🏨 Yunnan Solo Trip — Hotel Reviews & Ratings
1️⃣ Kunming Kai Wah Plaza Hotel | ⭐️ 9/10
Booked this cause it is super near the highspeed railway station (just down the road).. The room was very spacious and clean, though the interior felt a little dated. Still a solid choice for convenience, especially if you have early trains to catch.
2️⃣ Four Points by Sheraton Kunming City Centre | ⭐️ 10/10
Amazing location with multiple large shopping malls nearby and within walking distance to 昆明老街 (Kunming Old Street). The room felt slightly smaller than Kai Wah Plaza but was still very comfortable. The staff kindly offered me complimentary breakfast, and the buffet spread was excellent.
3️⃣ Dali San Se Yun He (Erhai Shuanglang Branch) | ⭐️ 100/10
THAT VIEW. Absolutely unreal. I honestly wanted to stay in the hotel all day. Everything in the room was complimentary including mini bar, tea, soft drinks, facial masks, even hair ties.
Since cars aren’t allowed into Shuanglang Ancient Town, the butler met me at the entrance and transported me (and my luggage) to the hotel via buggy (such a unique experience). They also provide free breakfast, afternoon tea, and even a photoshoot. Truly unforgettable.
4️⃣ Dali Impression Shuiyue Yinshi Hotel | ⭐️ 9.5/10
Minus 0.5 points for location. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Dali Ancient Town, and the walk can feel a bit scary at night due to limited street lighting (quite common in Yunnan). That said, it’s only a 5-minute Didi ride.
The rooftop view is stunning, overlooking 苍山 (Cangshan) and traditional ethnic houses. Staff were very friendly and helped carry luggage upstairs (no lift). Breakfast was tasty and could be delivered to the room. Didi can drop you right at the entrance, which is very convenient.
5️⃣ Lijiang VENTO Sunlit Golden Peak Lake View Vacation Hotel | ⭐️ 9/10
The view… honestly feels illegal. Are we living on the same earth? You can watch both sunrise and sunset directly from your room.
The staff were incredibly kind and thoughtful. Complimentary airport/train station pick-up and drop-off are provided for stays of three nights or more (I got a free ride to Lijiang station). Since it’s about a 10-minute drive from Lijiang Ancient Town, the hotel helps book free Didi rides to the old town (return trip is on your own).
They also pack light breakfast for early departures (e.g. Jade Snow Mountain or early trains) and offer free afternoon tea if you’re back early. Minus 1 point for the surroundings at night though. It was very dark, no street lamps, and an abandoned building nearby. My driver and several didi drivers had difficulty finding the location.
I booked all these hotels via trip.com. As I solo travelled, I can't split the cost. All the rooms I booked can definitely fit 2 pax, so it is cheaper if you travel with others.
When considering a stay in Yunnan, exploring homestay options can offer a wonderfully authentic experience. While hotels provide comfort and amenities, homestays immerse you in local culture, often run by warm local families who share insights into Yunnan's rich heritage. For example, many homestays in Dali Ancient Town and nearby villages provide cozy rooms that blend traditional styles with modern comforts. Staying in these can deepen your connection to the region, with opportunities to enjoy homemade meals, participate in local festivals, or learn about traditional crafts. If you plan a solo trip like I did, a homestay can be a place to meet fellow travelers and locals, providing a welcoming atmosphere that’s often missed in larger hotels. Booking through local platforms or trusted sites can help find homestays with good reviews and reliable hospitality. Additionally, when booking homestays in Yunnan, always check transport options as some may be in remote locations. It’s useful to arrange pick-ups in advance or ensure accessible local transport, especially if exploring ancient towns or scenic spots around Erhai Lake or Cangshan Mountain. In my experience, blending hotel stays with a couple of nights in carefully chosen homestays can balance convenience with cultural immersion, enriching your Yunnan trip.
