One of the Redster messaged and asked me about my trip to Guilin recently. I had a great time and met so many wonderful people during the trip. And, i have no hesitant at all to share my experience to all travellers. It was a 4 days 3 nights trip - actually more of a 3 full days trip. The following is my reply to him and hopefully it would give others some ideas about Guilin. Most of all, Guilin is highly recommended for those that seek peace of mind, out of the hustle city life, fresh air and even honeymoon. Great for backpackers as well.

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Great that you asked me now when the memory is still vivid in my mind. I just got back on Jan 28th which it is a very cold season. I bought the ticket long long time which cost me about RM 148 for service tax. ( I booked the ticket during Air Asia promotion for "0" air flight. )

In Guilin, i stayed at Lake Side Inn which is great place facing the big lake of Guilin in the city. Its cheap and very nice hospitality. Susan (the owner) and Lulu are nice enough to drive us around and gave us some of their recommendation for sight seeing. I spent about RM 360 for three nights for 3 ppl sharing.

On the first day, we went for sight seeing in the city, have a long walk along the lake, visit the pagoda and temples. On the second day, we went to Yang Shuo. It is a 1 day trip by boat  to Guilin famous Li River, viewing the hills and lakes, a walk to one of the old village, bamboo rafting and others. On the third day i visit the Ming Palace and famous elephant trunk hills. I have limited time and hence didnt get the opportunity to visit outside the city much. Oh yeah, Lulu can assist you with all of these tours booking.

If you are going, remember not to miss my favourite ramen noodle. When you come out from the Inn, turn right heading towards the main road, then turn left go straight, cross over the traffic light (the mall), then turn left and shortly you will saw a small alley (on your right). There is this small shop run by chinese muslim. They sell "Lai min". Great beef noodle and mutton noodle, esp when you are craving for chillies and something hot during the cold weather.

I think, all and all i spent less than 1K per person.

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Ta and enjoy

Link: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g298556-d1192945-Reviews-Lakeside_Inn-Guilin_Guangxi_Zhuang.html