The Trekking Pawns' Diary

  If you’re not an experienced hiker or prefer not to hike alone, then a Great Wall of China tour might be the perfect option for you. Here's everything you need to know to decide whether a tour is worth it: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Types of Tours The Great Wall of China offers a range of tour options tailored to different preferences: Private Tours : Enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated guide who caters to your interests and pace. Group Tours : A budget-friendly option that also provides a chance to socialize with fellow travelers. Multi-Day Tours : For those looking to deeply immerse themselves, these tours often include exploration of additional cultural and historic sites in China. Benefits of Tours Opting for a guided tour can enhance your experience in several ways: Expert Knowledge : Gain valuable insights ab...

  When planning your trip to the Great Wall, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. Here’s an overview of your accommodation options: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Hotels : From budget-friendly choices to luxury retreats, hotels near the Wall offer a range of amenities to suit every traveler. Popular options include: Brickyard Retreat at Mutianyu Great Wall : This eco-friendly hotel combines modern comfort with stunning views. DoubleTree by Hilton Beijing Badaling : Enjoy world-class hospitality and breathtaking Wall vistas. Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel : Perfect for travelers looking for an immersive stay near the Wall. Hostels: Ideal for budget-conscious adventurers, hostels offer affordable stays with a social vibe, often perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Guesthouses : Guesthouses are an excellent choice ...

  Whether it’s your first time visiting the Great Wall or you’re a seasoned traveler, preparation is key to making the most of this iconic experience . Here are some essential tips to ensure your visit is both enjoyable and memorable. ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) What to Wear The Great Wall’s terrain can be challenging, so choosing the right attire is crucial. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for steep climbs. Summer: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are best to combat the heat. Winter: Layer up with warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Don’t forget gloves and a hat! Year-Round: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves to protect against the sun’s rays. What to Bring Pack smart for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Water: Stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning a ...

  Hiking the Great Wall of China is a once-in-a-lifetime experience , offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a rewarding challenge. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure: ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Hiking Difficulty Hiking the Great Wall can be demanding, so it's essential to select a section that aligns with your fitness level. Some areas are steep with uneven steps, requiring a good level of physical preparation. Assess your hiking abilities and choose wisely for an enjoyable experience. Best Hiking Routes Each section of the Great Wall provides unique scenery and challenges. Consider these top hiking routes: Jiankou to Mutianyu : Ideal for experienced hikers, this route offers awe-inspiring views and a mix of wild and restored sections. Jinshanling to East Gate : Known for its ico...

  ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) 1. Badaling Badaling is the most famous and frequently visited section of the Great Wall of China , located just 43 miles from Beijing . Its well-preserved structure and accessibility have made it a favorite among tourists since it opened to visitors in 1957. With steep walls and numerous guard towers to explore, this section offers a classic Great Wall experience . However, it tends to be crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan your visit accordingly. 2. Mutianyu If you’re seeking stunning views and a less crowded experience, Mutianyu is a fantastic option. Situated about 45 miles from Beijing, this section boasts remarkable scenery and recently restored architecture. Visitors can either hike up to the wall or take a cable car for a more leisurely ascent. Mutianyu’s charm lies in its balance of...

Planning a trip to the Great Wall of China can feel overwhelming. With so many factors to consider, deciding on the best time to visit might seem daunting. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, including the best months for ideal weather, sightseeing , and budget-friendly travel . ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Quick Summary: Best Time to Visit the Great Wall of China Best Weather: May to October, with spring and autumn being particularly mild and comfortable. Avoid July and August if you dislike heat and humidity. Best for Sightseeing: April, May, June, September, October, and early November. Best for Honeymooners: May, June, September, and October. Best Day of the Week to Visit the Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China is open seven days a week, all year long. However, if yo...

Planning a trip to the Great Wall of China can feel overwhelming. With so many factors to consider, deciding on the best time to visit might seem daunting. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, including the best months for ideal weather, sightseeing , and budget-friendly travel . ( Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) Quick Summary: Best Time to Visit the Great Wall of China Best Weather: May to October, with spring and autumn being particularly mild and comfortable. Avoid July and August if you dislike heat and humidity. Best for Sightseeing: April, May, June, September, October, and early November. Best for Honeymooners: May, June, September, and October. Factors to Consider Weather and Climate The Great Wall, located in northern China, experiences distinct seasons. Winters can be freezi...

Go City New Orleans Pass When it comes to planning a day in New Orleans , it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There’s so much to see and do in this vibrant city, from the historic streets of the French Quarter to the hauntingly beautiful cemeteries, bustling markets, and swamp tours that take you deep into the Louisiana bayou. Add in the countless tours and attractions, and you might find yourself asking: How do I make the most of my time and budget here? That’s where the Go City New Orleans Pass enters the conversation. We’ve been debating whether this pass is a good fit for our day in New Orleans, and after diving into the details, here’s what we think. What is the Go City New Orleans Pass? Essentially, this pass offers admission to a curated list of New Orleans’ top attractions , covering everything from swamp tours to cooking classes and even the city’s famous bus tours. It’s designed to save you money if you plan to see multiple attractions, all while streamlining the ticket-buying pr...

  Our planned walking path to see the most and eat the most. New Orleans is a feast for the senses and a paradise for food lovers. With a cuisine rooted in Creole traditions, a vibrant history of cultural blending, and a wave of international influences, the Crescent City is a culinary playground unlike any other. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, rich flavors, or innovative spins on classic dishes, here are the must-visit spots to savor the essence of New Orleans. Our walking path was inspired by the Lonely Planet and mapped for maximum flavor and time to digest while sightseeing. Another option is to book a lovely food tour! Saba , 5757 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Mister Mao , 4501 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Pascal's Manale by Dickie Brennan & Co., 1838 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 Lucy Boone Ice Cream , 3918 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Stein's Market and Deli , 2207 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 Parkway Bakery & Tavern...

9th Ward, New Orleans East & Gentilly | New Orleans As we prepare to embark on our cruise from New Orleans, we’ve decided to arrive two nights early to immerse ourselves in the city’s magic before setting sail. One night will be all about catching up on rest after a late-night flight, but the next day, we’re diving into exploring this vibrant city. With so many distinct neighborhoods to choose from, we’re planning to visit a different one each day to help us decide where we’d want to stay or explore further . Today, let’s talk about the fascinating and resilient neighborhoods of Gentilly , New Orleans East , and the Lower Ninth Ward . Gentilly: Resilient Charm and Diverse Culture Gentilly, nestled on the eastern edge of New Orleans, is a neighborhood with stories to tell. It’s close to the University of New Orleans and has a historic gem in Pontchartrain Park , one of the city’s oldest African-American neighborhoods. What We’re Excited About Lakefront Views : With its proximity t...

Image: New Orleans Uptown & The Garden District | New Orleans Deciding Where to Stay in NOLA As we gear up for our next big adventure—a cruise out of New Orleans—we’re taking the opportunity to spend two nights in the Big Easy before setting sail. It’s always smart to arrive a day early to avoid any last-minute travel hiccups, but why stop at just one day? We’re coming in late the first night, catching some Zs, and then diving headfirst into exploring this magical city. But first, we need to decide where to stay. Each neighborhood in New Orleans offers something unique, so we’re breaking it down and considering doing one neighborhood a day before settling on our favorite. Let’s take a look at what makes the Lower Garden District , Irish Channel , and Uptown/Carrollton neighborhoods shine. Lower Garden District The Lower Garden District is a feast for the senses. With streets that radiate charm and an artistic, offbeat vibe, it’s easy to see why this neighborhood is a favorite....

  Credit:  Warehouse District | New Orleans Arriving in New Orleans two nights before our cruise isn’t just a travel precaution—it’s an opportunity to immerse ourselves in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. We’re rolling in late the first night, but day two is reserved for exploration. After some research, the Warehouse District has caught our attention as a potential place to stay and play . This neighborhood, also known as the Arts District , is where New Orleans’ industrial past collides beautifully with its creative present. From museums to trendy restaurants and rooftop pools, the Warehouse District offers a mix of grit and glam that’s hard to resist. Why the Warehouse District Stands Out The Warehouse District has transformed from a 19th-century industrial hub into a hotspot for art, culture, and food. Its streets are lined with converted warehouses, now home to galleries, loft apartments, and award-winning restaurants. What We Love About It: Art Lover’s Pa...