Jiuzhaigou (九寨沟), Sichuan, China (12/24/2011-12/26/2011)

A short flight north from Sichuan, in the ancient Tibetan province of Kham lies a series of Tibetan villages along mountains that are known for their all-season beauty. I was lucky enough to have gone to one of China's most popular domestic tourist destinations off-season (so much so that entire hotels were closed); at the same time, I missed the more colourful landscapes seen during autumn colour changes and spring blooms.  Jiuzhaigou is most famous for its multi-coloured lakes (due to high mineral content of the water, notably copper).  As it was dry season, there were numerous trails that were closed off to tourists due to the propensity of local tourists to chain-smoke. The prospect of walking along the road did not sit well with some (including myself) and luckily the trails were not monitored - otherwise this would have been a very boring experience walking along the road between lakes.

One of the more unique experiences offered in Jiuzhaigou was the opportunity to dine, drink and dance with a local Tibetan family. While very touristy (and cliches a plenty), it was still quite fun.