Visitors to the idyllic region of Xishuangbanna in China should take the opportunity to explore the fascinating Dai Village. The Dai people are an ethnic minority who live in this region of China. By visiting this unique village where the genuine traditions and customs of this people have been preserved, the visitor will gain an enthralling insight into the distinctive lifestyle of the Dai ethnicity.
The village is encircled on three fronts by bodies of water, and there are many verdant fields in the area. Beautiful subtropical vegetation is everywhere, with a profusion of sweet-smelling flowers. The village of the Dai is a simple and unpretentious place, consisting in the main of modest wooden huts. Many of the huts feature two floors, which are supported by sturdy bamboo poles. Leaves are used to provide shelter from the elements, covering the walls and ceilings. The first floor is often used to park vehicles and rear poultry, while the upper floor houses the living quarters of the family with bedrooms, a living room and kitchen. It is thought that this mode of construction has been employed to prevent snakes from entering the homes. Interestingly, the local authorities subsidize homes built in this traditional manner so as to encourage the preservation of the authentic construction methods.
The main attractions at the village include a craft house, white pagoda, restaurants featuring a selection of local delicacies, a special venue for conducting festive events as well as a traditional Burmese temple. The settlement, although relatively small in size is renowned for its welcoming hospitality and delicious food. There are a number of restaurants here that are well known for their ethnic Dai specialties.
Traditional Dai festivities may also be witnessed here, with highlights such as weddings, the water-splashing festivity and the elephant drum dance. With so much to see and do, there is no doubt that any visitor would be captivated by the attractions of this unique locality and its tranquil rustic ambience. Travellers interested in visiting this attractive site may base themselves at a fine hotel in Yunnan such as the Anantara Xishuangbanna, China. This hotel Yunnan offers provides fine accommodations and gracious hospitality for an unforgettable experience in the city.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+