As we made our way through Yichang, first by bus and then by taxi, it quickly became apparent that this is the grimmest, greyist, most depressing city I've ever seen. Glad we're not spending any real time here and using it simply to join our luxury cruise of the Yangtze. Our ship, Victoria Anna, is magnificent, and is a chance for us to really relax, if we weren't already. Our room with balcony is lovely and we are now enjoying the simple pleasures of being clea...

It's been a day to relax and plan our next couple of weeks. Went to the Suzhou Museum and the ancient royal residence attached. Very interesting. Had some good street food and plenty of tea. Sat in the sun on on lovely cafe roof terrace and enjoyed our warmest and sunniest day so far. Just enjoying a beer right now before we have an early night - tomorrow will be a long day: train to Shanghai, plane to Yichang and journey to the port where we board our cruis...

"Hey, Suzhou...get off here!", the bus driver shouted and we quickly got off the bus, only to realize with sheer panic that we were dumped at the outskirts of town. Luckily, we managed to navigate our way and check into this charming historical youth hostel in the most ancient block in Suzhou next to the canal. The old street looks very traditional with well preserved character, however, I find it's an anachronism strangely wrapped up by the buzzing metropolis. I...

So far it's a great day. Wondered along the canals this morning. You know, there is some resemblance to Venice. Chanced upon some cracking street food - gorgeous pancakes with spring onion, egg, veggies, and spicy sauce...flippin' good! After breakfast part 2 we avoided the ticket touts and spent a delightfully relaxing few hours in The Humble Administrator's Garden. Please check out the pictures. I adore this sort of garden. Just met up with Michael and Fi, 2...

We have arrived finally in Suzhou a city built around a network of canals. This is clearly not Venice, but around the old part of town, where we're staying, it's very pretty and full of charm. We've followed The Lonely Planet's recommendation regarding hostels and it has come up trumps... a lovely old hostel, furnished with nice old dark wood throughout, and set in a lovely canal-side location. The journey here was a bit bizarre I have to say. The bus was a slee...