Slava is a travel influencer from the US. His YouTube account, CoolVision, has 952,000 followers. Two months ago, Slava posted his travel vlog on Hainan, showering it with praise like "China's tropical paradise," "where nature meets next-level luxury," and "China's ultimate island escape."

Misha, a vlogger from Mexico with 354,000 followers, commented on Slava's video: "I think I’ve just found the place that I'll visit on my first trip to China."

Let's have an in-depth look at the "unbelievable" places that Slava visited in Hainan and see how their popularity has exploded among netizens outside China.

1. Happening Haikou: Then, Now, and the Future

Qilou Historical Quarter

Strolling through Haikou's Qilou Historical Quarter, Slava was captivated by the Southeast Asian-style Qilou (buildings with upper floors overhanging the pavement below to create covered sidewalks) that lined the streets. These Qilou buildings, initially constructed in the 19th century by overseas Chinese who had returned home to Hainan, ingeniously blend the essence of Eastern and Western architecture, featuring both the delicate European-style carvings and practical designs adapted to the tropical climate. What surprised Slava was that in addition to bustling commerce, the quarter boasts a vibrant community that exemplifies the leisurely pace of life in Hainan.

Cloudscape Library

Nestled on the coast of Haikou Bay within Century Park is the Cloudscape Library. Resembling a celestial shell that has fallen to earth, the library has been a spiritual haven for mere mortals and particularly art enthusiasts since its opening in 2021. The futuristic architecture perfectly blends reading spaces with the coastline outside, offering a secluded retreat for bookworms and a trendy must-visit location for hip youngsters.

Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark

At the Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark, Slava embarked on a geological adventure through time and space. Walking in the crater of an extinct volcano surrounded by tropical plants, he got a sense of the majestic power of the surging magma thousands of years ago. From the top of the basalt crater, one can take in a view of the whole city while pondering the mystery of the formation of Hainan Island.

2. Sensational Sanya: Prayer, Promenades, and Paradise

Nanshan Temple

Nanshan Temple, built in 1988, is the southernmost Buddhist temple in China. Slava found the temple and its grounds "an incredible spiritual and natural retreat," which perfectly blends Chinese Buddhist culture with the serene beauty of nature. The temple's most striking feature is the Nanshan Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), a towering 108-meter-tall statue that stands like a spiritual lighthouse overlooking the waves.

Yalong Bay

Yalong Bay, far removed from the urban center of Sanya, boasts a seven-kilometer-long coastline with stunningly clear seawater and soft white sand. Such is its beauty that it is often referred to as "China's best beach." A playground for those with money to spare, the bay features luxury hotels and top-of-the-line golf courses.

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Tourist Area

Boarding a shuttle bus at the base of the mountains on which this sprawling park lies, you wind along roads that open into an exotic nature reserve. Here, you can experience the rainforest up close on suspension bridges, zip lines, and a 400-meter-long jungle glass walkway.

3. Winding Wanning: Bay-by, Bay-by, Bay-by, ohh!

Shimei Bay

Stretching six kilometers along crystalline waters, Shimei Bay is one of the best places to surf in Hainan. Here, Slava tried surfing for the second time in his life. Compared to the chaos of his first attempt, he did much better this time, being able to stand stably on his board and enjoy the rush of the waves.

Riyue Bay

Riyue Bay, boasting some of the best waves in the world, is where serious global surfing competition meets leisurely relaxation. As night falls, the charm of Riyue Bay remains undiminished. The beachside bar street, filled with lively and exotic vibes, quietly comes to life, allowing you to experience Hainan's unique romance and chill atmosphere.

4. Dazzling Dongfang: The Wonderful Land of "Ez"

E'niang Cave Scenic Area

E'niang Cave is renowned as the "No.1 Immortals Cave in Hainan." The diverse stalactites and the murmuring streams inside the cave left Slava in awe of nature's craftsmanship, while the pristine, safe environment of the scenic area made exploration more comfortable and enjoyable.

E'xian Ridge Nature Reserve

Covering a vast area of 160 square kilometers, E'xian Ridge Nature Reserve is like a green gem embedded in the landscape of western Hainan. Known as the "Little Guilin of Dongfang," its captivating karst landform boasts a wild charm that makes you want to stay.

Hainan's Four Gastronomical Greats

In Hainan, the coconut breeze and sea charm, along with the mountain and sea wonders, are intoxicating, but what lingers in the memory the most is the cuisine. Chief among them are the island's four signature "gastronomical greats" that carry the flavors of Hainan's mountains and sea.

Dongshan Goat

Nurtured by the craggy crevices of Dongshan Ridge, these goats produce tender, fragrant meat without even a hint of gaminess. The meat is added to various dishes. Stewed goat soup is nourishing and robust, while braised goat is soft and melts in the mouth.

Wenchang Chicken

Wenchang Chicken is undoubtedly Hainan's culinary calling card. Raised to perfection, these chickens yield tender, juicy, and flavorful meat with a bit of bounce. The white cut poaching method locks in the original taste of the meat, which is served with a special dipping sauce. Its golden skin and white flesh are rich in flavor and delight from the first bite.

Hele Crab

Hele crab, hailing from the coastal town of Hele in Wanning, is brimming with crab butter and roe. Typically steamed with soy sauce and vinegar, the crab meat is sweet and savory with a rich aroma, and the golden crab roe is utterly irresistible.

Jiaji Duck

A specialty of Jiaji Town, Qionghai, this fleshy duck has thin skin, giving it a rich taste without all the grease. Prepared using a unique cooking method, the cooked meat is firm yet tender and served with a sweet and sour sauce or drizzled with a secret marinade, offering a full-bodied flavor.

Be it its history and culture, culinary delights, scenic beauty, modern architecture, or technological development, Hainan brings endless surprises.

Concluding his tour of Hainan, Slava said that the charm of the island lies not only in its enchanting natural scenery and distinctive cuisine but also in its child-friendly environment, simple and friendly folk customs, and overall safety.

In his view, Hainan has long surpassed the definition of a traditional tropical island and is thriving as an important microcosm of China's future development.

Thanks to his vlog, China's only tropical island province has become a potential future destination for thousands of overseas viewers. From its coconut groves, azure seas, and warmth of its urban communities to the vibrant development of the Hainan FTP and cutting-edge technologies, Hainan has stepped through the lens and onto the global stage, drawing visitors from around the world to come and experience its unique charm and forward-looking attitude.