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MONKEY BUSINESS: The lush hinterland is teeming with wildlife including many rare species.
Day-tripping
Long before large numbers of Han Chinese began migrating to Hainan during the Song Dynasty (960–1276), the island was populated by the Li, an ethnic minority from southern China known for their women’s intricate facial tattoos. Li, as well as members of the Miao tribe, still live
on the island, and it’s worth arranging a
trip to their villages to see another side of Hainan (The touristy Li and Miao Village at Bing Lang Gu is not recommended). Ask your resort’s concierge to set up a private tour. And during your visit, always request permission before taking photos.
Inland, Hainan is still covered with
subtropical rainforests where black crested gibbons, clouded leopards and numerous bird species dwell. A two-hour drive from Sanya, the 172-square-mile Jianfengling National Forest Park (admission $16.30), in the island’s southwest, provides your best chance to spot these rare animals. Make sure to go with a guide; this can be arranged by a tour agency or through your hotel. A good day trip from Haikou is the Shishan Volcanic Cluster National Geopark
(about nine miles away; admission $12.55) a collection of dramatic craters and caves formed by long-ago eruptions. But however you choose to spend your time on Hainan, you’re sure to leave refreshed.
STAY
RCI AFFILIATED RESORTS ON HAINAN INCLUDE:
noble Yacht Club 7481
Just 15 minutes from downtown Haikou, this resort has peaceful gardens and rooms with sweeping sea views.
99 W. Binhai Rd., Haikou
MEMBER REVIEW: “Lovely morning beach walks. The staffs were helpful and friendly.”
HnA @ International Asia Pacific Convention Center Sanya 8585
A beachfront property in Haikou, set in a lush tropical garden and close to many major attractions. 111 W. Binhai Rd., Haikou
MEMBER REVIEW: “If you want to get away from it all, this is the place.”
HNA @ Kangle Garden 8586
This 42-acre resort has natural hot springs, tropical gardens, a golf course and tennis courts. Kang Le Garden, Wanning, Xinlong
MEMBER REVIEW: “Hot-springs water in the showers. Nice landscaping.”
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