Pioneering New Paths in China: Lijiang - Emerging Adventurers
I have never placed much emphasis on the total number of countries I’ve visited, even though this is significant for many travelers. Instead, I am much more interested in the variety of unique locations I’ve experienced, even if that’s harder to monitor. National borders often reflect political decisions that have a fragile connection to the rich cultures and societies within them. When Yugoslavia divided into six countries, did those who had traveled to all six prior to this separation suddenly become more seasoned travelers just by staying home? If Scotland had separated from the United Kingdom, would all who had visited feel a boost of pride for adding another country to their list? I would prefer to explore new regions of Italy, Brazil, or China rather than make my first trip to a nondescript Caribbean destination like the Bahamas, which wouldn’t present anything I haven't already encountered in Jamaica or Trinidad. I find that I feel more thrilled when I arrive in a new province of China than when visiting most new countries because I am more confident that I will have completely new and intriguing experiences. That was the mindset I had as we touched down in Lijiang, our first destination in my debut visit to Yunnan province.
