Dec 18: Escaped the cold in Chongqing. Remember to bring warm clothes if it's cold.

I really like Chongqing. Just make sure to do your research before you go to avoid the tourist traps. Here is a summary of my experience over the past few days. I hope it helps! - ☁️ About the weather in Chongqing The cold in the south is different from the cold in the north 😱. Chongqing is cold and damp, so make sure to wear warm clothes and windproof clothing. A thick down jacket is also necessary. Bring an umbrella with you as it rains a lot! - 1️⃣ There are many security guards in uniform near Jiefangbei. They will approach you and recommend hotpot restaurants. Don't go with them. They are touts who sell meals. 2️⃣ The lights at Hongya Cave are turned on at 18:00 in winter. If you want to take photos of the lights being turned on, go 15 minutes early. I recommend going to Qiansimen Bridge or Jiangtan Park at the Grand Theater. There are fewer people and it's a great place to take photos. 3️⃣ Don't accept roses from strangers on the street. They will ask you to pay for them. They usually target couples. 4️⃣ When eating hotpot in Chongqing, choose a restaurant in a residential building or alley. The food is authentic and good value for money. I recommend Tian Bangbang Hotpot (Jiefangbei Branch), Chen Chen Hotpot (Shangxin Street Branch), and Chen Popo Hotpot (Wuyi Alley Branch). 5️⃣ There is no need to take the Yangtze River Cableway. You have to queue for a long time and the ride only lasts 5 minutes. It's a tourist trap! (Just my opinion) But if you want to experience the unique transportation, you can try it. 6️⃣ The red fruit sold on the street is not a local specialty. Chongqing people call it "Ha'er Fruit". It's sweet and expensive, and dyed with food coloring. 7️⃣ Chongqing is not just about hotpot. There are also delicious Jianghu dishes. Nie Facai Laifeng Fish is a good choice. The signature dish is Laifeng Fish. The fish is tender and delicious. It was even recommended by CCTV! 8️⃣ Remember to bring an umbrella. It rains a lot in Chongqing in winter. There are many people selling transparent umbrellas for CNY 10 on the street.