Real cost of living: a slow month in Yunnan, China

Draft. All numbers are estimates — verify before you go.

Yunnan is China's southwestern province: mild weather, tea mountains, old towns and food that will ruin other noodles for you. Our homes are spread across six cities — Anning, Yuxi, Jianshui, Mile, Shilin and Pu'er.

Estimated monthly costs

• Stay at our homes: about $900/month, including 3 meals a day
• Snacks, tea and the occasional extra meal: $40–$100
• High-speed trains and buses between cities: $40–$120
• Phone/data: $10–$25
• Entry fees (Stone Forest, hot springs, etc.): $20–$80

Estimated total: about $1,010–$1,225/month.

A local routine

Morning markets for fruit you can't name yet, tea houses in Pu'er, the hot springs in Anning, and evening square dancing — join in, nobody minds.

Practical notes

You'll need mobile payments set up and a plan for internet access. Visa rules for China change often. Verify before you book.

Honest downsides

Language can be a real barrier outside big cities. Set up payment apps before you arrive.