Chongqing vs. Hangzhou: A Tale of Two Cities
The weather in mid-June was a mixed bag, with scorching sun one moment and persistent drizzle the next. This atmospheric dance meant that roadside stalls and street vendors were offering a vibrant array of colorful, cooling desserts.
A Culinary Journey: Chongqing's Unique Flavors
Contrary to what some might expect, the food in Chongqing isn't as intensely spicy as the cuisine back home in Vietnam. Instead, the local flavors boast a distinctive tingling sensation that lingers delightfully on the palate. Wander the streets, and the aroma of these unique spices becomes a constant companion, which after a week, can become a bit much. It's in these moments that one truly appreciates the rich diversity of Vietnamese spices, from the salty depth of fish sauce to the savory notes of soy sauce.
Generally, the everyday meals in Chongqing are tasty, satisfying, and well-seasoned, though perhaps a touch on the milder side. They are also quite affordable. However, be prepared for a generous amount of oil in many dishes; pairing them with a hot cup of tea is a wise choice.
I had the chance to try Chongqing hot pot, and honestly, it was a bit overwhelming due to the oiliness. Despite the presence of chilies, it didn't deliver the expected fiery kick. As mentioned earlier, the sensation is more about that fascinating tingle.
Chongqing's Urban Tapestry
Chongqing is surprisingly green, with abundant trees interspersed with soaring concrete structures that create an almost ancient forest-like atmosphere. The city's development feels rather eclectic, a fascinating blend of modern architecture and timeworn, old-world charm, which paradoxically, becomes one of its most defining characteristics.
Everything is reasonably priced, from the food to taxis and hotels. The ground floor often houses the reception lobby, but in a truly unexpected twist, the 21st floor might be dedicated to reception, dining, and cafes offering panoramic views of the city. What's even more astonishing is that the 22nd floor could be a bustling pedestrian street. It's a concept that is both delightfully puzzling and utterly surprising.
Chongqing is dotted with many old streets, vibrant pedestrian food streets, numerous bridges, and yes, plenty of yellow taxis. While these taxis are a common sight, they can be a bit rickety and not always the cleanest.
A City of Contrasts and Delights
Overall, Chongqing is a large, lively, and bustling metropolis. One dish that I absolutely adored was the 'silken tofu,' which reminded me of cheese – incredibly creamy, rich, and utterly delicious. I still find myself craving it even after returning home.
Using an eSIM allowed seamless access to Vietnamese social media platforms. The only limitation was the data cap, with a daily allowance of 2GB, totaling 56GB for the week.
The flight to Chongqing was a little over 3 hours, which was quite convenient. I flew with a Chinese airline, and the timing worked out perfectly.
My hotel was right in the heart of the city, conveniently close to Hongyadong. Upon arriving at 7:30 AM, I was pleasantly surprised to be allowed an early check-in. They were also very accommodating with a late check-out request, granting an extra hour without any fuss. The hotel itself was exceptionally welcoming. My room, spanning a generous 78 square meters, cost 2.7 million VND per night, which felt like excellent value. The high-floor view offered a spectacular vista of the Yangtze River's confluence, where boats gracefully navigated the waters. As dusk settled, the city lights began to twinkle, and a dazzling light show, the name of which escapes me now, illuminated the night sky for guests to enjoy. It was an experience that filled me with immense joy.
I encourage you to take a look at the photos!
PLinh embarked on this adventure independently, embracing the spirit of self-exploration rather than relying on organized tours.
