Epic 8-Day Hexi Corridor Adventure: Unveiling Ancient China

Okay, so, let’s talk about China’s Northwest. For ages, I’ve seen all these stunning photos online, all these travel vlogs raving about the “epicness” of the Silk Road. And honestly, a part of me was like, “Is it really that epic? Or is it just another echo chamber effect, everyone confirming what everyone else says?” Well, let me tell you, after my recent 8-day Hexi Corridor Adventure this past March, I’m officially a believer. It’s not just epic; it’s a profound journey through history and nature that genuinely blew my mind. I flew into Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu province, a few months ago, camera in hand, ready for whatever this ancient route threw at me. And boy, did it deliver!

As someone who oscillates between coffee shop chic and thrift store cool, I love mixing high and low—whether it’s an outfit or a weekend plan. This trip was no different. I wanted to experience the raw, authentic Hexi Corridor Adventure but also knew where to splurge for that little bit of comfort. You see, before any trip, I always make two budget plans: a “refined vibe” option and a “cost-effectiveness” option. This time, I tried to blend them, adapting my style day-by-day. My best friend gave me this vintage camera for my 25th birthday, and it’s been my trusty companion on every trip since. Taking photos with it on this journey felt extra special, capturing moments that felt both ancient and incredibly present. I mean, how often do you get to walk in the footsteps of emperors and merchants from literally thousands of years ago? It’s intense, in the best way possible. This was more than just a trip; it was a deep dive into China’s soul, a truly transformative Hexi Corridor Adventure.

Day 0: Arrival in Lanzhou – Kicking Off My Hexi Corridor Adventure

Landing in Lanzhou felt like stepping into a different world. The air had a crisp, slightly arid scent, a stark contrast to the humid cities I’m used to. My flight was fairly smooth, and getting through customs was surprisingly efficient. I’d heard stories about Chinese airports, but Lanzhou’s was quite modern. From the airport, I hailed a taxi, which was easy enough, but I already had Amap: China’s Best Mobile Map Application downloaded on my phone, which was a lifesaver for navigating and showing my driver the hotel address. Seriously, if you’re coming to China, get it. It’s like Google Maps but actually works perfectly here. The drive into the city gave me my first glimpse of the Yellow River, snaking its way through the landscape. It’s not “yellow” in the way you might imagine, more of a muddy, earthy brown, but undeniably powerful. The city itself felt bustling, a mix of old and new buildings, reflecting China’s rapid development. I checked into a mid-range hotel that offered a decent balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. Nothing too fancy, but clean and well-located. After settling in, I decided to take a short stroll to stretch my legs and grab some dinner. My first goal? Lanzhou Beef Noodles, of course. It’s a must-try for anyone starting their Hexi Corridor Adventure.

I found a small, local noodle shop packed with people. The aroma alone was intoxicating. I pointed at a picture on the wall, and within minutes, a steaming bowl of noodles arrived. Thin, hand-pulled noodles, clear beef broth, tender slices of beef, radishes, and a sprinkle of coriander and chili oil. It was perfection. Warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. The energy in the small eatery was vibrant, a genuine slice of local life. I always try to immerse myself in the local food scene, it’s such a crucial part of understanding a culture. This was definitely a good start to my Hexi Corridor Adventure. I went back to my hotel feeling content and excited for the days ahead, ready to truly embark on this epic journey.

Day 1: Lanzhou City – Yellow River’s Embrace and Ancient History

My first full day in Lanzhou began with another bowl of those amazing beef noodles for breakfast. Seriously, I could eat them every day. Today was all about getting acquainted with the city, the true gateway to any Hexi Corridor Adventure. My initial plan was to hit the Gansu Provincial Museum, and it was a solid choice. The museum is a treasure trove, especially for understanding the Silk Road and the region’s rich history. I spent hours wandering through exhibits, marveling at ancient pottery, bronze artifacts, and Buddhist sculptures. The most famous piece, the “Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow” (Ma Ta Feiyan), was even more impressive in person than in pictures. The craftsmanship is just mind-boggling. It felt like a direct connection to the Han Dynasty, seeing something so ancient and perfectly preserved. It definitely confirmed my belief that this region is steeped in history, a notion I’d picked up from various documentaries.

After the museum, I headed towards the Yellow River. The Zhongshan Bridge, an iron bridge built in the early 20th century, is often called the “First Bridge over the Yellow River.” Walking across it, I could feel the history under my feet. The river itself flows with a quiet power, and seeing the locals relaxing by its banks, fishing, or just strolling, gave me a sense of peace. I even spotted some sheep skin rafts, a traditional mode of transport, bobbing gently on the water. It’s these small, authentic moments that really make a trip special, you know? I took a bunch of photos with my vintage camera here, trying to capture the blend of old and new that Lanzhou embodies. For lunch, I grabbed some street food – skewers and some local flatbread – very budget-friendly and delicious. In the afternoon, I hiked up to Baita Mountain Park for panoramic views of the city and the Yellow River. It was a bit of a climb, but the views were absolutely worth it. Seeing the city spread out, with the river cutting through it, really put into perspective the importance of this region as a historical crossroads. It’s hard to reconcile the ancient Silk Road narratives with the modern, bustling city, but Lanzhou manages to hold both identities with grace. This day truly solidified my excitement for the rest of the Hexi Corridor Adventure.

Day 2: Stepping Back in Time – Yongtai Ancient City and Tianshan Grottoes

Day two was a big one, a real journey into the heart of the Hexi Corridor Adventure. I decided to rent a car for this leg, as public transport can be a bit tricky in some of the more remote areas. This is where the “flexible switching” aspect of my travel style really comes in handy. Sometimes, you gotta splurge for convenience, especially when time is limited. Our first stop was Yongtai Ancient City, often called “Turtle City.” Man, this place is something else. It’s a Ming Dynasty military fortress, built in 1608 to defend against invasions. From above, it’s shaped like a giant turtle, hence the nickname. It’s incredibly well-preserved, or rather, preserved in its state of beautiful decay. The raw, earthen walls rise dramatically from the flat, arid landscape. Walking through its ancient gates, past the crumbling watchtowers, I felt a genuine sense of awe. The wind whipping through the gaps in the walls almost whispered stories of battles and sieges from centuries past. It’s a powerful, almost melancholic beauty.

What struck me most was the quiet. There weren’t many tourists, which was a bonus for me. It felt like I had the place almost to myself, a true hidden gem. I could hear the wind, the distant bleating of sheep (a “rainbow” moment when a flock passed through one of the gates!), and the crunch of my boots on the dusty ground. It’s listed as one of China’s top ten disappearing landscapes due to natural erosion, which just made me appreciate its existence even more. I snapped some truly atmospheric shots with my vintage camera, trying to capture its fading grandeur. This place is a must-try for any history enthusiast on a Hexi Corridor Adventure. Then it was off to the Tianshan Grottoes. These grottoes are considered the “ancestor of Chinese grotto art,” predating even the famous Mogao Grottoes. Nestled in the mountains, they offer a different, more intimate experience. The scale might be smaller, but the artistry is profound. Seeing the early Buddhist sculptures and murals, some dating back to the Northern Liang Dynasty, was incredible. It felt like uncovering secrets, each cave revealing a new layer of history and devotion. It’s places like these that make you realize just how deep China’s cultural roots go. This was definitely a more “edgy” experience, raw and unfiltered, compared to the more polished tourist sites. It was a perfect blend of the refined and the rugged, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of my Hexi Corridor Adventure.

“The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.” And in Yongtai Ancient City, that past felt incredibly tangible, almost alive. It made me question my own preconceived notions of “ancient” places, confirming that genuine history often comes with a side of graceful decay.

Day 3: Wuwei’s Wonders – Temples, Tombs, and a Flying Horse

Today was all about Wuwei, another historically significant city along the Hexi Corridor Adventure. My morning started at the Jiumoluoshi Temple. This temple is dedicated to Kumarajiva, a revered Buddhist monk who played a pivotal role in translating Buddhist scriptures into Chinese during the 4th and 5th centuries. The temple itself is beautiful, with intricate carvings and serene courtyards. It felt peaceful, a quiet sanctuary from the outside world. I spent some time just sitting, observing the local devotees, and reflecting on the incredible cultural exchange that happened along the Silk Road. It’s truly mind-boggling to think about how ideas and religions traveled such vast distances, shaping cultures along the way. My vintage camera got a good workout here, capturing the vibrant colors and serene atmosphere. This was a moment of “sweet” contemplation in my otherwise “edgy” desert exploration.

After a quick, cheap lunch of local snacks – some delicious steamed buns and a kind of savory pancake – I headed to the Leitai Han Tomb. This is where the famous “Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow” was unearthed! I had seen the replica at the Gansu Provincial Museum, but seeing the actual site where it was discovered added a whole new layer of appreciation. The tomb itself is quite fascinating, offering insights into Han Dynasty burial practices and beliefs. It’s not as grand as some other tombs, but its significance is immense. Standing there, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. This artifact, now a symbol of China’s tourism, came from *here*. It’s almost like a confirmation bias of archaeological importance – you hear about these famous relics, and then seeing their origin validates all the hype. It’s an incredibly cool experience for anyone interested in ancient civilizations and a key highlight of any Hexi Corridor Adventure.

Wuwei, along with Zhangye, Jiuquan, and Dunhuang, formed the “Hexi Four Commanderies” established by Emperor Wu of Han. These were crucial military and administrative outposts that solidified Han China’s control over the Silk Road. Learning about this history on the ground, rather than just reading it in a book, makes it so much more real. It’s like the land itself whispers the stories of those who “listed four counties and held two passes” (列四郡据两关), as the ancient texts say. My inner history nerd was absolutely thriving! I ended the day with a more refined dinner, trying some local lamb dishes that were absolutely heavenly. I even found a cute little notebook to add to my collection – a simple, affordable one, but with a unique local design. It’s one of my little travel habits, collecting these small mementos. Another fantastic day on this incredible Hexi Corridor Adventure.

Day 4: Colors of the Desert – Mati Temple and Zhangye Danxia

Today was a visual feast, a day that truly showcased the diverse beauty of the Hexi Corridor Adventure. We started early, driving towards Zhangye. Our first stop was the Mati Temple Grottoes. Perched precariously on cliff faces, these grottoes are a marvel of ancient engineering and Buddhist devotion. To reach some of the caves, you have to climb through narrow, winding tunnels carved directly into the rock. It’s a bit of a squeeze sometimes, but the reward is incredible. The views from the cliffside temples are breathtaking, overlooking vast valleys and mountains. The murals inside are well-preserved, depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. It felt like stepping into a secret world, a hidden sanctuary. This was definitely an “edgy” experience, pushing my comfort zone with the climbing, but so incredibly rewarding. It’s a unique blend of nature and human endeavor, a testament to the spiritual dedication of the people who created these masterpieces. I tried to capture the scale and serenity with my vintage camera, but some things you just have to see to believe.

The afternoon was reserved for the main event: the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, also known as the “Rainbow Mountains.” I had seen countless photos of this place online, and I was wary of the “echo chamber” effect – would it live up to the hype? Would it be as vibrant in person? I’m here to tell you, it absolutely did. And then some! As the sun began to dip, the colors of the mountains intensified, shifting from deep reds and oranges to vibrant yellows, greens, and blues. It was like nature’s own psychedelic painting. There are several viewing platforms, and each offers a unique perspective. Platform 4, especially, was incredible for sunset. The light hit the undulating layers of rock just right, making the colors pop in a way that my camera, even my trusty vintage one, struggled to fully capture. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. I couldn’t stop smiling. This was definitely a “must-try for XX style” moment, where XX equals “anyone who loves natural beauty.” It’s worth every penny and every minute spent getting there. The sheer scale and vibrancy of the landscape completely confirmed all the positive things I’d heard, shattering any confirmation bias I might have had about it being overhyped. It was genuinely breathtaking. What an incredible day on my Hexi Corridor Adventure!

Day 5: The Western Gate – Jiayuguan Pass

Day five brought me to Jiayuguan Pass, the westernmost end of the Great Wall of China. This fortress is truly imposing, standing defiantly against the vast Gobi Desert. It was once the last major outpost of imperial China, the point of no return for travelers heading west on the Silk Road. The phrase “West of Yangguan, no old friends” (西出阳关无故人) often comes to mind here, though Yangguan is further west. Still, this place has that profound sense of farewell and frontier spirit. Walking along the walls, I could almost hear the echoes of ancient sentries and merchants. The sheer scale of the fortifications, built to withstand nomadic invasions, is incredible. It’s a stark reminder of the strategic importance of the Hexi Corridor Adventure throughout history.

I opted for the combined ticket, which includes the main pass, the Overhanging Great Wall, and the First Beacon Tower. The main pass itself is massive, with multiple gates and watchtowers. I spent a good amount of time exploring every corner, imagining what life must have been like for the soldiers stationed here. The Overhanging Great Wall, built into the side of a mountain, offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. It felt like a dragon’s spine winding its way across the landscape. The First Beacon Tower, though small, marks the very beginning of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall in the west. It’s wild to think that this tiny tower was once a crucial link in a vast communication network. The desolate beauty of the Gobi Desert stretching endlessly in every direction was both humbling and inspiring. I took a moment to just stand there, feeling the wind, and appreciating the sheer human effort that went into building such a monumental structure in such a harsh environment. It was a powerful, almost spiritual experience, a core memory of my Hexi Corridor Adventure. For lunch, I found a local spot with some delicious lamb skewers – a staple in this region and a definite crowd-pleaser.

Day 6: Desert Art and Sculptures – Yulin Grottoes and Son of the Earth

Today was a transition day, moving further west along the Hexi Corridor Adventure towards Dunhuang. Our first significant stop was the Yulin Grottoes. These grottoes are often overshadowed by the more famous Mogao Grottoes, but they are absolutely worth visiting, especially if you appreciate a less crowded, more intimate experience. Many locals even say, “Don’t just praise the beauty of Dunhuang Grottoes; the finest murals are in Yulin.” And I have to say, they might be right! The murals and sculptures here are exquisite, some even predating those at Mogao. The colors and details are remarkably preserved. It felt like I had discovered a secret, a quieter, more contemplative side of Buddhist art. It’s a perfect example of a “hidden gem” that aligns with my “cost-effectiveness” approach, offering immense cultural value without the crowds or higher prices of its more famous counterpart. I highly recommend booking ahead, as access to some caves can be limited, but it’s a “must-try for XX style” if XX is “art history enthusiast.”

The drive through the Gobi Desert from Yulin to Dunhuang was long but mesmerizing. The landscape is vast, barren, and beautiful in its own stark way. It really puts into perspective the immense distances ancient travelers had to cover. Along the way, we stopped at the “Son of the Earth” (大地之子) sculpture near Guazhou. This giant baby’s head, partially buried in the sand, is part of an “Art in the Wilderness” project. It’s a bit quirky, a bit surreal, and definitely makes for some unique photos. I had seen pictures of it online, and the “echo chamber” of social media debates about whether it’s “creepy” or “profound” had me curious. In person? It’s kind of cool. It’s definitely thought-provoking, especially with the vast, empty desert stretching around it. Some people find it unsettling, like “Han Wudi was buried,” but others see the deep artistic meaning. I found it quite striking against the desolate backdrop, especially as the sun started to lower, casting long shadows. It’s a modern artistic intervention in an ancient landscape, a fascinating contrast. This stop added an unexpected, edgy twist to my Hexi Corridor Adventure, reminding me that China is not just ancient history but also a canvas for contemporary expression. For dinner, we reached Dunhuang and indulged in some local donkey meat yellow noodles – surprisingly delicious!

Day 7: Dunhuang’s Dazzling Gems – Mogao Grottoes and Mingsha Mountain

This was it. The culmination of my Hexi Corridor Adventure: Dunhuang. And what a day it was! My morning was dedicated to the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and truly one of the most incredible cultural treasures I have ever witnessed. You HAVE to book your tickets in advance, especially for the special caves. I cannot stress this enough. I booked mine a month out using the official website, and it was a smooth process. The grottoes are a complex of nearly 500 caves carved into a cliff face, filled with Buddhist art spanning over a thousand years. From the 4th to the 14th century, monks, artists, and patrons created a breathtaking collection of murals and sculptures. It’s often called the “Desert Pearl” for a reason.

Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, bringing the history and artistry to life. We visited several standard caves and two special caves, which are truly mind-blowing. The colors, the expressions on the bodhisattvas, the intricate details of the drapery – it’s all so vivid, despite its age. I kept thinking about the sheer dedication, the generations of artists who worked in these dark caves, creating such beauty. It’s humbling. I wasn’t allowed to take photos inside the caves (understandably, to protect the fragile art), so my vintage camera stayed in my bag, but the images are burned into my memory. This was definitely a “refined vibe” experience, the kind where you want to absorb every detail, every brushstroke. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone interested in art, history, or spirituality. The sheer volume and quality of the art here completely validated all the “echo chamber” hype – it truly is one of the world’s greatest artistic achievements.

After a quick lunch, it was time for a completely different kind of wonder: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake. This place is straight out of a fairy tale. Mingsha Mountain, or “Singing Sand Mountain,” is a series of towering sand dunes. And nestled within these golden dunes is Crescent Lake, a freshwater oasis that has sustained itself for thousands of years. It’s a surreal sight, a vibrant green crescent of water surrounded by endless sand. I opted for a camel ride up the dunes, which was such a fun, almost comical experience. My camel, named “Lucky,” was surprisingly gentle. Riding through the dunes as the sun began to set was magical. The sand glowed golden, then orange, then purple. The views from the top of the dunes, looking down at the lake and the surrounding desert, were absolutely spectacular. The atmosphere was pure “sweet and edgy” – the rugged desert softened by the delicate oasis. I took so many photos here with my vintage camera, trying to capture the vastness and the tranquility. It’s definitely a “must-try for XX style” if XX is “unforgettable desert adventure.” The contrast between the ancient art of Mogao and the natural beauty of Mingsha Mountain was the perfect way to cap off this epic Hexi Corridor Adventure.

Day 8: Farewell from Yangguan – Reflections on a Grand Journey

My final day on this incredible Hexi Corridor Adventure began with a visit to Yangguan Pass. This is *the* pass, the one immortalized in ancient Chinese poetry as the point of no return for those heading west. “West of Yangguan, no old friends.” It’s a powerful, evocative place, even though only ruins remain. Standing there, looking out at the vast, empty expanse of the Gobi Desert, I could almost feel the weight of history, the countless farewells, the dreams and dangers of the Silk Road. It’s a poignant reminder of the transient nature of human endeavors against the backdrop of eternal landscapes. It felt like a fitting end to a journey that was so much about connecting with the past. I spent some quiet moments reflecting on everything I had seen and experienced. My confirmation bias about the “rugged beauty” of the Northwest was definitely confirmed, but I also discovered a surprising depth of culture and natural wonder that went beyond my initial expectations.

After Yangguan, it was time to head to Dunhuang airport for my flight back to Lanzhou, and then connect to my international flight. The trip back was filled with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. I leafed through my little collection of local notebooks, each one a tangible memory of a different stop. I also looked through the hundreds of photos on my vintage camera, already planning which ones I’d develop first. This Hexi Corridor Adventure wasn’t just a trip; it was a profound learning experience, a journey that challenged my perceptions and expanded my understanding of China. It’s a place that demands you pay attention, that rewards curiosity, and that leaves an indelible mark on your soul. If you’re considering a trip to China, especially if you’ve never been, I cannot recommend the Northwest enough. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s utterly unforgettable.

Practical Tips for Your Own Hexi Corridor Adventure

• Transportation: For the cities like Lanzhou and Dunhuang, taxis and ride-sharing apps (like Didi, which you can access via WeChat: China’s Essential Communication and Payment App) are convenient. For inter-city travel, high-speed trains (bookable on China Railway Booking Website) are efficient. For exploring the more remote sites like Yongtai Ancient City or the Grottoes, renting a car with a driver or joining a small tour group is highly recommended. It offers flexibility and saves a lot of hassle.
• Accommodation: Lanzhou and Dunhuang offer a range of hotels from budget hostels to more refined options. In smaller towns like Wuwei or Zhangye, choices might be more limited but still comfortable. Always book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Food: Be adventurous! Lanzhou Beef Noodles, lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, donkey meat yellow noodles (don’t knock it till you try it!), and various local snacks are delicious. Don’t forget to try the local fruits, especially melons in the desert regions.
• Climate: The Northwest can be extreme. Expect large temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in spring or autumn. Dress in layers. Summers are hot and dry, winters are freezing. Bring good sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and stay hydrated.
• Booking: For popular sites like Mogao Grottoes, booking tickets well in advance (at least a month) is crucial. Some special caves require separate bookings.
• Connectivity: A local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device is a must. VPN is also essential if you want to access Western social media or Google services.
• Cash vs. Digital: While WeChat Pay and Alipay are dominant, it’s always good to have some cash for smaller vendors or emergencies.

Budget vs. Refined Experience on your Hexi Corridor Adventure

Aspect	Budget-Friendly	Refined Vibe
Accommodation	Hostels, local guesthouses, budget hotels (around $20-40/night)	4-star hotels, boutique hotels (around $80-150/night)
Transportation	Public buses, trains (hard seat/sleeper), shared taxis	Private car with driver, high-speed rail (first class), flights
Food	Street food, local noodle shops, small eateries	Mid-range restaurants, specialized local cuisine, hotel dining
Tours	Group bus tours, self-guided with local transport	Private guided tours, custom itineraries, VIP access
Total Cost (per person, 8 days)	Around $600-900 (excluding international flights)	Around $1500-2500 (excluding international flights)

As you can see, a Hexi Corridor Adventure is truly budget-adaptable. You can tailor it to your preferences without compromising on the incredible experiences. My trip leaned towards the middle, a flexible switching between cost-effectiveness and occasional splurges. I loved the freedom this gave me, allowing me to fully enjoy every moment of this amazing Hexi Corridor Adventure.

My Personal Takeaways and “Echo Chamber” Thoughts

Before this Hexi Corridor Adventure, I’d consumed so much content about China’s Northwest. Instagram reels, travel blogs, documentaries—you name it. There was a strong “echo chamber” effect, where every source seemed to confirm the same narrative: vast, ancient, mysterious. And while all of that is true, what surprised me was the *vibrancy* of life in between the ancient ruins and the desolate landscapes. The bustling markets of Lanzhou, the quiet devotion at Jiumoluoshi Temple, the sheer joy of riding a camel in Dunhuang. It wasn’t just a bleak historical landscape; it was a living, breathing region. My “confirmation bias” going in was that it would be a purely rugged, almost challenging trip, and while it *was* rugged, it was also incredibly welcoming and full of unexpected warmth. The people were friendly, the food was spectacular, and the logistical challenges were easily overcome with a bit of planning and the right apps.

This trip solidified my belief that Hexi Corridor Adventure is not just for hardcore history buffs or intrepid adventurers. It’s for anyone who wants to see a different side of China, a side that’s deeply connected to its ancient past but also very much alive in the present. It’s a place that makes you feel small in the face of history and nature, but also deeply connected to the human story. I mean, thinking about the Silk Road, it wasn’t just about goods, right? It was about ideas, cultures, religions intertwining. That’s a powerful thought to carry home. I’m already dreaming of my next trip back to China, perhaps to explore more of the Qinghai: A Soul-Stirring Journey or even revisit the historical depth of Imperial Echoes: A Xi’an Journey. Or maybe even venture into Ningxia Desert Oasis: A Budget-Friendly Guide for another perspective on desert life. The possibilities are endless, and my foldable shopping bag is always ready for new local treasures.

So, if you’re an American, European, or Australian looking for an adventure that will truly broaden your horizons, I wholeheartedly recommend a Hexi Corridor Adventure. It’s an experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of Chinese history and culture. Don’t hesitate. Just go. You won’t regret it.

P.S. I just heard that the Xixia Mausoleums were officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 11, 2025! How amazing is that? Just another reason to visit the Northwest and embark on your own Hexi Corridor Adventure! China just keeps adding more incredible sites to its list. It’s like they’re trying to make it impossible to choose where to go next. Not that I’m complaining. More history, more beauty, more reasons to travel!