Given that we are accepting applications for the Winter/Spring 2015 Panda internship, we thought it would be appropriate to share some of our past experiences from our time in Ya’an, China. Even though the majority of an interns time will be spent at the panda base collecting data, there is still ample time to enjoy all the sights, sounds, and tastes that the city has to offer.

Bridge connecting North and South Ya'an

Bridge connecting North and South Ya’an

Ya’an is a big city packed into a small package. You can ride a bike across the city proper in about 25-30 minutes. There is a university, a hospital, a movie theater and a grand total of two fast food establishments. Public transportation is very popular, but so are the rickshaw rides. Weather you need a new iPhone or baby formula, there are several shops to sell you whatever it is you might need. Even though you may be the only foreigner in the entire city, there are plenty of western amenities. After you clear yourself of the jet lag, the city is very comfortable on all accounts.

If you have any questions about Ya’an or the Panda Base, please don’t hesitate to send us an email. Please click on the photos to view a larger version. Enjoy!