Staying inside the walls and exploring after the day-trippers left was the highlight. Lantern-lit streets every night.

The evening cruise through the lantern-lit canals felt like a scene from a painting. Beautifully organised and never touristy.

The crater lake revealed itself for exactly ten minutes — our guide timed it perfectly. Warm, funny and endlessly patient.

From the river cruise to the bamboo raft and the countryside cycling, every day had a highlight. Our kids still talk about it.

Snow-capped peaks behind timber-framed streets. Our Naxi culture afternoon was a genuine privilege.

History, food, hidden tea houses — we saw a side of the capital we would never have found alone. Faultless planning throughout.

The mountain lodges were booked out months ahead — somehow we had the best spots for both sunrise and sunset.

A long way off the beaten path, and worth every kilometre. The Sunday livestock market was astonishing.

Grandparents, parents and a toddler — and every day offered something for each of us. The private driver made all the difference.