Dali travel has pitfalls. This guide lists 20 survival tips covering lodging, shopping, food, and more — so your Dali trip leaves no regrets.
20 tips: ① Refuse street hustlers offering "discount tours"; ② Take taxis from official queues at airports/stations; ③ For Rushan, skip tourist-zone restaurants, go to residential areas; ④ Book "free cancellation" hotel rooms; ⑤ Buy tickets through official channels; ⑥ 洱海: arrive before 8am to beat crowds; ⑦ 苍山: after 4pm has the best light; ⑧ 崇圣寺三塔: may be closed Mondays; ⑨ Carry small change for buses; ⑩ Didi surge-prices at peak hours; ⑪ 古城 is touristy and pricey; ⑫ 下关 has more local flavor; ⑬ Bargaining starts at 50% off; ⑭ Book a month ahead during 三月街; ⑮ Bring rain gear in rainy season; ⑯ Don't skimp on sunscreen; ⑰ Keep a slow pace with elderly/kids; ⑱ Carry stomach medicine; ⑲ Save emergency numbers in your phone; ⑳ Keep receipts in case of disputes.
Extra reminders: ① Dali weather is changeable — check the forecast daily; ② Scenic spots have few restrooms — go before you arrive; ③ Specify spice level for Rushan in advance; ④ Some sights require reservations; ⑤ 白族文化 performances have fixed showtimes — check ahead. For disputes, call 12315 (consumer complaint hotline). Enjoy your Dali trip!