Introduction

Dali/Xiaguan is situated in the northwest of Yunnan Province. Dali City is the economic and cultural center of the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. It is divided into two areas—the Ancient Town and the New District (widely known as Xiaguan). The Ancient Town is more than 1000 years old and attracts tourists from all over the world who especially enjoy visiting the renowned 'Foreigners' Street'. Xiaguan is located to the south of the Ancient Town and is home to the government of the prefecture. Dali is mainly influenced by the culture of the Bai people, however, other ethnic minority groups including the Yi and the Hui, also contribute to its unique cultural heritage.

The population of Dali Prefecture is about 3.3 million, with the Bai making up one-third of the total. The climate is fairly mild all year round; summer temperatures range between 15-26ºC and winter temperatures between 2-15ºC. The rainy season usually starts in June and ends in late September or early October.

MSI's Work in Dali

In 2004, an MSI short-term team engaged in some work among the disabled in Midu County. It has been a challenge to continue with this work due to the lack of long-term workers.

In August 2007, MSI placed an English teacher at the Dali No.1 Middle School. Several weeks later, he was joined by a long-term family and the first Dali team was formed. The government has invited MSI to explore community and development projects in nearby Yangbi County. This work is in its initial stage. There are plans to visit and survey the county before definite projects can begin.

Opportunities

Long-term and short-term opportunities exist for medical work, community development, community health, English teaching, teacher training as well as business enterprise.