For most people, travelling is an opportunity to experience new places, meet new people, and capture unforgettable moments. However, for Colombian content creator Gao Fei (高飞), Xinjiang—a region often misrepresented in Western media—has become a personal mission. Having visited the vast and culturally rich Chinese province 10 times since 2021, Gao has dedicated much of his work to showing the world the authentic side of Xinjiang through the lens of his camera.
Gao, a travel blogger and social media influencer, arrived in Xinjiang for the first time after being unsettled by the inaccurate portrayals he saw in Western news. What he found was a vastly different reality. "I've lived in China for nearly 20 years, and I knew that the stories I saw in the media didn't reflect what was happening here," he explains. "I wanted to come and experience Xinjiang for myself, to capture the truth and share it with others."
Discovering Xinjiang's Majestic Beauty
Xinjiang is known for its stunning landscapes—rolling grasslands, dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling lakes, and vast deserts. For Gao, these natural wonders have been one of the key reasons for his repeated visits. His video footage captures the grandeur of places like the vast grasslands of Ili, the crystal-clear waters of Bosten Lake, and the vast Taklamakan Desert.
"The first time I visited Bosten Lake in 2022, it was beautiful, but I noticed how quickly the area developed. This time, just over a year later, there's a new ring road around the lake, making it easier for tourists to explore. The development of Xinjiang's tourism is moving fast," Gao notes, impressed by the region's ability to blend modernization with preservation.
For Gao, however, Xinjiang's true allure goes beyond its geography. It's about the people he meets along the way. Whether during a stroll through the bustling bazaars of Urumqi or a quiet moment in a local village, Gao finds inspiration in the kindness and openness of Xinjiang's residents. "What struck me was the ordinary people living their lives—smiling, working, and sharing their everyday happiness," he says.
Gao's journey through Xinjiang has been marked by exploring its landscapes and genuine connections with the people who call the region home. He recalls an unforgettable evening spent with his wife in a small town in southern Xinjiang, where they stumbled upon a group of locals dancing in the street. The simple joy and warmth of the community moved him deeply. "It was just a Saturday night, and people of all ages were dancing together. It was such a beautiful, pure moment of happiness," he says, describing it as one of the most memorable experiences of his trips.
Moments like these have shaped Gao's view of Xinjiang—not as a place defined by political narratives or media sensationalism but as a land of rich culture, vibrant traditions, and everyday joy. His videos capture these moments, providing a glimpse into the lives of Xinjiang's people, from the children playing in the streets to the elderly sharing stories over tea.
However, despite the authenticity of his content, Gao's work has not been without its critics. Some viewers question the accuracy of his portrayal, focusing on the fact that his videos often highlight well-known tourist destinations like the Grand Bazaar in Urumqi or the ancient city of Kashgar. Gao addresses these concerns directly, explaining that he chooses these spots not to mislead viewers but because they represent Xinjiang's unique blend of history and culture. "When people visit, they want to see the most iconic and special places, and that's why these locations are featured," he says.
To offer a deeper and more nuanced perspective, Gao decided to embark on a more personal journey—one that would take him off the beaten path and into the heart of Xinjiang's lesser-known corners.
In the spring of 2023, Gao set out on a four-month self-driving adventure through Xinjiang with his wife, their two cats, and their dog. Their route took them through 40 counties in the region's northern and southern parts, travelling over 10,000 kilometres. This was a profoundly personal trip for Gao, as it allowed him to experience the diversity and beauty of Xinjiang with the freedom of a road trip.
"Xinjiang is perfect for self-driving. It gives you the freedom to go where you want, to discover new places at your own pace," Gao explains. Along the way, he encountered moments of unexpected kindness—like when he was approached by four local children in Ili, who knocked on the door of his RV to ask if they could play with his pets. "It was such a touching moment. The kids were so open and friendly. It shows how safe and welcoming the people here are," Gao shares.
For Gao, these interactions are what make Xinjiang truly special. It's not just the landscapes or historical sites but the people, their stories, and how they welcome outsiders with open arms. "Whenever I leave Xinjiang, I'm already planning my next visit," he says. "It's a place that stays with you long after you leave."
Spreading the Truth Through Social Media
Today, Gao continues to share his experiences on various social media platforms, reaching audiences in China and abroad. His work is not just about promoting Xinjiang as a travel destination; it's about sharing the truth he's discovered—about the land's beauty, the warmth of its people, and the life that pulses through its communities.
"My goal is simple," Gao says. "I want to show people the Xinjiang I know. A place where people live in harmony, enjoy their lives and are proud of their culture. I want to help break the stereotypes and provide a fair, truthful picture of the region."
For Gao, Xinjiang is not just a destination. It's a journey that continues to inspire, challenge, and fuel his desire to share the region's true story with the world. And as he plans his next visit, he remains committed to his mission: showing Xinjiang's beauty to a global audience and sharing the truth through the lens of his camera.
