The travel guide for ethnic minorities in Xinjiang mainly focuses on respecting local customs, choosing the right travel time, visiting unique scenic spots, and paying attention to diet and sun protection.?
Firstly, Xinjiang is a region inhabited by multiple ethnic groups, with a large proportion of ethnic minorities. During the tour, tourists should respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs. For example, ethnic groups that believe in Islam do not eat pork or drink alcohol, so tourists should avoid ordering dishes such as pork belly or pork pilaf at local ethnic restaurants?
. Meanwhile, tourists should abide by local etiquette norms, such as breaking the nang (a type of bread) into small pieces to share with everyone, as it is considered unrefined to pick up the whole piece and eat it?
Secondly, choosing the right travel time is also important. Xinjiang is vast, and the best travel times differ in different regions. Overall, May to October is the golden period for visiting Xinjiang. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush, and wildflowers bloom in competition, making it an excellent time to appreciate natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise across Xinjiang, and fruits and vegetables ripen, making it a good time to taste local delicacies and visit popular northern Xinjiang scenic spots such as Kanas and Hemu; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with Kanas’ trees turning golden, and the Populus euphratica forests also displaying a mesmerizing golden hue, making it a paradise for photographers?
In terms of tourist attractions, the must-visit spots in Xinjiang include Kanas Scenic Area and Sayram Lake. Kanas Scenic Area, located in the Altay Mountains, is known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’. It boasts mountains, lakes, and forests, and is picturesque throughout the seasons, especially the autumn scenery of the Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay)?
. Sayram Lake is the largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, with breathtaking lake and mountain scenery.?
Furthermore, tourists should also pay attention to diet and sun protection. Xinjiang’s cuisine is mostly based on beef and mutton, and the taste is generally on the heavier side. While tasting local delicacies, tourists should pay attention to eating meat in moderation, drinking more water, and avoiding digestive issues such as gastrointestinal discomfort?
. Additionally, Xinjiang has strong ultraviolet rays, so tourists should prepare for sun protection in advance, such as applying sunscreen, wearing hats and sleeve covers, etc.?
Lastly, tourists should abide by local laws, regulations, and tourism rules during their trips, cooperate with tourism inspection stations, and ensure a pleasant and safe journey. Meanwhile, it is advisable for tourists to make adequate preparations and plans before departure, including itinerary arrangements, accommodation reservations, and transportation options, to ensure a smooth trip?