Recently, at the invitation of GDToday, a diverse group of international vloggers and content creators embarked on an exploratory journey through Maoming's Xinyi City.
Nestled within the picturesque embrace of western Guangdong, Maoming's Xinyi City is extending a warm invitation to global travelers. This captivating destination overflows with authentic delights, where the tangy-sweet Sanhua plums tantalize, the rolling bamboo seas whisper serenity, and the tranquil Huanghua River unfolds like a living tapestry of natural beauty.
Kicking off on May 30, Xinyi is gearing up for a month-long celebration brimming with excitement. A diverse range of activities awaits, including invigorating hikes through scenic trails, relaxing river cruises to soak in the waterside charm, and exhilarating biking adventures across the picturesque countryside.
Capital of Sanhua Plum
Situated deep within the heartlands of the Yunkai Mountain Range, Qianpai Town in Xinyi boasts an elevation of over 500 meters. The marked contrast between daytime and nighttime temperatures, along with the mist-shrouded peaks, creates an idyllic, natural "conservatory" that nurtures the growth of plum trees.
Come May each year, in the mountainous expanses of Qianpai Town, the early-maturing Sanhua plums begin to gracefully adorn the branches. During this period, the plums display a charming interplay of green and a touch of red.
"Is there anything more beautiful than picking fruit straight from the trees and eating it right away? I think that's probably just an experience that I haven't really had since childhood," Alexandra Louise Ogden, a Canadian vlogger, couldn't help but exclaim in wonder after experiencing the joy of hand-picking plums herself.
She was particularly taken aback by the local culinary habit of pairing plums with chili powder or salt, saying, "Very juicy! I don't want to eat plums any other way now. "
A poetic tapestry woven by nature
Covering an area of over 2,000 hectares, Ma'an Bamboo Sea in Xinyi's Pingtang Town is the largest moso bamboo forest in western Guangdong. With a forest coverage rate exceeding 85%, it boasts a unique bamboo sea landscape.
Surrounded by rolling mountains and undulating peaks, it creates a picturesque sight that has become a top choice for numerous tourists seeking to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature.
Natia Guguchia, a Georgian vlogger, stood amidst the scenic spot and declared with heartfelt enthusiasm, "I think this place is really great for people who want to rest from the city and come here. The environment is refreshing, cool, and there are many beautiful spots, such as hotels."
She added that this place had a special charm that resonated with the memories of her homeland.
Ogden expressed her eagerness to explore the region's cycling trails, envisioning a scenic ride through the mountains."One of the things I'm most excited about is the mountain bike race. It seems like it would be beautiful to ride a bike along these mountains. You can truly take in all the beautiful nature this area has to offer."
Taking advantage of natural resources to boost local economic growth
A leisurely boat ride along the Huanghua River transported the influencers to a realm of unparalleled natural beauty. "When we went on the cruise along the river, it felt almost like I was in the Amazon or somewhere equally incredible," said Ogden.
Hutiao Gorge on the Huanghua River is renowned for its steep canyons and raging waters. Along the journey, the river surface narrows, and the current surges fiercely, with towering cliffs standing upright on both banks, resembling a vivid scroll painting. There are also hotels and guesthouses built on both sides, offering accommodations for tourists to rest and enjoy their visit.
Priyasha Sharma, an Indian vlogger, was particularly struck by the local community's efforts to harness natural resources for sustainable economic development. "It’s really great that local people want to show the world how a small place with their natural resources and products can also create so much employment."
"As a foreigner or an expat living in China, I think others should come here and support places like this."
Reporter | Chen Jinxia
Cameraman | Qin Shaolong
Video editor | Ou Nanying
Poster | Cai Junru
Photo | Li Yangshi
Editor | Hu Nan, James, Shen He
