21 places to make an economical journey

[Photo/Global Times]

Gulangyu Island, Xiamen, Fujian

Gulangyu Island is located off the coast of Xiamen in Fujian province, a favorite tourist attraction. The Chinese name also has musical roots, as gu lang means "drum waves," due to the sound generated by the ocean waves hitting the reefs. Yu means "islet".

Gulangyu Island has about 20,000 permanent residents who enjoy a comfortable, relaxing lifestyle. Only electric-powered vehicles are permitted on the island, so the environment is free from the noise and pollution from combustion engines. With classical and romantic European-style architecture, the island truly deserves to be called an "Architecture Museum".