When a specific location proves to be the inspiration behind certain legends or works of art, it suddenly becomes all the more fascinating.
Of course, it helps if the product of this inspiration was, well, something inspiring itself; like Shangri-la, for example.
This mythical paradise was thought to have originated from an untouched section of China where the Himalayas thrust up towards the heavens and the natural beauty is said to be stunning and breathtaking. I have not had the good fortune to visit China’s Yunnan province–the true inspiration for Shangri-la–but a rather enthralling article in the Telegraph now has me salivating at the prospect.
Sadly, what was once a long arduous trek to reach, is serviced these days by a local airport. As a result, the capital of Dayan now sees three million tourists a year. The good news, however, is that few venture into the wilds beyond as journalist Katherine Tanko discovers while gallivanting about the region. In the process, she also learns if the nature itself isn’t paradise, the prices are. Tanko paid just $12 a night for room and board. Now that, folks, is my definition of Shangri-la.