qin Hua Taihua Lu 9 (SHANG WU MEN) TRAIN STATION Changying Xi Lu 长缨西路 Huancheng Bei Lu 环城 北路 Xinghuo Lu 5 NORTH GATE Shuncheng Bei Lu 顺城北路 Shuncheng Bei Lu 顺城北路 (BEI MEN) Xi 8 Lu 西八路 Dong 8 Lu 东八路 Xixie Lu Xiwu Yuan Yaowang Dong 药王洞 Xi 7 Lu Xi 7 Lu 西七路 Dong 7 Lu 东七路 Xi Bei 3 Lu Beixin Jie 10 Kangfu Lu Lixin Jie Hou Zai Men 后宰门 GE MING Dong 6 Lu 西北三路 Qingnian Lu 青年路 PARK (CHAO YANG MEN) (YU XIANG MEN) Laodong Bei Lu 6 莲湖路 Xiwu Lu 西五路 Changle Xi Lu Lianhu Lu Daqing Lu Shangde Lu 尚 德 路 Shangjian Lu 尚 俭 路 Shangqin Lu 尚 勤 路 大庆路 长乐西路 LIAN HU Dong 4 Lu PARK Xushi Miao Jie Dong 3 Lu 东三路 Yongle Lu 11 陕西省政府 Xiangmi Yuan SHAANXI SOFITEL XI’AN ON Xi Cang Dong 2 Lu 东二路 PEOPLE’S RENMIN SQUARE Sajin Qiao洒 金 桥 西仓 Huancheng Dong Lu Maixian Jie Beikuo Men GOVERNMENT HOTEL Xi Hua Men Xixin Jie 西新路 Dongxin Jie 东新路 (XIAO DONG MEN) Huancheng Xi Lu环 城 Fang Jiefang Lu解 放 路 Miaohou Jie Xiyang Shi Changle Beima Dao Xiang 北 马 道 巷 铁塔 寺 路 西路 Tietasi Lu Bei Da Jie (North Street) 7 回民街 Shuncheng Dong Lu Xiyi Lu 西一路 Dong 1 Lu 东 一 路 12 Suoluo Xiang Huimin Jie 环城东路 Bei Guang Ji Jie北 广 济 街 Xiju Yuan Xiang Gengxin Jie Daxue Xi Xiang Damai Shi Jie Xiguan Zhengjie Xi Da Jie (West Street) 西大街 Dong Da Jie (East Street) 东 大街 Dongguan Zhengjie WEST GATE Dongsan EAST GATE (XI MEN) Dao Xiang (DONG MEN) Juhua Yuan ng Dongya Qiao Zi Kou Jianguo Duanlu Men Shi Dongting Men 4 Xiang 13 Dong Bangzi Shi Jie Wuxing Jie Wuwei Dongmutou Shi 8 Shi Zi Fen Xiang 粉巷 Nan Xiao Xiang 德福巷 Jianguo Lu建 国 路 XING QING Dongguan Nanjie Heping Lu和 平 路 Defu Xiang Tian Shui Jing Nan Guang Ji Jie 南 广 济 街 Kaitong Xiang Baishu Lin PARK Xiancang Xiang Dongcang Men 南小巷 Nanma Dao Xiang南 马 道 巷 Xingqing Xilu Bao En Si Jie Jie Shuncheng Nan Lu (XING QING 下马 陵 东关南街 Xiangzi Miao Xia Ma Ling Shuncheng Nan Lu 顺 城南 路 Shuncheng Nan Lu GONG YUAN) (XIAO NAN MEN) Nan Da Jie (South Street) Huancheng Nan Lu 环城南路 Xiangning Xi Lu 咸宁西路 14 Fengqing Lu 丰庆 路 Huancheng Nan Lu (WEN CHANG MEN) (HE PING MEN) (HAN GUANG MEN) (ZHU QUE MEN) 27 9 SOUTH GATE Anxi Jie Leju Chan Jingjiu Lu Taiyi Lu Yanta Beilu Andong Jie g Zhuque Da Jie Taibai Bei Lu (NAN MEN) Hanguang Lu Wenyi Bei Lu
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环城南路 et) 7 XI’AN PEONY Huancheng Nan Lu Xiangning Xi Lu 咸 宁 西 路 Xiangning Xhong Lu 咸 Fengqing Lu 丰庆路 Huancheng Nan Lu PARK (MU DAN YUAN) SOUTH GATE FENG QING Xishi Bei Lu (NAN MEN) 公园南路 PARK Jiangxi Jie 建 西 街 Jiangdong Jie 建 东 街 劳动南路 Dazhai Lu Xingqing Lu Leju Chang 大寨路 Yanta Beilu Wenyi Bei Lu Jiangong Lu 建 工 路 Hanguang Lu Er Anxi Jie hu Taibai Bei Lu Andong Jie an Jingjiu Lu 经 九 路 Ga Na n Youyi Dong Lu 友谊东路 路 友谊西路 南 oxi Youyi Xi Lu Ga 8 Lu 二 环 n4 oxi Ga - Se Taiyi Lu太 乙 路 Fenghui Nan Lu 沣 惠 南 路 Chang’an Bei Lu Lu th n3 oxi con 06:10-23:00 Ga L 太白北路 www.xianease.com dR Sou u - Ga n2 oxi ing Keji Lu oad Go oxi Lu 含光路 n1 Ro Tuanjie Nan Lu 团 结 南 路 Zhuque Da Jie 朱 雀 大 街 ad i ngR nL ngy Lu R u 科 Tiyuchang Bei Lu - So 技 长安北路 Jiangshe Lu Jiangshe Lu ond 路 Yanta Beilu 路 uan 影 Yan Bai uth Sec 路 西 xi Wenyi Nan Lu 二 u- 龙 sha 环 青 Nan ang Tangxing Lu 唐兴路 Kej i 南 nL g Lu Lu Lu 604 Gu 路 Na X iyin Lu Lu 06:00-20:30 ang uan ng Jing 9 Tangyan Lu唐 延 路 glo Ga hua Lu Er h Qin jiu oxi 光 n 400 华 Lu 雁 Bai Keji 1 Lu 科技一路 06:00-23:00 路 2L 翔 u 路 sha 影 路 Chong Ye Lu 崇 业 路 西 Xiyan Lu 西 雁塔北路 Lu Kej i Lu Yon Yucai Lu 育 才 路 Houcun Xi Lu 后 村 西 路 科技二路 g Lu Cuihua Lu Keji 2 Lu Xingshansi Xijie Xingshansi Dongjie 延路 Kec iyin gso 兴善寺西街 兴善寺东街 Ga Kej h X i uan ng g oxi 1L u n Lu Lu 科技三路 Xiying Lu Lu Keji 3 Lu Xiaozhai Xi Lu 小寨西路 Xiaozhai Dong Lu 小 寨 东 路 北 Tai 高 b Kej 10 i 新 2L u u 永 lu L ai N 路 Dingbai Lu 丁 白 路 Bei 松 Keji 4 Lu 科技 an 路 四路 Lu Furong Xi Lu Bai 雁塔西路 Tuanjie Nan Lu 团 结 南 路 Yanta Xi Lu Yanta Xi Lu 太 Furo Qu sha Dia ng Ya 白 Kej jia Keji 5 Lu 科技 i nzi Don g nx Lu 五路 4L 1 ng 南 u Lu Lu D ia Dianzi Dong Jie 路 Fenghui Nan Lu 沣 惠 南 路 Hongzhuan Nanlu ad ng 电子一路 ao Lu Cien Xilu慈 恩 西 路 Dianzi 1 Lu TANG PARADISE 609 曲 Hanguang Lu含 光 路 06:00-00:00 (DA TANG - Fu 江 FU RONG YUAN) ro 大 Keji 6 Lu Keji 6 Lu 科 技 六 路 Dianzi 2 Lu 电子二路 Dianzi 2 Lu Qingsong Lu Yannan 1 Lu Yannan 1 Lu n gD 道 11 on XI’AN MARTYRS’ Furong Nan Lu gL F u Huan - ur CEMETERY Xi’an iSchool 芙 Nan San on Keji 7 Lu Dianzi 3 Lu 蓉 g Changming Lu Changming Lu Chang’an Nan Lu 长 安 南 路 (XI’AN LIE SHI 东 Xi 路 Cuihua Lu 翠 华 路 Tangyan Lu LING YUAN) Ta Lu ib Keji 8 Lu Dianzi 4 Lu 电子四路 Mingde 1 Lu Yannan 2 Lu Qujiangchi Bei Lu ai Yannan 3 Lu Na n Zhuque Da Jie 朱 雀 大 街 Mingde 2 Lu 明德二路 Shida Lu Lu Dongyi Lu东 仪 路 QU JIANG CHI Furong Xi Lu PARK Hanyao Lu 寒窑路 Miaopotou Lu 唐延路 12 Zhangba Xi Lu Zhangba Dong Lu 丈 八 东 路 Zhangba Dong Lu 丈 八 东 路 Xinkaimen Nan lu Yanzhan Lu 雁 展 路 Yanta Nanlu Yannan 4 Lu Xi'a Qujiangchi Xi Lu曲 江 池 西 路 Dianzi Zheng Jie 电 子 正 街 Qujiangchi Dong Lu曲 江 池 东 路 YONG YANG PARK SHAANXI 新开门南路 TV TOWEI 雁塔南路 Jinye Lu 锦业路 Faithful Language School (SHAANXI DIAN SHI TA) Qujiangchi Nan Lu 曲江池南路 Xife Zhangba 2 Lu Zhangba 1 Lu ng Jinye 1 Lu Changan Xi lu 长安西路 Zi Wu Da Dao 芙蓉西路 Lu Chunlin 1 Lu 春临一路 Xi'an Highway 西安绕城 13 高速 Nan San Huan - Thi 春临二路 rd Ring Ro ad - South 南 三 环 Chunlin 2 Lu Ya u 雁环中路 ny 丈八二路 西沣 gL Chunlin 3 Lu 春临三路 in G65 Baom on 金滹沱一路 路 Jinye 2 Lu h Y362 Yanhuan Zhong Lu Jinhutuo 1 Lu Go nZ ng ua L h u 雁 Gong Gongti ao Exp Jinye 3 Lu Yan 春临四路 Yanta Nanlu Gongtian 2 Lu 引 公田 金滹沱二路 公 Y362 雁环中路 Jinhutuo 2 Lu 路 Lu tian 3 六路 an 6 Lu y包 茂 an Lu 14 Chunlin 4 Lu 高速 道 Duy 雁塔南路 大 Gongtian 5 Lu公 田 五 路 XLIS, Xi’an Chang’an N 天 Dongyi Lu东 仪 路 航 公田三路 International 西部大道 航天大道 Hang Tian Da Dao 杜雁路 Zi Wu Da Dao 子 午 大 道 Xibu Da Dao Hang Tian Da Dao community an Lu Xibu Da Dao 西部大道 06:10-23:15 06:11-23:11 29 He Xibu Da Dao 西 部 大 道 Di Lu W��� T� A�������� Y��� B������� O� T�� X������� M��? 河堤 路 E����: sales@xianease.com �� C���: 134-8463-9040 She Shenzhou
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Sponsored A Positive Journey at Canopy by Hilton Chengdu City Centre C anopy by Hilton is the first Hilton from East Chengdu Railway Station. each guest room is equipped with a lifestyle hotel brand, committed Serta mattress, which is complemented to providing guests with a The hotel integrates the local with a ZoneActive™ 5-Zone Foam positive stay. In 2014, in Reykjavik, culture and architectural elements Topper for the right amount of support Iceland, the world’s northernmost of Chengdu and becomes a natural and Serta Cool Balance® Technology capital, the first Canopy by Hilton Hotel extension of the neighborhood. for optimal temperature control. opened a live tour of the world of ice Guests can effortlessly explore Guests can also enjoy a 55-inch HDTV, and snow. From Iceland, the United Sichuan Grand Theatre, night markets Nespresso® coffee machine, cozy States and Croatia, Canopy by Hilton and other amazing places of interest. bathrobe, internationally renowned has brought its energy all the way to People’s Park, Chengdu Museum and niche high-end bath products and Chengdu, the Land of Abundance. In vibrant Chunxi road and other scenic complimentary standard Wi-Fi. nine distinctive urban communities, spots are just a stone’s throw away. Canopy by Hilton provides travel Within a kilometer walking distance, Start your day with an Artisanal and social lovers from all over the you can check out “The Way of the Breakfast at TC Café, or have a breakfast world to actively integrate into local Dragon” and some other famous hot bag delivered to your door. TC Café communities, explore the city’s culture pot of the city. Go to Wide and Narrow offers a variety of delicacies, including and life, and live together like a native Alley, taste a cup of green tea at Zhu western breakfasts, homemade local people. Ye Qing tea house and enjoy a leisure noodles, a selection of light bites and afternoon. Chengdu’s renowned Long Chaoshou As the first Canopy by Hilton hotel in wonton soup. At night, there are the Asia-Pacific region, Canopy by From the canopy over the bed to delicate food sharing plates featuring Hilton Chengdu City Centre is located “uncloseted” closet, 150 The Just-Right east-meets-west concept to create at No. 5 Xiyu Street, Qingyang District, Rooms are designed specifically for a a unique dining experience. Enjoy adjacent to Tianfu Square, the core more positive and comfortable stay. a vigorous afternoon tea at Canopy business and cultural area of Chengdu. Rooms range in size from 45 to 100 Lounge, sitting behind the French The hotel is only a 20-minute drive square meters to meet all kinds of window and enjoy the skyline view accommodation needs. In addition, 32 xianease
of Tianfu Square. When night falls, and the city lights turn on, join in the Evening Tasting for a complimentary tasting of local craft beer or signature cocktails, which reflect the essence of Chengdu. Located at the 32nd floor of the 成都领地希尔顿嘉悦里酒店 hotel, the naturally lit Fitness Center overlooks the city skyline and is equipped with a boxing ring, state- Canopy by Hilton of-the-art Technogym® training equipment and free weights. The Chengdu City Centre hotel also innovatively provided a “Transfer Lounge”, where guests with 中国四川省成都市青羊区西御 街5号 early arrivals or late departures can use comfortable facilities including luggage lockers and a private No. 5 Xiyu Street, Qingyang changing room with shower. District, Chengdu, 610031, Staying at Canopy by Hilton Chengdu Sichuan, China 详询:+86 28 6521 6666 City Centre is not only about staying in a hotel, but also about integrating into the local community and positively exploring the city’s culture and life. canopybyhilton.com.cn/ You will feel as alive as the wonderful chengdu city of Chengdu. www.xianease.com 33
Travel trekking the Himalayas Article by Sammy Pryse I want to recommend the most amazing holiday destination to you all, the Annapurna mountain range in the Himalayas, Nepal. Better than a beach, guaranteed to be better than anything you have ever experienced, if you can allow the rooftop of the world to rock your mind and feed your soul. It has pine forests, succulent tropical rainforests, dry arid deserts and rich green rolling hills all in one area. The majestic Annapurna mountain range is a collection of five mountains within the Himalayas stand majestically waiting for trekkers all year round and are one of the most famous trekking ranges due to their enormous size and accessibility, suitable for all types of trekkers, due to the roads that the Nepali government has built along the way. If you want to go hardcore and take a twelve-to-sixteen-day trip around the entire range you can, but if you prefer a more leisurely walk with less intensity you can take a jeep or bus to several stops and walk from there. The government has opened a road along the Annapurna range which allows you to travel to certain areas with vehicles. This gives all types of trekkers the opportunity to trek these mountains. Recommended places to see: The Australian Camp to Poon Hill This trek can take between one and three days depending where you begin and how long it takes you to walk each area. Poon Hill is one of the most sought-after spots due to the views. You can see the famous peaks of the Annapurna mountain range during the peak season (October to April). However, during the monsoon season (June to August) you may be lucky to see the range if the visibility is clear. This trek is not terribly intense and can be managed for those of you who are not so hardcore and would prefer to take it easy along the way. 34 xianease
Upper Pisang Upper Pisang is 2300 meters above sea level on the Northern side and was my favourite place on the whole Annapurna circuit due to the magnificent mauve-coloured sunsets, the views of the mountain ranges and the beautiful Buddhist Nepali people. Here the Nepali people are dressed traditionally in black with colorful scarves on their bodies, their faces worn with the heat of the sun and the harsh mountain life, but filled with genuine love and smiles. In their hands they held the wooden Buddhist prayer beads speaking out the “‘Om Mani Pedi Om” mantra. A new Buddhist monastery sat perched on top of one of the highest hills in this beautiful mountain town. The monastery will give you a taste of Lhasa with the heartwarming welcoming sounds of Tibetan horns and drums. This town is a must see. There are an array of beautiful pine wooden guests houses that provide snuggly beds and delicious, organically grown food. You can literally taste the love. Manang Manang is 3500 metres above sea level and lays on the Northern side of the Annapurna range. This mountainous town is simply stunning, with a 360-degree view of this extraordinary mountain range. The trek to Manang is quite easy, with some flat landscapes, idyllic country gardens, stones, flowers, valleys and pine trees. Here you can take the opportunity to laze about your days on rooftops, staring out at the remarkable views or, if you are lucky, taking in the culture of the traditional mountain pony races that occur in the valley at the bottom of the town, approximately a ten minute walk away from the town centre. Manang is the last place on the northern part of the mountains where vehicles can pass. This means trekking or pony riding is one of the only possible ways to reach the Thorong la Pass through Manang. It is also the last place you can stock up on cheap goods, with a large convenience store that sells most everything you need, including cheap food and chocolate. Probably the cheapest store on the entire trek! This town had a Wild West vibe, while being relaxing and beautiful with its cobblestone paths and houses. Thorong La Pass This is a must do if you wish to push yourself to do the hardcore trek. You need to be fit and be prepared for the altitude sickness. I experienced dizzy spells and headaches from Manang to Thorong La Pass despite taking medication. Going from 3500 meters to 5700 meters in two days is not recommended. However, the hike up the mountain is a test of your mettle, and reaching the summit is definitely one of the highlights of the Annapurna circuit. Reaching the pass from Thorong Pedi took six hours. The climb was steep and difficult, particularly so with the altitude issues arising. However, you can definitely celebrate a human achievement upon reaching the summit of the Annapurna Mountain range and climbing through the world’s highest mountain pass. www.xianease.com 35
Travel Kagbeni Kagbeni is famous for its dry canyons and huge river ways. It’s 86 kilometres south of Tibet. Reaching Kagbeni from Tibet in a car is a possibility, if coming through China, though I believe you need special permits. The beauty of Kagbeni lay in the landscape. It is complete with arid enclosed river canyons, dirty dusty valleys and magnificent browns in the landscape. The river bed was filled with gushing water and beautiful stones, rocks, boulders and fossilized mollusks. The valley had a strong harsh wind, and the riverbed a fierce river. However, the dusty beauty of this desert region really vivified my senses and was such a juxtaposition to the Northern side of the Annapurna range. It was stunning. Tatopani Tatopani has the most beautiful views of narrowly woven paths along green jagged mountain edges and the most famous hot springs on the circuit. Tatopani will offer you something deliciously relaxing and calm. It’s approximately 2600 metres above sea level and is beside a rumbling, tumbling, ferociously happy river. Here you can enjoy the delights of apple pies while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains of Annapurna I, II, III, IV and Dhaulagiri while hearing the gushing of the river as it flows through the town. Getting to Nepal from Xi’an Tibetan Air has flights from Xi’an direct to Kathmandu for approximately 1500 RMB one-way. The flight takes four and a half hours and includes meals and you can take 23 kilograms of luggage. From Kathmandu you will need to take a bus to Pokhara or Besisahar to begin trekking up the Annapurna range. These buses can be ordered through your guest houses in Kathmandu, for approximately 1000 Nepalese Rupees. What Do I Need to Bring? Equipment for June - August trekking · You will need a sturdy strong backpack. I ordered mine on Taobao. Make sure the pack has a cushion protecting your shoulders and I would recommend a capacity of at least 70 litres. 36 xianease
What you need: · A thick down sleeping bag this can · Two lightweight trekking t-shirt you be rented from either Kathmandu or can buy these in Kathmandu for 1500 Pokhara for as little as 150 rupees a day rupees each (I only used it on the top of the pass for a total of three days, but it is a must have)· Two lightweight trekking shorts you can buy these in Kathmandu for 1500 · A thick down jacket. This can be rented rupees each from Kathmandu or Pokhara for as little as 150 rupees a day (if you are doing · Five pairs of thick trekking sock, which Thorong La Pass you will be grateful for can also be purchased in Kathmandu · Stocking sockets to protect your feet this jacket) · Waterproof pants and jacket you from leeches. These are worn under your can rent these or purchase them for regular socks to provide an extra layer approximately 1500 rupees per item of cushioning and make it difficult for leeches to get their nasty little suckers · Hiking boots should be two sizes too into your feet big because your feet will swell. I bought the cheapest ones possible from a store · A drink bottle so that you can fill up on in Besisahar, they were Goldstar brand water along the trek and cost 2500 rupees Medicines: Other Important You are recommended to purchase all of these things in Kathmandu Things · Sanitary pads these can be used for · A battery pack phone charger (most all kinds of things but in particularly for of the guest houses have power outages wounds on your feet during the trek each day so this comes in handy to · A bottle of dettol to soak your feet charge your phone and camera and any other small electronic devices) after each day. It really made the biggest difference to my feet which were red, · Duct tape (this can be used for all kinds blistered and cut up from trekking. of things on your trek) · Band-aids for all kinds of cuts and · Nepalese SIM card (if you lose your wounds phone or if the power is out you will · Diamox - Altitude sickness tablets I need one of these) took these as I began getting dizzy at · Night light/torch (If you plan on doing 2300 meters above sea level. I took them the Thorong La Pass you will be walking at night and found they made me have in the dark on steep mountain cliffs) a deep sleep. · Map of the Annapurna circuit (this · Panadol or Tylenol to help block out can be purchased in a bookstore in the pain of the altitude sickness Kathmandu or Pokhara) · Diarrhea tablets. I didn’t experience any stomach issues, but there is the possibility of falling ill and a preventative measure is a must-have. · Water purification tablets will come in handy for those of you willing to fill your bottles up at the local wells www.xianease.com 37
Community Travel Partners Trekking for days on end is a very personal experience. It is important to go with someone you trust. You should discuss and agree on your budgets and the number of hours, days and types of trek you would like to pursue. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it by reading your own map you can hire a guide to accompany you. However, the circuit is definitely easy enough to trek without a guide or porter. The Nepali people are very friendly and helpful when you get stuck and need to know where to go and there are signs along most of the trail. Food Trekking takes a lot out of you so expect to eat up big. Some of the mountain Trekking Permits Money towns offer an array of meals such as Mexican burritos and lasagna, covered You will need to purchase two separate Nepali Rupees can easily be exchanged in yak cheese. However, the majority of permits. One is the TIMS Permit (Trekkers with RMB at a money changer in family guest houses mostly provide the Information Management System Kathmandu or Pokhara. The rate is 1600 traditional Nepalese food of Dahl Baht booklet). This is your passport to trek. The Nepali Rupees for 100 RMB (July 2019). (a curry lentil set plate with rice and other is the ACAP (Annapurna Sanctuary Changing Chinese money anywhere flat chapati bread) and Momos (Nepali Permit). This piece of paper seemed to be on the Annapurna circuit is impossible. steamed dumplings). Much of the food the most important one, providing vital There are ATM machines located along is vegetarian and almost everywhere information to the police along the way. some of the larger towns where money it is grown locally and has the most In most of the towns there is a police can be withdrawn with your Chinese impressive organic flavour and you office where you need to go to check in bank card, but only the Himalayan Bank can literally taste the love and patience your details. The two permits in total cost and Bank Nabil allow you to access China that went into making it. The food was 5000 Nepali rupees. You can ask your Unionpay. I would advise you to prepare definitely a highlight for me. On some guest house in Kathmandu, Pokhara or approximately 5000 rupees per day for days the people would spend up to one Besisahar where you can purchase these accommodation costs and food. If you and a half hours cooking the food, but it permits. The office hours are from 8am are taking a guide and porter you will was this commitment and your hungry until 4pm. You will need four passport need more. The ATM machines will take belly that made it taste even more photos for all of these permits. a fee of 500 rupees for each withdrawal sumptuous. transaction that you do. It is advisable to have some US dollars on hand for emergency purposes. This currency is Visa easily exchangeable along the mountain range. The Nepalese visa is obtainable in the Nepalese airport. It must be paid in US dollars and costs US$25 for 30 days. You simply fill out a form and scan your passport in the airport. Embrace your adventurous nature and feed the soul of your inner-child. A trip to this part of the world will awaken your senses and improve your physique. A must-go destination! Sammy Pryse is a teacher at XLIS and world traveler. 38 xianease
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