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Good results can be obtained however by using a slow shutter speed, resting the camera on a ledge and keeping it steady.

I went on a sunny day in January so there may be more natural light shining through the windows when the sun is higher in the sky.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/11328 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10204 tricycle taxi. There are plenty by the railway station and they
comfortably seat two.

Many would class the ride as white knuckle but most will admire the way veteran drivers skillfully maneuver their vehicles through the city traffic.

If you have a little more time a boat is better giving a view of the older buildings which contrast the new development in both Shaoxing and the region as a whole.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10204 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10203 chance of finding someone to give you directions although none of the taxi drivers speak English so a good phrase book with Chinese characters is essential.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10203 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10202 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/10202 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/9976
The lakeside has a distinctly European atmosphere reminiscent of the south of France with many of the younger local people dressing up in locally produced fashions to promenade by the water.

There are Italian and French restaurants with many of the old colonial-style houses being converted into cafes. Some are expensive by Chinese standards but worth the price if you feel like a change from Chinese food.

There are usually musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments on the shore of the lake.

Boat trips and bicycle hire are also possible. On good days it is worth hanging around for the sunset.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/9976 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/9975
It offers an escape from the crowds of the Yangtze Delta Region and a chance to relax and enjoy a short boat trip on this man-made lake.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/9975 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/8844
There were plenty of people selling binoculars and fake Rolex watches but I only saw one person selling earplugs so bring your own if you can.

Always carry a card with the name and address of your hotel in Chinese just in case you get lost and want to jump into a taxi. Not many speak English but they will understand if you point to the card.

You can save money by sitting on the grass on one of the hairpin bends. There is plenty of action there but you may need a new lens for your camera as the action is a bit further away – but this can be paid for by the money you save on the ticket.

Take an umbrella. If Westerners get a cold here it lasts for three weeks when the locals shake it off in a couple of days.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/8844 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/8196
Four Streets of hotels, bars, restaurants and budget travel agents.

An excellent, clean, air-conditioned room (with shower) cost me CNY 60 (GBP 4) per night. Beer is CNY 6 a pint! Internet use is free all over town in bars and hotels.

You can get an English breakfast and yes a sandwich. I was caught staring at one for too long because I have been away for a long time. I just about got away with it as the shopkeeper spoke good English.

You can also revamp your traveller's wardrobe as the shops offer clothes in Western sizes and most people speak good English here.

Come here by tourist boat (CNY 400) or bus (CNY 20.) Stay here and not Guilin as it is much cheaper (see above.)]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/8196