Nestled in the southwestern tip of Yunnan, Jinghong offers a sunny subtropical climate and laid-back lifestyle that encourages exploration. Admire rare flowers and plants in the vibrant Xishuangbanna Tropical Flowers Garden, spot wild elephants at dawn or dusk in the Xishuangbanna Wild Elephant Valley Tropical Rain Forest Scenic Area, and try local eats and pick up souvenirs at the Gaozhuang Night Market. The former imperial garden of the Dai kingdom, Manting Park features hundreds of gorgeous orchids, the ornate Zongfo Si Buddhist temple, and boat rides on Release Lake. Experience more Dai culture by visiting the Xishuangbanna Dai Nationality Garden, featuring five traditional villages and colorful daily performances, and if the timing’s right, catching the three-day Water Splashing Festival in April (heads-up: you will get wet).