I'd check Yieryi Dajie （一二一大街） just east of the Yunnan University north gate. If you walk east from the gate you'll have two major computer markets and several smaller stores on your right over the next two blocks.

After two blocks if you turn right you'll find a whole street of computer-related stores on Yuantong Bei Lu, all the way to the zoo. Hope that helps.

Chris

Hi Kermit,

You might want to stop by Mandarin Bookstore on Wenhua Xiang near Yunnan University's west gate. One of the owners wrote a book about Chinese chess, I think it was in English. Good luck.

Chris

What about late-night grub? All I know is the Halfway House kitchen is usually open til twoish and the Jinbi Lu McDonald's is 24 hours... anywhere else for the post-midnight munchies?

Chris

In terms of clothes, you and your wife might find it difficult to find what you're looking for in Kunming, but finding clothes for the kids shouldn't be a problem. Men's shoe sizes usually don't go beyond 9ish (US size) and most of my female friends have trouble finding shoes they like, so you might want to consider that. I'd probably bring plenty of socks too.

In terms of appliances, I'd say you can buy most of that here, even computers.

If you plan on buying bicycles here in Kunming, you may want to consider bringing some quality bike locks with you as they are difficult to find.

Other than these things, you may want to bring some things from where you're from in the states to give as gifts. You will likely make some local friends... it's always nice to give people something they don't normally have access to. I hope that helps, good luck with the move.

Hi Saad,

I imagine there should be an English school in Jinghong, don't know of any personally. You might want to try contacting Sarah at Forest Cafe (www.forest-cafe.org), she is very knowledgable about the city.

Good luck,
Chris