Potato Chip Rock on Mt. Woodson Trail, Poway, San Diego County, California

     I have always seen many pictures of people standing on the edge of a rock that looks like it will break at any moment on Instagram. People called this rock “Potato Chip Rock”. The hike to potato chip rock is located in the city of Poway right near Lake Poway. The trailhead starts from Lake Poway Recreation Area, just right near the restrooms. Potato chip rock is at the end of the Mount Woodson Trail, about 4 miles uphill. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to the summit and see potato chip rock. As you can see in the pictures, the rock is a large thin slab that hangs over the main boulder. It looks like it will break at any moment, but it can hold a lot of weight. There are also a lot of people jumping on the rock for their memorable photos. If you are a crazy hiking lover, you should hit this trail. (TIPS: bring plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, dress appropriately, and leave early in the morning!)

The fog on Lake Poway

People jumping on potato chip rock

Doing a handstand

ALL PICTURES ARE FROM GOOGLE

Venice

An aerial view of Venice

   I have heard a lot about Venice, but still not have a chance to visit this city. Venice, a city of beauty, charm, and romance, is located in northeastern Italy sited on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. This city is renowned for its architecture and art works. Venice is a magical place as it is one of the few cities in the world where the sound of cars are never heard. Imagining that sitting in a small boat on the river and enjoying the sight of the characteristic buildings on both sides. Don't you feel relaxed or peaceful? Moreover, I want to experience the Carnival of Venice, an annual festival held in Venice. Everyone dresses in elaborate costumes and wears various, colorful marks. They dance and make reunions in San Marco Square, and the city becomes even more energetic and enchanting. I hope I can visit this city soon!

A lady wearing elaborate costume and distinctive mask.

Venice at night
I really love this picture!

Old Town of Lijiang

     Old Town of Lijiang (also called Dayan Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Lijiang City, Yunnan, China, with its beautiful culture of Naxi people, unique old wooden houses along the canals, and picturesque gardens. This old town has two faces. In daytime, especially in the early morning, it is plain, neat and quietly elegant. Along the street is full of interesting handicraft shops and old styled tea houses. After sunset, this Old Town becomes gorgeous, pretty and lively as it is brightly lit with red lanterns and spotlights. Along the street is full of clubs and bars, and music, either from pub singers or music player, either traditional or modern, either soft or loud. Old Town of Lijiang is a place for you to stay away the stressful life in the modern city and relax your mood.

Early morning in Old Town

Old Town with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as background

Wisps of smoke rising continuously from a house in Old Town

Old Town at late night

Old Town at night