From June 8-12th, my family take a 5 days trip to Qingdao, which is a seaside city in Shandong province. Our much-anticipated family adventure to Qingdao start with a comfortable 4.5-hour high-speed train journey. Upon arrival, we settled into a charming, family-friendly homestay nestled near Wu-Si Square(五四广场). This delightful accommodation boasted two cozy bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen. To our pleasant surprise, it even featured a mini indoor playground for children, ensuring our little ones were entertained right from the start.

As dusk fell, we embarked on a leisurely stroll through Wu-Si Square and the Olympic Sailing Center（奥帆中心）. The square, adorned with iconic landmarks like the towering "Wind of May" sculpture, pulsed with vibrant energy. The Olympic Sailing Center was a sight to behold. Yachts gently swayed in the harbor, their masts silhouetted against the inky night sky. We savored a sumptuous seafood dinner, indulging in local specialties such as succulent grilled prawns, fried porks and fresh oysters, which perfectly complemented the seaside ambiance.

The next day was filled with exploration. Our first stop was Signal Hill Park（信号山公园）. As we climbed the winding paths, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the city's red-tiled rooftops, the shimmering sea, and the bustling streets below.

Then, we visited Catholic Church of Qingdao（圣弥厄尔大教堂）, an architectural masterpiece with its imposing Gothic spires and intricate stained glass windows. The solemn atmosphere inside was both awe-inspiring and peaceful, transporting us to another era.

Xiaomai Island Park（小麦岛公园） was a haven of natural beauty. The island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, was dotted with blooming wildflowers and swaying reeds. We meandered along the scenic coastal paths, breathing in the fresh sea breeze and listening to the rhythmic crashing of waves against the rocks.

Our final destination of the day was the Zhanqiao Pier（栈桥）, a symbol of Qingdao. The long pier extended gracefully into the sea, with the iconic Octagonal Pavilion at its end.

On the third day, we delved into the mysterious underwater world at Qingdao Underwater World（青岛海底世界）. It was like stepping into a different realm, filled with a dazzling array of marine life. Colorful tropical fish swam gracefully among the coral reefs. We were spellbound by the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibition, where these ethereal creatures drifted and pulsed, creating a magical light show.

In the afternoon, we made our way to Huangdao District and checked into a seaside hotel. This hotel boasted a pristine private beach, with sand that felt like silk beneath our feet. From our room, we were treated to breathtaking views of the endless ocean and the golden beach stretching as far as the eye could see. As the sun began to set, we joined in the exciting activity of beachcombing. Armed with buckets and nets, we explored the tide pools, discovering an abundance of treasures. We collected beautiful seashells, marveled at the delicate jellyfish, and even caught a few hermit crabs. To our excitement, we managed to snag a small fish! As night fell, the beach transformed into a wonderland, with the moon casting a silvery glow over the water.

The final day of our trip started with the spectacular sunrise over the ocean. The sky gradually turned from inky black to a riot of oranges, pinks, and purples as the sun slowly emerged from the horizon, casting a warm glow over everything. We spent the morning relaxing on the beach, building sandcastles, and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. This was the first time my mother and my child had seen the ocean. We took countless photos, capturing every precious moment, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. As we reluctantly said goodbye to Qingdao, we knew that this trip would always hold a special place in our hearts.

Yours Truly

Stella Ceoi - Charmission Travel