This summer, I participated in a study trip to China. The trip was led by local guide Nick (English name) and organized by the Chinese College Netherlands. I spent ten days in Yunnan Province with other students.

Yunnan is a region that unfolds like a kaleidoscope of cultures, where countless Chinese minority groups each harmoniously blend their own traditions, languages, and ways of life. This wealth of diversity forms the beating heart of the province and reflects the multifaceted nature of China itself. For example, you can savor centuries-old tea rituals, melodies of indigenous musical instruments resonate through narrow streets, and villages bear witness to a unique blend of written cultures and beliefs—where Christian churches and mosques coexist peacefully. History lives on in the attempts of local rulers to approach the majesty of the Forbidden City, while each community celebrates its own identity. This diverse collection makes Yunnan a cultural mosaic, where a new story awaits discovery around every corner.
The trip took us to unique places that you wouldn't normally find as an outsider, a valuable experience for anyone interested in the various Chinese cultures.
What made this trip extra special was our guide, Nick, who is himself a native of the region and belongs to one of the minority groups. Thanks to his personal stories and insider knowledge, we gained access to hidden gems and authentic experiences that remain hidden from most travelers.
I look back on this extraordinary journey with amazement, where the company and the vibrant culture were true highlights. The colorful traditional costumes, the refined regional dishes, and the picturesque architecture immersed me in a world that felt like a living work of art—as if I were walking through a magnificent postcard.

author: Vincent Doest