My Dalian Mountain and Sea Staycation: Warm Hospitality in a Secluded Paradise.

Embark on a Journey: Unexpected Surprises in Spring City In early April, spring has arrived in Dali. Everything is coming back to life, and the air is filled with the fragrance of flowers and plants. I heard that spring has come earlier than usual this year, so with a heart yearning for nature, I embarked on a journey to Dali. My destination was "Mountain and Sea Staycation," a highly-rated guesthouse nestled at the foot of Cangshan Mountain and by the Erhai Lake. I heard that not only is the environment serene, but the service is also meticulous and the locals are very hospitable. First Impression: Harmony Between Nature and Humanity The moment I arrived at Mountain and Sea Staycation, I was deeply moved by the sight before me. White-walled and blue-tiled houses were scattered among the lush greenery, with the majestic Cangshan Mountain in the distance and the sparkling Erhai Lake nearby. There was no excessive artificial decoration, and everything seemed so pristine and natural. Walking through a bamboo forest path, I heard the symphony of birdsong and the gentle breeze. I couldn't help but slow down my pace and breathe in the fresh air that I had missed for so long. A sense of joy welled up in my heart. Warm Welcome: Feeling at Home The check-in process was very smooth. The receptionist, with a bright smile, introduced the guesthouse's facilities and services in fluent Mandarin. She also kindly asked if I needed to pre-book any local experiences. Her friendly attitude instantly shortened the distance between us, making me feel as warm as if I were at home. Then, a staff member dressed in ethnic attire led me to my room. Along the way, he introduced the flowers, plants, and trees along the path, as well as their significance in local culture. His attentiveness and enthusiasm made me feel very comfortable. Relaxing Afternoon: Leisure Time in a Secluded Paradise After putting down my luggage, I couldn't wait to explore the surroundings. The courtyard of Mountain and Sea Staycation was meticulously designed, with every detail reflecting the owner's ingenuity. I found a seat by the window, ordered a pot of local Pu'er tea, and quietly enjoyed the afternoon sunshine. Not far away, several local elders were playing chess under the shade of a tree, occasionally bursting into laughter. Their leisurely and contented appearance made me smile too. Dinner Surprise: A Feast of Authentic Flavors At dinner time, I was invited to a welcome banquet hosted by the guesthouse for its guests. The table was filled with various Dali specialties, from spicy fish to cold wood ear salad, each dish was colorful, fragrant, and mouthwatering. What touched me even more was that the chef himself came to the table and explained the origin and cooking techniques of each dish. This spirit of respect and sharing made the dinner more than just a dining experience; it felt like a gathering with like-minded friends. Conversation with Locals: Deep Cultural Exchange In the following days, I also participated in a cultural exchange activity organized by the guesthouse, which gave me the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations with local residents. Whether it was the traditional crafts demonstrated by artisans or the ancient legends told by elders, everything deepened my understanding and appreciation of Dali. I discovered that everyone here is dedicated to preserving the stories and spirit of this land in their own way. Their simple and sincere attitude deeply touched me. Departure: Reluctant Farewell In the blink of an eye, my Dali journey was coming to an end. Standing at the entrance of Mountain and Sea Staycation, I looked back at the memories I had made along the way, and a thousand emotions welled up in my heart. The mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas here gave me a visual feast, while the kindness and warmth from the people nourished my spirit. Before leaving, I bought some local handicrafts as souvenirs, hoping to bring this beauty back to my hometown and share it with more people.