Under $100: Guilin, China

One day is not enough time to explore all of the wonders in and around Guilin. But if you find yourself short on time and with a limited budget, you can certainly still enjoy this beautiful city.

Start with breakfast at Li Café for an impressive selection from the buffet, featuring both Chinese and international cuisine. A meal here costs only $10. This should fill you up before a climb up Xianggong Hill where you’ll be treated with terrific views of the karst landscape and the Li River. Next, make your way to Fuli Ancient Town to paint your own Chinese fan. The small neighborhood dates back to the Qing Dynasty with many of the homes constructed as early as 1644.

Make a pit stop at Rice Noodles Pub to try the local Guilin favorite cuisine. A bowl of rice noodles will run you less than $10. Head northeast of the city for a stop at Guilin Tea Research Institute. This 100-acrea farm is home to more than 250 tea plants and a great place to learn the process of growing it and why it’s important to the region. Set aside $20 to take some home.

After returning to the center of the city take a stroll along Zhengyang Pedestrian Street or West Street to explore the ample shopping opportunities or mingle with expats and locals. The busy shopping area is a great place to relax or people watch.

When the sun goes down you’ll want to head to the Sun and Moon Towers. They’re built in the style of Buddhist pagodas and made of copper and marble. They light up at night for some breathtaking views. From there, take a stroll through one of the city’s night markets before stopping for dinner at Rosemary Café. A meal here will run you $20.