Your Guide To
Kunming
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The largest city and capital of China's Yunnan, Kunming represents the gateway into Southeast Asia from China and a significant point along the Belt and Road Project. In terms of visitor activities, it acts as a gateway or stepping stone into a unique side of China. Mountainous and subtropical, there are some 56 ethnic minorities present in the province!
The airport is relatively new and was built for a city size which won't exist for another decade or more. Which can mean convenience alongside confusion. Visitors may have an easier time launching themselves from a chain of Irish pubs across the city which boast good numbers of expatriates to share tips and tricks. Consider departing for Lijiang or Dali with some haste. World War II enthusiasts might sniff out pieces of history from the famed Kunming Flying Tigers, an American Air Force unit famed for their logistics into conflict zones over the mountain ranges of the region.
Planning your trip
In many ways Kunming is only the hopping off point for wider exploration of Yunnan Province. Try some local Dai food or visit a museum which pays tribute to local history and any WWII relics of the Kunming Flying Tigers, an American Air Squadron stationed just outside the city and which played a pivotal role in the security of then-Burma and the wider region in flying over "The Hump", in reality, the Himalayan Mountains!
When you should go
In our estimation, the city is at its most comfortable temperature and most welcoming weather during the months of March, April, and May. Although it is known as "The City of Eternal Spring" or even just "The Spring City".
Surprising elevations make for a more tempered climate considering the latitude here. The province is typically subtropical, while you might experience cool but not cold winters and warm but not hot summers. Summers are wet, however.
What else you might need
As an alternate to any Chinese tourist visa, a 72-hour transit visa does exist for those passing through Kunming. Some strict rules apply and you should check in with your advisor or another trusted resource when it comes to planning any short visit. China's transit visas tend toward air passengers who hold onward tickets. The practical outcome of which might mean choosing among unfamiliar airlines for a less comfortable onward connection.
Things to do nearby
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Content is intended for information and planning purposes only. While we try our best to deliver accurate and current information, some items may not be as described. Please contact your Odyssean Travel advisor for further details. Recommendations are made by independent travelers and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Odyssean Travel and we shall not be liable for any content and its subsequent accuracy or validity.