Cheap mass tourism hinders authentic experiences, explorations

I can't remember how many times I have been to Yunnan and its capital, Kunming. But my recent trip to Xishuangbanna in the southernmost part of the province is my fifth visit to the prefecture, known for its lush tropical forests and diverse populace.

To someone who had fond memories of the beautiful place, the trip was a disappointment.

Cheap mass tourism has taken over, leading to vicious and even illicit competition among travel agencies. A case in point: In April, a woman tour guide in Xishuangbanna verbally abused her group of tourists on a bus after she could not get them to buy more souvenirs. The incident raised an online uproar.