Dali, Yunnan, China

Crouched close to the western shore of Lake Erhai, this boutique guest house ranks among our favourite places to stay in China. It was founded by American expats, Brian and Jeanee Linden, who spent 4 years renovating a charismatic old manor just outside Dali. Beautiful antiques, textiles and local crafts enliven the interiors, and Bai musicians and dancers from the village perform recitals in the central courtyard. During the day you can go for horse-cart rides through the surrounding rice fields, watch cormorant fishing by the lake, or just relax over a game of mahjong back at the lodge. Classes in local Bai cuisine, music, calligraphy and painting are also on offer. Far more than just a beautiful place to stay, the Linden Centre is an inspirational way to learn more about this unique part of the world.