Chenzhou Travel Guide: The Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for College Students for a Two-Day, One-Night Trip!

Travel Section: Departing from Guangzhou Station, it only takes 1.5 hours by high-speed train to reach Chenzhou West Station, with ticket prices around 170+ yuan. If time and budget allow, you can also opt for the more nostalgic sleeper train, which takes longer (about 4.5 hours) but is more affordable and offers a closer look at local life. Upon disembarking at Chenzhou Station, you can immediately taste the authentic Yu Fen and Sha Zhu Fen, both delicious and economical. Since the attractions are quite far apart, it is recommended to book a ride-share through a legitimate platform. Although you may encounter drivers who charge extra, it is still generally economical. Landscape and Food Exploration: The first recommended destination is Gaoyiling, known for its spectacular Danxia landform. The best time to visit is on a clear day, which will result in better photo outcomes. For ticket prices, students with valid IDs can enjoy a half-price discount at only 49 yuan; adults pay 96 yuan. The tour route includes the Stonehenge, the challenging Dengyun Ladder, cliff plank walkways, the Giant Lizard Lake resembling a green iguana, Dragon's Back, suspension bridges, and the Shouting Spring among many other unique landscapes. Remember to bring supplies, as goods are relatively expensive at the mountain top. In the evening, head to the freely accessible Yuhou Street, which, as the lights come on, feels like a 'Little Suzhou' in the Jiangnan water town style. Consider climbing the arch bridge for a panoramic view of Yuhou Street and try on various ethnic costumes for a photo shoot. The next morning, be sure to visit the enchanting Dongjiang Lake, where the misty surface of the lake at this time creates a unique atmosphere. Depending on your schedule, you can choose different routes; student tickets are only 40 yuan. If you're on a tight schedule and can only experience Route One, it's still enough to enjoy the beauty of Xiao Dongjiang, watch the fisherman's net casting performance, take a leisurely boat ride, take commemorative photos, visit waterfalls, the hydroelectric station, and ride the thrilling 'over-mountain' sightseeing car. Additionally, the food by Dongjiang Lake is equally tempting, with local snacks like fried salmon, Qiao Mouth Fish, and desserts like Bing Fen and Ci Ba, all of which are not to be missed. Accommodation Strategy: We chose a homestay in a villa area near Dongjiang Lake, which was quiet and elegant, surrounded by beautiful peach blossoms. The original price for the double room we booked was 88 yuan, but the considerate landlord upgraded us to a room equipped with a projector. Both the interior decoration and the facilities were very well-designed, clean, and new, making it an extremely cost-effective choice. It's worth mentioning that by sharing photos of the homestay on social media, you can even enjoy free electric bike rides.