For most travelers, flying into Urumqi Diwopu International Airport marks their first step into the Xinjiang province. Here I answer the top 4 questions about flying to/from Urumqi, Xinjiang.

When your home is made of mud-brick, sometimes it’s hard to decorate. Perhaps that’s why something as simple as a door becomes an ornate masterpiece for many Uyghur homes in Xinjiang?

Xinjiang is known for some crazy things, but only one odd fact has landed the Chinese province in the Guinness Book of World Records: Xinjiang is home to the geographic center of Asia. It’s the point furthest from the sea than anywhere else in the world.

Last week a good friend and fellow Xinjiang-enthusiast loaned me a copy of Life magazine dated December 13, 1943. I get excited about these type of things (it’s weird, I know) and even after a quick glance I knew I wasn’t going to be disappointed.

Invited to a Uyghur wedding? Sleeping in a Kazak Yurt? Traveling during a religious festival? Take this quick lesson on Central Asian etiquette and you’ll be ready for any situation you face in Xinjiang.

Hidden in a small valley between an extension of the Flaming Mountains, this gorgeous Turpan gem is surprisingly unknown to most travelers. Tuyoq Valley is a living museum of Uyghur history and a representation of the region’s glorious mixture of dry and fertile landscape.

Xinjiang’s far west city of Kashgar is full of secrets. The Apak Khoja Mazar (Mausoleum) is no different. Are the stories a myth?

A lot is changing in Kashgar, but what will it look like in 20 years? Here’s a glimpse into China’s dream of the future.

One of the most visually rewarding destinations in Xinjiang’s capital of Urumqi is the International Grand Bazaar (国际大巴扎). But is it a must-see site or just a tourist trap?

I’m sad to report that an incident in Korla, Xinjiang around 3pm on March 7, 2013 has resulted in the death of at least 4 people, with up to 13 others possibly injured. [Warning: graphic photos]