Dali

Locals going to market.
Preparing the tie dye "knots."

Beautiful San Ta. Leaning pagoda on the left.

Getting through towns slowly, but surely! I can't believe we've been "back to school" for a month now. I'm ready for another vacation, but still haven't finished posting the last one. Dali was a blast. The historic city is set against a stunning backdrop, Erhai Lake with the imposing Cangshan mountain range behind it. The old section of Dali was wonderful to explore. We enjoyed an evening bargaining in the old town and had so much fun speaking foreign languages (who knows what), dancing and laughing with an old shop owner than we bought many of his wares....probably the plan, but he was fantastic.....as was Terry who can speak some strange Russian and Chinese dialect and a language of his own making......nonsense spoken louder and slower! We visited a tie dye factory where we were shown the intricate process. Takes some serious time. When were were leaving we saw the field behind where they dry the products which were laying all over the ground and bushes. We had a boat ride on a lake that is usually calm. The wind was up and our tour guide was NERVOUS and SICK. The San Ta (Three Pagodas) symbolize Dali. The tallest is 230 ft. and dates back to around AD 800. The pagodas have survived many earthquakes that have destroyed the surrounding villages. The pagoda on the left is leaning reminding you of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Dali was incredibly charming. (photos)