West Lake: My May Day Debrief
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Sure, let me share my "adventure" at the West Lake which I believe everyone has something to say about.
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Several years ago, I visited the West Lake for the first time and mainly explored the Broken Bridge and White Dyke.
- (For those abroad: The Broken Bridge and White Dyke are quite popular attractions by the West Lake!)
- I am someone whose nose is sensitive to smells, and back then, I really noticed a strong smell of lavatory emanating from a particular stretch of road, though the view was undoubtedly spectacular despite this.
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This year, during the Labor Day holiday season (which is an important public holiday in China, so prepare yourself for crowds!), I arrived in Hangzhou again. As it just served as a stopover for me, I decided to behold the West Lake from another perspective.
- So, I hiked up to Toad Peak. This peak provides a splendid overlook of the entire West Lake from above.
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However, the climax of my "ordeal" happened on my descent from Toad Peak towards Beishan Street (probably referred to as "Bei Street", a renowned street bordering the West Lake)!
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Let me tell you, I was almost driven to extreme frustration by those damnable French Plane Trees that lined the streets!
- These trees drop a great number of fluffy seeds, which resembled feathers swirling down like heavy snowfall, never-endingly.
- People on the streets were sneezing continuously, and little children constantly rubbed their eyes.
- I myself was a major victim! Both of my eyes started watering due to these seeds, making it hard for me to see the path, never letting go of paper tissues all the way.
️ Travel Alert & Important Tips:
- Beware of “plane tree snow”!
- If you plan a trip to around Hangzhou during spring, particularly between April and May, aim to avoid walking beside the French Plane Trees. They release a huge amount of fluff or seeds which can irritate your respiratory system and eyes.
- How do you deal with this issue?
- Wear a mask to cover your mouth and nose to reduce inhalation.
- Use glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Try to avoid these tree-lined paths if you have allergies, or if your eyes or nose are sensitive, and make sure to take appropriate protective measures.
#Hangzhou Tour During Labor Day
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Yes, absolutely.
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We just got here today, and you've already used up a whole pack of tissues this morning!