CHENGDU, CHINA; CITYSNAP.

What''s worth seeing? Among the culture, tropical climate and traditional teahouses, China''s fourth largest city, Chengdu, is most visited for the world's only giant panda breeding and research centre. Located six miles from the city centre, the centre provides an interesting day trip for only pounds 3 and you can hug a panda for about pounds 45.

Feeling peckish? Head to Baguo Buyi Restaurant to try the authentic local dishes. It is located near Lingshiguan Lu, around the town of Chengdu. The locals love their spicy food but the house speciality is the gelatinous green turtle stewed with taro which is known as Yuer Shao Jiayu in Chengdu. But if you''re not feeling as adventurous the Huiguo Houpi Cai is a safer option. This is a preparation of thick-skinned greens that are cooked twice. It is a leafy green vegetable that is boiled and stir fried in a delicious broad bean sauce. You can eat for around pounds 6.50 but credit cards are not accepted. To get to Baguo Buyi Restaurant you can take buses numbered 16 or 99.

Where we can stay? For a five star experience try the Crowne Plaza which is situated in the heart of the city centre. This luxury hotel is 18km from the airport and 6km from the railway station (call 0871 423 4878). However, if you are looking for a comfortable hotel on an affordable budget, The Comfort Inn offers this with the added bonus of free internet. Visit www.jinjianginns.com for more information.

How do we get there? Although there are no direct flights to Chengdu from any UK airports, Air France operate non-stop flights there from Paris. Plenty of other connections are available via other cities in Asia. Try www.flightmapping.com for the best deals.

What shall we take home? The city of Chengdu is one of the few remaining cities which have a really authentic tea house or Chadian culture, so authentic teas are a must to bring back.

When''s best to go? The best time to visit Chengdu is from March to June and from September to November. July and August are the hottest months. The subtropical monsoon climate brings the annual average temperature in Chengdu to about 16C (61F). Another distinctive feature is humidity with clouds and mist and little sunlight. Chengdu''s summer is sultry with low temperature morning and evening, but high after noon.