Escape To Yunnan

A long-time lover of a tropical holiday in Bali, Sarah Richard discovers an unexpected new favourite getaway in a different direction altogether: Yunnan Province in China.

- Sarah Richard

When it comes to travel, I generally know if I’m going to like a place or not almost instantly upon landing. The atmosphere the smells, the people, the surroundings those first few experiences in a new place are the most exciting. I knew I was going to like Yunnan from the start; but I never realised quite how much I would fall for it. This is a place unlike any other – much of it is far less explored and spoken about than touristy beach destinations, a truly magical.

Lijiang

It helped that I was staying in some seriously sublime accommodation, in the form of the Banyan Tree Lijiang Resort, a 40-minute drive from the city's international airport. My room at the resort, one of the Garden Suites, felt more like a cosy apartment. Welcome features included the timeless oriental décor a huge bed, and my own private garden looking out onto the famous Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. For those wanting an additional touch of luxury, there’s a range of Pool Villas and Jet Pool Villas.

Wherever you lay your head, it’s clear that Banyan Tree takes each of its five stars very seriously. From the gowns hang fresh and ready for you every morning to the seasonal fruit and complimentary snacks, you can expect to find every extra.

For me, though, the most specular thing about the property is its surroundings. My first night was spent gazing at the breath taking mountain views – to the point that I was in danger of spending more time on my balcony than in my bed; that was until I realised that the bed was possibly the comfiest I would ever sleep on.