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"I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Today, it is a major tourist attraction in Beijing, drawing people freely through its gates to admire the architecture, the parks and green spaces, and the narrow passages between them. It was known as the Forbidden City, because during its heyday, permission to enter or leave its walls had to be granted by the Emperor himself. Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. "People come over as families and farm together. This building complex was once the Imperial Palace, and now houses the Palace Museum. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." The Forbidden City complex in Beijing is another must on any sight-seer�s list of amazing Chinese places. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. There are other wonderful sights to see in China, but these three are ones that simply cannot be missed when you visit the country.It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. Chinese vacation goers are often overwhelmed by this site, and have been known to spend hours, wandering the length and breadth of it. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. While it might not be the location that naturally comes to mind when you think about getting away for some relaxation, there are some things in China that will make your trip a truly special and relaxing one. From state-sponsored open spaces, to ancient Imperial homes and even religious and spiritual sites, there is something for everyone who visits China with the aim of finding relaxation.Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. If you are looking for your next vacation destination, you might want to consider going to China for vacation. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. china vacations Bejing vacation in China China Packages

Tags: chinese, tourist, china, farm, million

Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. It is the largest city square in the world, and is surrounded by such wonders as the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, and several museums. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . And you can be sure of the quality. Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. 'Organic Farm'. Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. The square was designed to reflect the pride of China. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. Contact: Ms. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. Ltd. Tours regularly stop there, and wander the expansive open space.Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) While there are some negative impressions and events attached to it now, Tiananmen Square was meant to be a very peaceful part of Beijing. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. Visiting the Forbidden City China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades China is a world unlike anything in Western culture, and truly must be experienced to be believed. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. If you are looking for the ultimate trip for your next scheduled time away from work, vacationing in China might well fit the bill. A vacation in China will truly be a trip of a lifetime, and will become a story that your Vegas-bound friends will be envious of. Nowhere else can offer the same combination of the excitement and history of the Silk Road; the ancient wonders of the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall; or the cultural influences of art, architecture and other cultural touchstones.

Tags: organic, brand, china, supermarket, store

"You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor."People come over as families and farm together. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Vacations to China Better Than Vegas Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. For any baseball fan, this is a great chance to see players that you would normally never get a chance to watch, and see a ball park that most people will only ever hear about.Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception. The Beijing Tigers actually predate the league by many years, and have been the most successful team in the CBL, winning the championships three times. The CBL is now partnered with the more established Nippon Professional Baseball league of Japan, allowing for transfers between the two countries to better grow the sport. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. While in China, you will see many wonderful sights, but there are three that will rival anything you can see anywhere else in the sporting world: Baseball. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time.

Tags: farm, china, happy, day, li

Contact: Ms. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. Do your research before you buy.If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. The tour guides know the best places to eat, and will lead you to small, unknown little restaurants that will serve food so good, you will want to leave a trail of breadcrumbs back to the hotel. If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. For every great tour of an unknown but intense site, there are dozens more that will do little aside from dropping you off for an afternoon at a Great Wall tourist trap. 'Organic Farm'. These grounds tend to attract those looking to get some exercise outdoors, including everything from sparring martial artists to slow but steady joggers. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. And you can be sure of the quality. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. Ltd. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. These human-powered wagons offer a great view of the cities you visit, and often take you down routes that a cab or bus would never go. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) If you are itching to do some travelling, but do not know where to begin, perhaps you ought to look into some China vacation tours. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people. Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. One of the great sights that you might be able to view in China includes the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. These rickshaw rides are often combined with a traditional tour, to give you a chance to pick up some local flavour. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. These tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. Drinking Chinese Tea China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look Cha means tea. If you prefer not to deal with a travel agent, you can contact the airlines directly. If we’ve friends around, perhaps we brew a whole pot. Sometimes in this process, the tea can become an afterthought as the towers of sweets dominate the visual scene. If you have booked a tour in China, this can be problematic. Scoop, tongs and small scoop for taking dry tea and handling the hot tea pot and cups Tea tray – a wooden tray with slats on top and an open chamber within in which excess hot water is poured (the chamber can be emptied) Teapot – the preferred teapot in China, especially for Oolong teas, are small clay teapots from Yixing (pronounced “ee-shing") Glass decanter – a small vessel in which the brewed tea is poured Small metal sieve that will fit on the mouth of your decanter preventing loose tea leaves entering the decanter Fragrance cup – thimble-shaped, receives the first brewed tea Tea cup – small cup from which you drink The following gives you the instructions for preparing Chinese Oolong tea, called gongfu cha . While ultimately a social activity, when drinking Chinese tea, one enjoys the fragrance, the color and varying tastes of the tea as the brew grows stronger. Short-leaf Oolong is traditionally brewed in a clay teapot and green teas are best enjoyed in a glass pot. Aside from the brewing (pot) and drinking (cup) instruments, traditional tea drinking involves a whole set of utensils. Many airlines have partnerships with hotel providers and tour operators, and can either book you directly for the entirety of your package, or can at least direct you to their partner for more information. You can also enquire with the airline about the availability of last minute saver fares to China, which would be substantially less expensive, but would require you to be on standby for a flight that you might not end up taking. Furthermore, when it comes to casual tea at home, we tend to throw a tea bag into a saucer, add hot water and in a few minutes enjoy our steaming brew. And with black tea, we might even forget the tea itself because we're busy adding sugar or honey and perhaps a splash of milk. In China, tea-drinking traditions are quite different. In the West, formal tea drinking tends to be centered around grand hotel lobbies or tea-rooms where tea is accompanied by an array of sandwiches and cakes. Similar to good wine, Chinese teas command different vessels depending on the type of tea.

Tags: tea, organic, china, tour, brand

it is almost having a genie waft out of its bottle! The age of the British Raj called Shimla the summer capital of the country. The place offers some great scenic views which put your mind and soul to rest. Hong Kong is among the world�s most important shipping and commerce centers. Skating, fishing and angling become quite popular during this season, and with the Shimla Manali tour package , you can sure enjoy them all! The Shimla Manali package will ensure that tourists can get to see all the important places that Shimla has to offer. At the times when you feel like almost melting away under the Indian summer sun, these ideal hill stations offer the best relief that you could have ever imagined! To name a few: If you go with Manali Honeymoon package, you can get to visit the Gaiety theatre, Railway Board Building, Ellerslie, Viceroy Building and Christ Church. You will be taken to the seven hills of this city from where you can have a panoramic view of the entire place! It is one of the most densely populated areas of China, cramming seven million people onto an island of less than 500 square miles. When you go to China on vacation, Xi�an must be on the itinerary � if not for the above-listed reasons, then for the infamous Terracotta Warriors that were found nearby.The differences mean that visiting Hong Kong is unlike any other trip within China. Xi�an was also the first capital city of what we now know as the country of China. This has traditionally been the seat of power in China, and the Imperial Palace is still standing in the city, and now serves as a popular tourist attraction and museum. So go ahead, make your choice and have a great vacation that is hard to forget! Where should you go in China on vacation? But Shimla is quite exciting not only because of its marvelous weather, but also for the gamut of sport activities it provides for all strong and brave hearts. This is beginning of the legendary Silk Road that was the main route for commerce and trade for centuries in Asia. The city has an ancient history, and the many palaces, religious temples and old tenements give you a taste of what Beijing was like in the past. The package will include a rendezvous to the historical sites which stand as the glorious symbol of the rich cultural heritage of North Himachal Pradesh. The capital city of China, it is the best known of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China. There are fossil records that show that this area has been populated as long as six thousand years ago. You start feeling an inner peace that is hard to find anywhere else. Best Manali Tour Operators – Complete Transparency The Manali package tours offer you everything you require. Vashisht Temple, the Manali Temple, Rothang Pass, Hot water springs, Rahala waterfalls, Solang valley are few of the exciting sites or tourist sot visit. Think of Shimla and Manali, when you feel like spending your holidays with that classic touch of sensuousness that we all miss in our everyday lives. The holiday packages of Manali from IndiaTourTrip.com provides customer support day in and day out, plus they take the payments in 3 installments,. It will be as great as it usually is in your dreams. Moreover, this place is the ideal destination for adventure seekers, and for adrenaline junkies who wish to go out river rafting on the Beas, or mountain trekking or climbing. Hong Kong sits on the south coastal area of China, and is famous for its Western-style buildings and culture, despite a majority of the population being Chinese. With over 13 million people within its borders and more than 17 million if you take into account the surrounding municipalities, Beijing is the second largest city in China, after Shanghai. Jakhoo Hill, Observatory Hill, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, Elysium hill, Inveram hill and Botany Hill are truly remarkable places that you will never forget in your entire life! But the Manali Honeymoon Package has more to offer. Beijing is the obvious choice, as it will likely be the city that you fly into when you arrive in China. And with Shimla Manali tour package , your dreams are about to come true! Places to see in Shimla Shimla is well known to the world as the queen of the hill stations in India. If you wish to go for fishing, angling or even ice skating, your wish will be granted as soon as possible! Xi�an is less of a modern city than Beijing or Hong Kong, but it has important contributions to China that make it a worthy destination on your China trip. A colony of Great Britain since the first Opium Wars of the 1800s, it reverted to Chinese rule in 1997. The city is unique in China, and runs on a completely different system than the rest of the country. Delhi To Shimla, Kullu, Manali on a Honeymoon ‘Hotel’ Tour Package Mar 4, 2010 Rahul Dutta Gupta Think of waking up in the cool morning with the sun-warmed air to give you comfort; think of a day in the laps of the mountains high, with the sun marching across the blue with slow steps; think of a night in the isolated peace, with the nearby stream to carry your thoughts away to a faraway place. Heli skiing, paragliding, skiing, golfing and trekking are few of the unending options in the list. If you are going to China, there are three cities you must visit while you are there. Thus it is easier to opt for these holiday package tours. You can go for any of them; either you choose the Shimla Manali tour packages or the Himachal Tour packages, but your overall experiences will the same. You can get to see many temples and age-old architecture. Hong Kong is unlike any other city in China. But despite being the second largest, it was still the first choice for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. With them, you can see places like the State Museum, Kamna Devi Mandir, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Combermere Bridge, the mall, Scandal Point and the Sankat Mochan Temple. Rendezvous with Nature in Manali About 275 km away from Shimla there lays another land of Paradise. It is well known to all by the name Manali. Transparency is their key word, since you have an access to their institutes and their functioning at all times. During the winter, the nature dons anew garb, and the white fur of snow is draped on the grounds to form a splendid view. Zhujiajiao China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look It is a typical ancient water town in Qingpu, with over 700 years of history. But alas, this is China. All of these are a display of the towns ancient history. Zhujiajiao, known as “The Venice of Shanghai”, features waterways, arched stone bridges, ancient streets, stone walkways and well-preserved ancient buildings. History of Zhujiajiao The town dates back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. If you happen to be in anywhere near the Suzhou area, which is about an hour from Shanghai, it is definitely worth taking the time to visit this unique area where waterways, not roads, are the main mode of transport. In its heyday, Zhujiajiao served as a distribution centre for Chinese commodities such as silk, porcelain, crafts and grain. This garden is commonly named 'Ma Family Garden' after a former owner named Ma Wenqin. Gondoliers sing to passengers, their beautiful voices ringing through the air. On it are engraved eight Chinese dragons encircling a shining pearl. The Fangsheng Bridge is the longest, largest and the tallest stone bridge with five openings. Gardens and Architecture of China's Proud Past Like many of the waterside towns in this region, Zhujiajiao maintains private gardens which were originally created during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Ke Zhi Yuan (Good Manners Garden) boasts impressive Chinese gardens as well as ancient dwellings built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It offers timeless beauty and charm to artists, photographers, and visitors alike. A respect for the rich past and ancestry is evident. Zhujiajiao's Most Distinctive Features are Water Lanes and Historic Bridges Clearly one of Zhujiajiao most distinctive features is its water lanes. You will see all the major scenic parts of the area and be guaranteed the opportunity for memorable photographs of ancient bridges and homes which are still being used today. There are 36 bridges in Zhujiajiaovarying in style and shape, and made from wood, stone or marble. The residential homes there were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties often having two storeys and upturned eaves, white brick walls, black tiles, and crimson wooden windows and doors. The Fansheng Bridge contains on it a stone tablet called The Dragon Gate Stone. The atmosphere is one of antiquity. Gondola-rides will take tourists along the canal, which is spotted with weeping willow trees. In front of every house there is a stop leading down to the waterway. The nearly 100 classic courtyards and 60 carved-brick archways are still in use today. In Zhujiajiao, locals still live their lives on the history-steeped waterways. Situated on Great North Street, this is the town's largest manor-style private garden. Tourists will witness well-preserved ancient architecture, such as temples, towers, pagodas and residential buildings. The area lent well to this because of its unique geographical location. The town's population by China's standards is small with a population of a mere 60 thousand people in a 47 square kilometre area. What is special is how well the Chinese preserve their country's history. Each bridge has a name and a story. By no means is the water clean. The Venice of Shanghai Mar 3, 2010 Agnes Bellegris Zhujiajiao, which means "family bridge" is one of the most famous and best preserved old towns in the area. Everyday activities such as washing, shopping and transportation, continue to carry themselves out in its murky waters. Any Chinese vacations are going to be busy � once you get there, you will find that there is so much culture, art, architecture, history, sports and other amazing things to see, do, taste and experience. But if you are a history fan, or you want to experience something uniquely Chinese, there are three main sights in China that you simply cannot miss out on � the Terracotta Warriors of Xi�an, the Great Wall of China, and the Forbidden City in Beijing. The most famous two bridges are are the five-arch Fangsheng (Set Animals Free) Bridge built in 1571 in the Ming Dynasty and Lang (Veranda) Bridge, which is the only wooden bridge in this town. They do not speak English so if you are looking for an explanation of sights, hire a tour guide. These water lanes are the town's main roads, and the gondola is the most common mode of transport. Coming home without having experienced all three would be a terrible waste, and would require a return ticket as soon as possible!As in the rest of China, it is a murky, polluted brown and in the summer the stench will be quite strong. Perched at top of the bridge are four stone lions whose purpose is to guard the bridge against evil intruders.

Tags: china, bridge, manali, package, shimla

If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). 'Organic Farm'. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. And you can be sure of the quality. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. You can visit Tiananmen Square, and go through the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, or go to the Imperial summer home. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. From there, find peace in beauty with the Treasure Houses, or some spiritual peace at one of the many beautiful Buddhist temples in Beijing and other parts of China. Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. Contact: Ms. Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. Wandering in these amazing places can give you hours or full days of sights to behold.Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. Ltd. Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) If you are going to China for vacation but want to find some escapes from the business of your whirlwind trip, there are plenty of options for serenity seekers that make China a land of insight and quiet beauty. See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. Visiting the Forbidden City Vacations to China Better Than Vegas This former summer home features beautifully manicured gardens and green spaces, surrounding natural bodies of water. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. The other Imperial holdover that will aid in your search for relaxing but stimulating sites is the Summer Palace. This is an enormous site that can easily take up the better part of a day, should you wish to take your time and soak in the ambiance and quiet beauty.

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Hong Kong is unlike any other city in China. Open to visitors, The Pearl has several classes of entrance tickets providing access to various viewing platforms at different heights in the tower. From the ground, the buildings are prime examples of modern architecture. The Oriental Pearl Tower is perhaps the most famous skyscraper in Asia. With over 13 million people within its borders and more than 17 million if you take into account the surrounding municipalities, Beijing is the second largest city in China, after Shanghai. The capital city of China, it is the best known of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Included in the upper level tickets are entrance to the Shanghai History Museum in the basement of the Pearl, featuring wax replicas and models of historical Shanghai, and is worth a look when included in viewing platform admission prices. Rivaling The Pearl in terms of both height and design is the newer Shanghai World Financial Center. When you go to China on vacation, Xi�an must be on the itinerary � if not for the above-listed reasons, then for the infamous Terracotta Warriors that were found nearby. Beijing is the obvious choice, as it will likely be the city that you fly into when you arrive in China. This is beginning of the legendary Silk Road that was the main route for commerce and trade for centuries in Asia. Xi�an was also the first capital city of what we now know as the country of China. The city has an ancient history, and the many palaces, religious temples and old tenements give you a taste of what Beijing was like in the past. Located in Eastern China where the Yangtze Rive meets the East China Sea, China, Shanghai is an easily accessible destination for travelers and the perfect starting point or final destination on a trip to China. Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River, with colonial Old Shanghai located on the west bank, and the modern development of Pudong on the east. It is one of the most densely populated areas of China, cramming seven million people onto an island of less than 500 square miles. Hong Kong sits on the south coastal area of China, and is famous for its Western-style buildings and culture, despite a majority of the population being Chinese. One way tickets are available in either direction at ticket booths located at the tunnel entrance. Where should you go in China on vacation? It is easy to tackle the sites Pudong has to offer in a single day, as these popular attractions are compacted into a relatively small area. The BEst Sightseeing Observation Decks in Shanghai: The Oriental Pearl Tower , Jin Mao Tower , and the Shanghai World Financial Center Each of these towering buildings offers spectacular views of Shanghai, Pudong, and the outlying areas. The most picturesque views can be found at dusk as the lights across the river begin to light up The Bund. The Sightseeing Tunnel: Kitschy Transportation Fun Somewhat of a misnomer, The Sightseeing Tunnel provides kitsch value only. Its unique shape has come to represent modern Asian development. This has traditionally been the seat of power in China, and the Imperial Palace is still standing in the city, and now serves as a popular tourist attraction and museum. But despite being the second largest, it was still the first choice for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. There are fossil records that show that this area has been populated as long as six thousand years ago. The commercial and financial centre of Shanghai, Pudong is also home to the 2010 World Expo. Connected to Old Shanghai or Puxi by ferry, metro, and underground sightseeing tunnel, there are plenty of activities for visitors on this side of the river. Resembling a bottle opener, the Shanghai World Financial Center contains the world’s highest viewing platform and is currently the tallest building in China and Hong Kong. The Jin Mao Tower is home to the Park Hyatt Hotel’s famous open atrium between the 56th and 87th floor, as well as a large indoor observation deck on the 88th floor. The best view of futuristic Pudong itself is from The Bund, located in Old Shanghai. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: The World’s Longest Underwater Tunnel Boasting the world’s longest underwater viewing tunnel, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium will delight both the young, and young at heart. The Best Pudong Has to Offer in One Day Mar 8, 2010 Rachel West Shanghai offers a perfect blend of old world culture and new modern industrialism in China’s largest City. While the meals may not be worth the price, the views across the river to The Bund are well worth the cost of a drink on an outdoor patio or in a window-lined restaurant. The city is unique in China, and runs on a completely different system than the rest of the country. Open to tourists, each of these buildings contain viewing platforms at varying heights. A colony of Great Britain since the first Opium Wars of the 1800s, it reverted to Chinese rule in 1997. Feeding times in the exhibits vary and are posted at the aquarium’s entrance, usually with a morning and afternoon feeding, but are subject to change. Pudong Waterfront: Restaurants and Bars Pudong’s riverbank is lined with several restaurants and bars offering moderately overpriced Western foods for the most part. Displays feature information in English and provide plenty of photo opportunities. The differences mean that visiting Hong Kong is unlike any other trip within China. Hong Kong is among the world�s most important shipping and commerce centers. Compared to the metro and ferries, The Sightseeing Tunnel is the most expensive way to cross the river, but those with a sense of humour will enjoy the ride. Xi�an is less of a modern city than Beijing or Hong Kong, but it has important contributions to China that make it a worthy destination on your China trip. A well-maintained and modern aquarium, the complex features displays and exhibits from around the world. If you are going to China, there are three cities you must visit while you are there. There is a walkway winding along the river that provides a route taking in the various sights of towering skyscrapers, barges coming into dock, and new buildings being constructed. Individual tram cars smoothly and slowly glide along a track below the Huangpu River between Old and New Shanghai in a tunnel filled with flashing coloured lights. An unintentionally comical English narrative illustrates the various light effects such as “Meteor Shower” as the tram moves passengers across the river. The main attraction is the underwater tunnel, comprised of a series of moving walkways as visitors travel underwater amid sharks, turtles, and other sea life. Top 10 Things to Do in Inner Mongolia China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities Built under Qing Emperor Kangxi, it is modelled on Tashilhunbu in Tibet and boasts halls, apartments for Living Buddhas and over 2500 rooms. In China, culture is an important part of everyday life. Architecture in China is also an important part of their culture, with an emphasis on symmetry and width in their designs. It’s a great place to watch traditional sports and folk artists, enjoy the fabulous costumes and tasty food. Explore the Natural World, Gobi Desert and Grasslands in Inner Mongolia Join a camel safari in the Gobi desert or head for the ‘resonant sand gorge’ near Erdos to slide down a 90 metre high dune, with a 45º gradient. There’s a statue of Genghis Khan in the main hall with his four sons at his side. Head for Khan Town in West Ujimqin where 60 yurts recreate a Mongolian Palace. Inner Mongolia has over 1000 rivers and streams and as many lakes where one can canoe, swim and see the locals fish through the ice in winter. Enjoy the vast open spaces of the Mongolian grasslands. Stay in a yurt, watch archery and horse races or join the nomads herding sheep, goats or reindeer in some parts. Chinese operas are a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike. Desert surfing is also available. See the amazing granite rocks of the Stone Forest in Hexigten, take a dip in the hot springs of Arshan City or discover Poplar Island in the Yellow River. A beautiful example can be seen in the stunning design of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which was once the Chinese Imperial Palace, and is now the Palace Museum, and like the Xi�an Warriors, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Genghis Khan, Gobi, Grasslands & Temples in Mongolia, China Mar 7, 2010 Solange Hando Bordered by Outer Mongolia and Russia, Inner Mongolia became China’s first autonomous region in 1947 and now claims some 24 million people, with a large Han Chinese majority followed by native Mongols. Popular areas include Huhnor, the ‘place with the blue lake’, Xilamuren and Gegentala where the traditional Nadam Fair, or ‘frolicking’ fair, is held at the end of July. Discover Buddhist Temples in Mongolia , Northern China In Hohhot, see the Five Pagoda Temple with its wall inscriptions and gilded Buddhas. Marvel at murals, dragon sculpture and Silver Buddha in Dazhao, the ‘Great Temple’. Take a look at Xilituzhao, built in the 16th century for the third Dalai Lama, with golden roofs, gleaming walls and marble. Near Baotou, explore the Wudang Lamasery, an impressive monastery framed by mountains, willows and babbling stream. The capital is Hohhot, the largest city Baotou, natural resources fuel a booming industry and there’s even a space centre. But on an area covering 12% of China, there’s plenty to enthral adventurous travellers, from the Gobi desert and Mongolian grasslands dotted with yurts to Buddhist temples and memorials to Genghis Khan, founder of the Mongol Empire. Top 10 Things to Do, Follow the Trail of Genghis Khan Visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum in Ejn Horo, a monument of national importance and heritage centre with ceremonies honouring Genghis Khan, dance, drama and other cultural attractions. Discover the Genghis Khan Temple in Xing district, a blend of Han, Mongolian and Tibetan architecture.

Tags: china, shanghai, city, world, river

Two other notable exhibits are a palanquin that was used to carry priests and a chariot that was used to carry the idols of deities during festivals. Diwan-I-Khas of City Palace One can enter Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of private audience), through the big brass gateway of Mubarak Mahal. The names are as follows: Sukh-Niwas, Ranga-Mandir, Pitam-Niwas, Chabi-Niwas, Shri-Niwas and Mukut-Mandir or Mukut Mahal. The Maharani's Palace has been converted to weapons museum. The four gates are the Peacock Gate, Lotus Gate, Green Gate and the Rose Gate, representing autumn, summer, spring and winter seasons respectively. Ananda Mandir (mandir means temple in Hindi) is located near the Pitam Niwas courtyard. To serve the purpose of carrying water for the king, the sterling silver vessels are made, which are now recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the World's largest silver vessels. City Palace is known for its architectural excellence. As they made those vessels for carrying Ganga water, they are named Gangajelies. Diwan-I-Aam of City Palace Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of public audience) is now an art gallery. The things of interest in Diwan-I-Khas are two gigantic sterling silver vessels, measuring 5.2 feets in height and 340 Kgs in weight, with a capacity of 4000 litres. One of the Artistic Wonders of India Mar 6, 2010 Prakash Thulasimani City Palace is located at the heart of the city of Jaipur, India. One of those baggis is of great significance, because it was the one presented by Prince of Wales to Maharaja in 1876. It is basically a museum with a variety of textiles on display. Ground floor houses a museum, where one can see beautiful things that belong to the royal families. The two main entrances for the City Palace are Jaleb Chowk and Tripolia Gate. There is an interesting fact about those sterling silver vessels. The highly pious Hindu (one who belongs to the religion of Hinduism is called a Hindu) king, Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II wanted to take the sacred water of the river Ganges on his travel to England in 1901. The building has seven storeys and each floor bears a specific name. The most reputed textiles that are on display include sanganeri block prints, folk-embroidery shawls, banaras silk sarees, Kashmiri pashminas, the clothes of Sawai Madhosingh I and other royal costumes. Chandra Mahal is also called as Chandra Niwas. It is the largest city square in the world, and is surrounded by such wonders as the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, and several museums. Tours regularly stop there, and wander the expansive open space.The copies of Bhagawad Gita which are on display are extremely small. The ceiling looks very attractive. One among them is the scissor-action dagger, which when hit on a victim will cut his body part by part. They call those four small gates as Ridhi Sidhi Pol. The square was designed to reflect the pride of China. It is one of the major tourist attractions of India. The other exhibits include Rajasthani, Mughal and Persian miniature paintings with themes from Ramayana, rugs with embroidery works, Kashmir shawls, elephant saddles and carpets. There are spectacular paintings, mirror works and floral decorations on the wall. There is a cute little canon that could be mounted on a camel's back. The ceiling contains frescoes that are indeed awesome and well-preserved, using jewel dust of semiprecious stones. Pitam Niwas Chowk and Bhaggi Khana of the City Palace Pitam Niwas Chowk is the inner courtyard of City Palace with four gates featuring the four seasons. It is known as the Victoria Baggi. The architecture of City Palace is a blend of Mughal, Rajput and European architectural styles. The flooring is of mirror-polished marble. The arms and weapons of the Rajputs are on display. Bhaggi Khana is another museum that has a great collection of carriages, palanquins, European cabs adopted as baggis to Indian environment. It is said that they melted 14000 silver coins without soldering to make those vessels. There are green gardens around Chandra Mahal and a small lake is there in the foreground. The Maharani's Palace in the City Palace Campus Maharani is a Hindi word, meaning Queen. According to him, it is a religious sin to drink foreign water. Valuable, antique and original handwritten manuscripts of Hindu scriptures are on display. Another reputed exhibit is the golden throne, where the Maharaja sits during public audience. City Palace is one of the artistic wonders of India. One more entrance to City Palace is the Virendra Pol. The Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal of City Palace One can enter City Palace through the Tripolia Gate, where he can see the Mubarak Mahal (Auspicious Palace). There are several museums and palaces to visit. There is a rich history associated with City Palace. Another decorative weapon is the sword presented by Queen Victoria to Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. The display includes daggers, pistols, swords, cannons, guns, blades etc. Those who plan to visit Rajasthan must visit City Palace for sure. While there are some negative impressions and events attached to it now, Tiananmen Square was meant to be a very peaceful part of Beijing. Maharani Palace means the place where the queens reside. One has to enter Chandra Mahal through a cute peacock gate. Kullu Manali Honeymoon Tour Package Information China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find Delhi To Shimla, Kullu, Manali on a Honeymoon ‘Hotel’ Tour Package Mar 4, 2010 Rahul Dutta Gupta Think of waking up in the cool morning with the sun-warmed air to give you comfort; think of a day in the laps of the mountains high, with the sun marching across the blue with slow steps; think of a night in the isolated peace, with the nearby stream to carry your thoughts away to a faraway place. It will be as great as it usually is in your dreams. To name a few: If you go with Manali Honeymoon package, you can get to visit the Gaiety theatre, Railway Board Building, Ellerslie, Viceroy Building and Christ Church. You will be taken to the seven hills of this city from where you can have a panoramic view of the entire place! It is well known to all by the name Manali. You can get to see many temples and age-old architecture. Moreover, this place is the ideal destination for adventure seekers, and for adrenaline junkies who wish to go out river rafting on the Beas, or mountain trekking or climbing. But Shimla is quite exciting not only because of its marvelous weather, but also for the gamut of sport activities it provides for all strong and brave hearts. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.During the winter, the nature dons anew garb, and the white fur of snow is draped on the grounds to form a splendid view. Vashisht Temple, the Manali Temple, Rothang Pass, Hot water springs, Rahala waterfalls, Solang valley are few of the exciting sites or tourist sot visit. If you wish to go for fishing, angling or even ice skating, your wish will be granted as soon as possible! You start feeling an inner peace that is hard to find anywhere else. Best Manali Tour Operators – Complete Transparency The Manali package tours offer you everything you require. The age of the British Raj called Shimla the summer capital of the country. The package will include a rendezvous to the historical sites which stand as the glorious symbol of the rich cultural heritage of North Himachal Pradesh. Thus it is easier to opt for these holiday package tours. You can go for any of them; either you choose the Shimla Manali tour packages or the Himachal Tour packages, but your overall experiences will the same. it is almost having a genie waft out of its bottle! And with Shimla Manali tour package , your dreams are about to come true! Places to see in Shimla Shimla is well known to the world as the queen of the hill stations in India. The holiday packages of Manali from IndiaTourTrip.com provides customer support day in and day out, plus they take the payments in 3 installments,. With them, you can see places like the State Museum, Kamna Devi Mandir, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Combermere Bridge, the mall, Scandal Point and the Sankat Mochan Temple. Rendezvous with Nature in Manali About 275 km away from Shimla there lays another land of Paradise. Think of Shimla and Manali, when you feel like spending your holidays with that classic touch of sensuousness that we all miss in our everyday lives. Heli skiing, paragliding, skiing, golfing and trekking are few of the unending options in the list. At the times when you feel like almost melting away under the Indian summer sun, these ideal hill stations offer the best relief that you could have ever imagined! So go ahead, make your choice and have a great vacation that is hard to forget! China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Skating, fishing and angling become quite popular during this season, and with the Shimla Manali tour package , you can sure enjoy them all! The Shimla Manali package will ensure that tourists can get to see all the important places that Shimla has to offer. The place offers some great scenic views which put your mind and soul to rest. Transparency is their key word, since you have an access to their institutes and their functioning at all times. Jakhoo Hill, Observatory Hill, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, Elysium hill, Inveram hill and Botany Hill are truly remarkable places that you will never forget in your entire life! But the Manali Honeymoon Package has more to offer. Bejing china vacations China Packages Great Wall of China

Tags: palace, city, manali, package, shimla

One of those baggis is of great significance, because it was the one presented by Prince of Wales to Maharaja in 1876. One more entrance to City Palace is the Virendra Pol. The Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal of City Palace One can enter City Palace through the Tripolia Gate, where he can see the Mubarak Mahal (Auspicious Palace). The ceiling contains frescoes that are indeed awesome and well-preserved, using jewel dust of semiprecious stones. Pitam Niwas Chowk and Bhaggi Khana of the City Palace Pitam Niwas Chowk is the inner courtyard of City Palace with four gates featuring the four seasons. The two main entrances for the City Palace are Jaleb Chowk and Tripolia Gate. Another decorative weapon is the sword presented by Queen Victoria to Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. It is one of the major tourist attractions of India. The architecture of City Palace is a blend of Mughal, Rajput and European architectural styles. From state-sponsored open spaces, to ancient Imperial homes and even religious and spiritual sites, there is something for everyone who visits China with the aim of finding relaxation.The names are as follows: Sukh-Niwas, Ranga-Mandir, Pitam-Niwas, Chabi-Niwas, Shri-Niwas and Mukut-Mandir or Mukut Mahal. The things of interest in Diwan-I-Khas are two gigantic sterling silver vessels, measuring 5.2 feets in height and 340 Kgs in weight, with a capacity of 4000 litres. There is a cute little canon that could be mounted on a camel's back. It is basically a museum with a variety of textiles on display. Another reputed exhibit is the golden throne, where the Maharaja sits during public audience. City Palace is one of the artistic wonders of India. Two other notable exhibits are a palanquin that was used to carry priests and a chariot that was used to carry the idols of deities during festivals. Diwan-I-Khas of City Palace One can enter Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of private audience), through the big brass gateway of Mubarak Mahal. Those who plan to visit Rajasthan must visit City Palace for sure. If you are looking for your next vacation destination, you might want to consider going to China for vacation. The ceiling looks very attractive. The flooring is of mirror-polished marble. It is known as the Victoria Baggi. Ground floor houses a museum, where one can see beautiful things that belong to the royal families. There is a rich history associated with City Palace. The display includes daggers, pistols, swords, cannons, guns, blades etc. There are green gardens around Chandra Mahal and a small lake is there in the foreground. The Maharani's Palace in the City Palace Campus Maharani is a Hindi word, meaning Queen. There are several museums and palaces to visit. While it might not be the location that naturally comes to mind when you think about getting away for some relaxation, there are some things in China that will make your trip a truly special and relaxing one. They call those four small gates as Ridhi Sidhi Pol. The four gates are the Peacock Gate, Lotus Gate, Green Gate and the Rose Gate, representing autumn, summer, spring and winter seasons respectively. The most reputed textiles that are on display include sanganeri block prints, folk-embroidery shawls, banaras silk sarees, Kashmiri pashminas, the clothes of Sawai Madhosingh I and other royal costumes. Chandra Mahal is also called as Chandra Niwas. The arms and weapons of the Rajputs are on display. Bhaggi Khana is another museum that has a great collection of carriages, palanquins, European cabs adopted as baggis to Indian environment. The building has seven storeys and each floor bears a specific name. It is said that they melted 14000 silver coins without soldering to make those vessels. City Palace is known for its architectural excellence. Ananda Mandir (mandir means temple in Hindi) is located near the Pitam Niwas courtyard. To serve the purpose of carrying water for the king, the sterling silver vessels are made, which are now recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the World's largest silver vessels. The copies of Bhagawad Gita which are on display are extremely small. The Maharani's Palace has been converted to weapons museum. There are spectacular paintings, mirror works and floral decorations on the wall. There is an interesting fact about those sterling silver vessels. The highly pious Hindu (one who belongs to the religion of Hinduism is called a Hindu) king, Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II wanted to take the sacred water of the river Ganges on his travel to England in 1901. Valuable, antique and original handwritten manuscripts of Hindu scriptures are on display. One of the Artistic Wonders of India Mar 6, 2010 Prakash Thulasimani City Palace is located at the heart of the city of Jaipur, India. The other exhibits include Rajasthani, Mughal and Persian miniature paintings with themes from Ramayana, rugs with embroidery works, Kashmir shawls, elephant saddles and carpets. One among them is the scissor-action dagger, which when hit on a victim will cut his body part by part. Maharani Palace means the place where the queens reside. According to him, it is a religious sin to drink foreign water. One has to enter Chandra Mahal through a cute peacock gate. As they made those vessels for carrying Ganga water, they are named Gangajelies. Diwan-I-Aam of City Palace Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of public audience) is now an art gallery. Kullu Manali Honeymoon Tour Package Information Chinas Vacation Hot Spots Jakhoo Hill, Observatory Hill, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, Elysium hill, Inveram hill and Botany Hill are truly remarkable places that you will never forget in your entire life! But the Manali Honeymoon Package has more to offer. It is well known to all by the name Manali. And while China is ripe with temples, shrines and holy buildings for a number of faiths and religions, there are three specific sites that every visitor to China should take the time to visit, no matter their faith or beliefs � the White Cloud Temple, The Temple of Heaven, and the White Horse Temple. You can get to see many temples and age-old architecture. Transparency is their key word, since you have an access to their institutes and their functioning at all times. The holiday packages of Manali from IndiaTourTrip.com provides customer support day in and day out, plus they take the payments in 3 installments,. It will be as great as it usually is in your dreams. The place offers some great scenic views which put your mind and soul to rest. With them, you can see places like the State Museum, Kamna Devi Mandir, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Combermere Bridge, the mall, Scandal Point and the Sankat Mochan Temple. Rendezvous with Nature in Manali About 275 km away from Shimla there lays another land of Paradise. it is almost having a genie waft out of its bottle! Heli skiing, paragliding, skiing, golfing and trekking are few of the unending options in the list. During the winter, the nature dons anew garb, and the white fur of snow is draped on the grounds to form a splendid view. But Shimla is quite exciting not only because of its marvelous weather, but also for the gamut of sport activities it provides for all strong and brave hearts. Even those who are not Taoist or Buddhist will be fascinated by these buildings and their surrounding grounds.You start feeling an inner peace that is hard to find anywhere else. Best Manali Tour Operators – Complete Transparency The Manali package tours offer you everything you require. Skating, fishing and angling become quite popular during this season, and with the Shimla Manali tour package , you can sure enjoy them all! The Shimla Manali package will ensure that tourists can get to see all the important places that Shimla has to offer. At the times when you feel like almost melting away under the Indian summer sun, these ideal hill stations offer the best relief that you could have ever imagined! Delhi To Shimla, Kullu, Manali on a Honeymoon ‘Hotel’ Tour Package Mar 4, 2010 Rahul Dutta Gupta Think of waking up in the cool morning with the sun-warmed air to give you comfort; think of a day in the laps of the mountains high, with the sun marching across the blue with slow steps; think of a night in the isolated peace, with the nearby stream to carry your thoughts away to a faraway place. The package will include a rendezvous to the historical sites which stand as the glorious symbol of the rich cultural heritage of North Himachal Pradesh. To name a few: If you go with Manali Honeymoon package, you can get to visit the Gaiety theatre, Railway Board Building, Ellerslie, Viceroy Building and Christ Church. You will be taken to the seven hills of this city from where you can have a panoramic view of the entire place! Vashisht Temple, the Manali Temple, Rothang Pass, Hot water springs, Rahala waterfalls, Solang valley are few of the exciting sites or tourist sot visit. If you wish to go for fishing, angling or even ice skating, your wish will be granted as soon as possible! Think of Shimla and Manali, when you feel like spending your holidays with that classic touch of sensuousness that we all miss in our everyday lives. So go ahead, make your choice and have a great vacation that is hard to forget! While you are on vacation to China, you may want to find out more about the religions that have helped to shape China into the country it is today. And with Shimla Manali tour package , your dreams are about to come true! Places to see in Shimla Shimla is well known to the world as the queen of the hill stations in India. The age of the British Raj called Shimla the summer capital of the country. Thus it is easier to opt for these holiday package tours. You can go for any of them; either you choose the Shimla Manali tour packages or the Himachal Tour packages, but your overall experiences will the same. Moreover, this place is the ideal destination for adventure seekers, and for adrenaline junkies who wish to go out river rafting on the Beas, or mountain trekking or climbing. Bejing China Packages china vacations Great Wall of China

Tags: palace, city, manali, package, china

From its ancient past, which is on display in its many temples and other older buildings, to its more modern trappings, like the beautiful hotels and bustling business districts, Beijing offers sights and sounds that you can find nowhere else in China, let alone the world. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." If you are headed to China for your next vacation, you might be wondering what Chinas vacation hot spots are. Many people quickly forget who has hosted the previous edition of the Games, but the infrastructure build for those sporting events lasts much longer. Take your time to see as much of this city as you can. Long a British protectorate, it reverted to Chinese rule many years ago. The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. The surprise might be the remnants of the recent Olympic Games in Beijing. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. The culture, architecture and people of Beijing make it an amazing center that you will need a long time to properly explore. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? The sun is low and it's been a hard day. If you love to shop, you must go to the high end districts in Hong Kong, and check out the massive stores. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. As a result, Hong Kong is a thriving center of commerce and shipping. Number one has got to be a tie among some of the great historical buildings, statues and of course, walls. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. But despite having Chinese rulers again, Hong Kong enjoys certain protections that the rest of China does not. All of the venues are still intact in Beijing, and many of them have guided tours. Here are three places in China that you really must see, and one place that no one thinks of, but really ought to get out to! The other hot spot in China � and it is not fair to say it ranks below either of the other two listed choices here � could be the city of Beijing. Long the capital city of China, it is amazing how much of the country is represented here in the big city. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. "People come over as families and farm together. These masterpieces and marvels are the sorts of things that you simply cannot miss out on when you visit China. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. The Great Wall of China, the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, and the Forbidden City all stand head and shoulders above any other hot spot in China. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. You can wander the buildings, see the sights, and capture a little bit of the Olympic spirit, one of Chinas vacation hot spots that few people will remember to look for.Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. Number two might be the city of Hong Kong. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand.

Tags: chinese, tourist, china, million, year

Ground floor houses a museum, where one can see beautiful things that belong to the royal families. The arms and weapons of the Rajputs are on display. Bhaggi Khana is another museum that has a great collection of carriages, palanquins, European cabs adopted as baggis to Indian environment. The most reputed textiles that are on display include sanganeri block prints, folk-embroidery shawls, banaras silk sarees, Kashmiri pashminas, the clothes of Sawai Madhosingh I and other royal costumes. Chandra Mahal is also called as Chandra Niwas. Ananda Mandir (mandir means temple in Hindi) is located near the Pitam Niwas courtyard. China offers so much more in a vacation.There is a rich history associated with City Palace. City Palace is known for its architectural excellence. One of those baggis is of great significance, because it was the one presented by Prince of Wales to Maharaja in 1876. The four gates are the Peacock Gate, Lotus Gate, Green Gate and the Rose Gate, representing autumn, summer, spring and winter seasons respectively. Valuable, antique and original handwritten manuscripts of Hindu scriptures are on display. There are spectacular paintings, mirror works and floral decorations on the wall. According to him, it is a religious sin to drink foreign water. There are several museums and palaces to visit. The ceiling looks very attractive. There are green gardens around Chandra Mahal and a small lake is there in the foreground. The Maharani's Palace in the City Palace Campus Maharani is a Hindi word, meaning Queen. The building has seven storeys and each floor bears a specific name. Another reputed exhibit is the golden throne, where the Maharaja sits during public audience. City Palace is one of the artistic wonders of India. The names are as follows: Sukh-Niwas, Ranga-Mandir, Pitam-Niwas, Chabi-Niwas, Shri-Niwas and Mukut-Mandir or Mukut Mahal. The flooring is of mirror-polished marble. One of the Artistic Wonders of India Mar 6, 2010 Prakash Thulasimani City Palace is located at the heart of the city of Jaipur, India. The Maharani's Palace has been converted to weapons museum. It is basically a museum with a variety of textiles on display. The architecture of City Palace is a blend of Mughal, Rajput and European architectural styles. Either that, or go gamble your money away over cheap margaritas and flashy decor with the other party animals. There is an interesting fact about those sterling silver vessels. The highly pious Hindu (one who belongs to the religion of Hinduism is called a Hindu) king, Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II wanted to take the sacred water of the river Ganges on his travel to England in 1901. Another decorative weapon is the sword presented by Queen Victoria to Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. One more entrance to City Palace is the Virendra Pol. The Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal of City Palace One can enter City Palace through the Tripolia Gate, where he can see the Mubarak Mahal (Auspicious Palace). It is one of the major tourist attractions of India. As they made those vessels for carrying Ganga water, they are named Gangajelies. Diwan-I-Aam of City Palace Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of public audience) is now an art gallery. If you are sick of the phoniness of the neon and craziness of Vegas, China can offer you serenity, wonder, and an amazing adventure. The display includes daggers, pistols, swords, cannons, guns, blades etc. The two main entrances for the City Palace are Jaleb Chowk and Tripolia Gate. Maharani Palace means the place where the queens reside. To serve the purpose of carrying water for the king, the sterling silver vessels are made, which are now recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the World's largest silver vessels. Two other notable exhibits are a palanquin that was used to carry priests and a chariot that was used to carry the idols of deities during festivals. Diwan-I-Khas of City Palace One can enter Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of private audience), through the big brass gateway of Mubarak Mahal. See the historical sites, lose yourself in the local culture, fill up on the arts, and stay at the most beautiful hotels you could possibly imagine. It is said that they melted 14000 silver coins without soldering to make those vessels. There is a cute little canon that could be mounted on a camel's back. The copies of Bhagawad Gita which are on display are extremely small. Those who plan to visit Rajasthan must visit City Palace for sure. When you compare a junket to Las Vegas to vacations to China, there is really no comparison. One has to enter Chandra Mahal through a cute peacock gate. The things of interest in Diwan-I-Khas are two gigantic sterling silver vessels, measuring 5.2 feets in height and 340 Kgs in weight, with a capacity of 4000 litres. The ceiling contains frescoes that are indeed awesome and well-preserved, using jewel dust of semiprecious stones. Pitam Niwas Chowk and Bhaggi Khana of the City Palace Pitam Niwas Chowk is the inner courtyard of City Palace with four gates featuring the four seasons. They call those four small gates as Ridhi Sidhi Pol. The other exhibits include Rajasthani, Mughal and Persian miniature paintings with themes from Ramayana, rugs with embroidery works, Kashmir shawls, elephant saddles and carpets. Really, there is no comparison between the two. It is known as the Victoria Baggi. One among them is the scissor-action dagger, which when hit on a victim will cut his body part by part. Kullu Manali Honeymoon Tour Package Information Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement It is well known to all by the name Manali. Thus it is easier to opt for these holiday package tours. You can go for any of them; either you choose the Shimla Manali tour packages or the Himachal Tour packages, but your overall experiences will the same. And with Shimla Manali tour package , your dreams are about to come true! Places to see in Shimla Shimla is well known to the world as the queen of the hill stations in India. Jakhoo Hill, Observatory Hill, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, Elysium hill, Inveram hill and Botany Hill are truly remarkable places that you will never forget in your entire life! But the Manali Honeymoon Package has more to offer. Transparency is their key word, since you have an access to their institutes and their functioning at all times. You can get to see many temples and age-old architecture. It will be as great as it usually is in your dreams. The holiday packages of Manali from IndiaTourTrip.com provides customer support day in and day out, plus they take the payments in 3 installments,. To name a few: If you go with Manali Honeymoon package, you can get to visit the Gaiety theatre, Railway Board Building, Ellerslie, Viceroy Building and Christ Church. You will be taken to the seven hills of this city from where you can have a panoramic view of the entire place! Heli skiing, paragliding, skiing, golfing and trekking are few of the unending options in the list. During the winter, the nature dons anew garb, and the white fur of snow is draped on the grounds to form a splendid view. The place offers some great scenic views which put your mind and soul to rest. With them, you can see places like the State Museum, Kamna Devi Mandir, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Combermere Bridge, the mall, Scandal Point and the Sankat Mochan Temple. Rendezvous with Nature in Manali About 275 km away from Shimla there lays another land of Paradise. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. The package will include a rendezvous to the historical sites which stand as the glorious symbol of the rich cultural heritage of North Himachal Pradesh. it is almost having a genie waft out of its bottle! So go ahead, make your choice and have a great vacation that is hard to forget! If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. Compare the different prices you find from these options, and you are sure to find a deal that will enable you to visit the wonderful sights of China on your next vacation.But Shimla is quite exciting not only because of its marvelous weather, but also for the gamut of sport activities it provides for all strong and brave hearts. If you wish to go for fishing, angling or even ice skating, your wish will be granted as soon as possible! The age of the British Raj called Shimla the summer capital of the country. Skating, fishing and angling become quite popular during this season, and with the Shimla Manali tour package , you can sure enjoy them all! The Shimla Manali package will ensure that tourists can get to see all the important places that Shimla has to offer. Other options include seeking out a local travel agent who specializes in overseas travel, or contacting the airlines directly to see if they have a partnership with a tour company in China. Think of Shimla and Manali, when you feel like spending your holidays with that classic touch of sensuousness that we all miss in our everyday lives. At the times when you feel like almost melting away under the Indian summer sun, these ideal hill stations offer the best relief that you could have ever imagined! Moreover, this place is the ideal destination for adventure seekers, and for adrenaline junkies who wish to go out river rafting on the Beas, or mountain trekking or climbing. Vashisht Temple, the Manali Temple, Rothang Pass, Hot water springs, Rahala waterfalls, Solang valley are few of the exciting sites or tourist sot visit. You start feeling an inner peace that is hard to find anywhere else. Best Manali Tour Operators – Complete Transparency The Manali package tours offer you everything you require. A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. Delhi To Shimla, Kullu, Manali on a Honeymoon ‘Hotel’ Tour Package Mar 4, 2010 Rahul Dutta Gupta Think of waking up in the cool morning with the sun-warmed air to give you comfort; think of a day in the laps of the mountains high, with the sun marching across the blue with slow steps; think of a night in the isolated peace, with the nearby stream to carry your thoughts away to a faraway place.

Tags: palace, city, package, manali, shimla

Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. And you can be sure of the quality. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. Contact: Ms. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. Ltd. 'Organic Farm'. If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. Visiting the Forbidden City On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights Today, it is a major tourist attraction in Beijing, drawing people freely through its gates to admire the architecture, the parks and green spaces, and the narrow passages between them. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. The Forbidden City complex in Beijing is another must on any sight-seer�s list of amazing Chinese places. There are other wonderful sights to see in China, but these three are ones that simply cannot be missed when you visit the country.This building complex was once the Imperial Palace, and now houses the Palace Museum. Chinese vacation goers are often overwhelmed by this site, and have been known to spend hours, wandering the length and breadth of it. It was known as the Forbidden City, because during its heyday, permission to enter or leave its walls had to be granted by the Emperor himself.

Tags: organic, supermarket, brand, china, store

The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. It is not as simple as booking a travel deal for a more common Western destination � but your hard work will pay off once you land in China, and begin your dream vacation.Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. "People come over as families and farm together. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Vacationing In China Offers Everything Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. The CBL is now partnered with the more established Nippon Professional Baseball league of Japan, allowing for transfers between the two countries to better grow the sport. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. For any baseball fan, this is a great chance to see players that you would normally never get a chance to watch, and see a ball park that most people will only ever hear about.A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. While in China, you will see many wonderful sights, but there are three that will rival anything you can see anywhere else in the sporting world: Baseball. The Beijing Tigers actually predate the league by many years, and have been the most successful team in the CBL, winning the championships three times. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. Bejing China Packages china vacations Great Wall of China

Tags: china, chinese, farm, tourist, happy

If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. Contact: Ms. Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. While this might sound like an odd choice next to the theme parks and all-inclusive resorts as an option for an ideal family getaway, it could be the best vacation your family has ever gone on. For the family as a whole, there is no end to the excitement that can be found in China, from food to events, and from sights to actions. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. China really could be the best destination for you and your family.Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) When you are sitting down to debate your next getaway with the family, toss in the option of a China family vacation. For the kids, there is sports and culture all over the place. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. 'Organic Farm'. Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. And you can be sure of the quality. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. For the parents, amazing architecture and historical sites. Ltd. Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. Visiting the Forbidden City Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement The first piece was built around 200 BC to protect a relatively small area. At its height, the wall stood nearly four thousand miles long. Ever since that time, and until the 1600s, the Chinese have added, maintained, lengthened and fortified the walls that guard their lands. While its width means that no, it is not the only man-made structure that would be visible from the moon, the sheer size and skill of the wall is still something that draws tourists from around the world, and even features a marathon along part of the wall itself. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. The Great Wall of China should really be known as the Great Walls of China. China Packages china vacations Yangtze River Cruises Bejing

Tags: organic, china, brand, supermarket, store

Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. Some fighting styles are based on the movements of predator animals, while some are meant to be used more purely as self defence, and others use the ancient movements of historical warrior training. The different styles are usually broken up into families or sects, depending on their influence. What is usually seen as a fun little event in Western culture is a much bigger deal in China. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." Martial arts. This holiday is a chance for Chinese citizens to enjoy the dragon boat races and other cultural activities, although the races are the focus of the day.The popular martial art of Kung Fu originated in China, although it is sometimes referred to in China by the original Mandarin term, wushu. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "People come over as families and farm together. Dragon boat racing. There are many different styles of combat training that fall into this category, and public displays and competitions are common in China � not to mention, incredibly popular. The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. The festival begins on the �double fifth�, or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month on the Chinese calendar. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. The annual Duanwu Festival for dragon boat racing is a regular and popular holiday in China. This means that, on the Western calendar, the date can fluctuate wildly, being as early as May and as late as June. The races are so popular, that the influence has bled over into other Asian cultures and countries. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. Other options include seeking out a local travel agent who specializes in overseas travel, or contacting the airlines directly to see if they have a partnership with a tour company in China. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. Compare the different prices you find from these options, and you are sure to find a deal that will enable you to visit the wonderful sights of China on your next vacation.Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. Great Wall of China china vacations Bejing China Packages

Tags: chinese, farm, china, happy, day

You may be able to buy pre-packaged items in a gift box but you can do it yourself with some red paper and gold trimmings. Alcohol If your hosts drink alcohol, find out what they like. So while you won't go wrong, food items are probably better. It's a worldwide routine. Plenty of Western holidays (Christmas, Valentine's Day) are exported, why not have fun with Chinese New Year wherever you are. It's like Thanksgiving in the US or Christmas in Europe. Chinese people like to decorate with pussy willows, flowering plum and peach branches and kumquat bushes during the season. You can even bake something yourself or buy something nice to share or pass around. So think food and drink and the color red. What to bring your hosts: Like I said – food and drink. Flowers Flowers aren't a traditional gift for hosts in China but abroad they are. They'll appreciate a nice bottle of whatever it is. Fancy imported exotic fruit will look more impressive, but I've seen folks taking a large bunch of bananas or a box of oranges to friends' houses as well. Yet, a fruit basket looks beautiful so I still go for this one. You travel long distances to overeat, over-drink, stay up too late, argue with your parents, etc. And why not? It doesn't have to be fancy, but of course, a little extra effort is always nice and appreciated. If you are looking for something more spiritual, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in the Da Ci�en Temple offers a beautiful example of the Buddhist influence on Chinese culture in the 7th century. But one local told me that if she's going to a good friend's she doesn't bother with the basket as she (and the friend) will suspect the fruit at the bottom is no good. Even if you’re hosts aren’t Chinese, this will be a nice gesture. OK, I'm overstating it but if you're not in China and you do this, your Chinese hosts will be blown away that you know about this tradition. Introduction: So you're invited over to someone's home to celebrate Chinese New Year . But if you want to go with flowers, that's fine. You might seek out something traditional. If it's the Year of the Tiger , maybe you could find some tiger lilies to bring. If kids, then Hong Bao If your hosts are Chinese and if they have children, then you absolutely must bring Hong Bao (literally "red envelopes"). Chinese families will prepare their new year meal for many days. If you're in China, then it is really a traditional gesture that will go along way with your hosts. If you can't find traditional Chinese red envelopes, then go to a stationary shop and buy small red envelopes and a gold paint pen to write a greeting on it. Children receive Hong Bao until they are married so even the college student home on holiday is considered a child when it comes to the red envelopes! If your hosts are Chinese, then they might appreciate something that lasts for several days as they'll have a lot of visitors over the next weeks and they'll be able to share the nice treats with visitors. Fruit The fruit basket is a ubiquitous symbol of Chinese New Year around the streets of Shanghai at least. The main idea about Chinese New Year in Mainland China is about getting together with family. The amount should be in bills (not coins) and make sure it's an even amount and multiples of eight are considered lucky. The main focus is on food. It is nicer to present things in a gift box. Stuff it with some money – it doesn't have to be a lot (but not too little either). Either on the mainland, or in Berlin, Chinese and non-Chinese will be celebrating the Lunar New Year. Tea Chinese people love tea. Loose tea is better than bagged tea for gifts (and please, no Lipton Yellow tea bags). Sweets Who doesn't appreciate sweets? It's a great excuse for a party. What is traditional to bring? There don't seem to be any fixed traditional items that you should or would be expected to bring (unless there are kids involved, see "Hong Bao" below). You can buy the components yourself and put them together with a red ribbon. There is a variety of statuaries and pieces of art on display here, and the natural serenity makes this a must see for peace and relaxation seekers who are in China for vacation.Your gesture will really be appreciated. Shanghai Temples China Vacations Offer Three �Must See� Places It is undergoing constant renovation but its Song Dynasty architecture is beautiful and the temple is popular with tourists and practicing Buddhists alike. The other Imperial holdover that will aid in your search for relaxing but stimulating sites is the Summer Palace. This is an enormous site that can easily take up the better part of a day, should you wish to take your time and soak in the ambiance and quiet beauty.Impressive from the outside with imposing walls, it is actually one of the less interesting inside - but still worth a look. It has a long history, originally built in the 3rd century, it was moved to its present site in the Song Dynasty , destroyed in 1851, rebuilt, turned into a plastics factory during the Cultural Revolution and renovated back into a temple in 1983. This former summer home features beautifully manicured gardens and green spaces, surrounding natural bodies of water. Description & Comments: Sitting on one of the busiest roads in Shanghai, Jing'An temple is one of the few you'll probably see before you know what it is. China Packages china vacations Bejing Yangtze River Cruises

Tags: chinese, host, china, year, red

"You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. If you are sick of the phoniness of the neon and craziness of Vegas, China can offer you serenity, wonder, and an amazing adventure. Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. Either that, or go gamble your money away over cheap margaritas and flashy decor with the other party animals. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. Really, there is no comparison between the two. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "People come over as families and farm together. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? China offers so much more in a vacation.The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." When you compare a junket to Las Vegas to vacations to China, there is really no comparison. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. See the historical sites, lose yourself in the local culture, fill up on the arts, and stay at the most beautiful hotels you could possibly imagine. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Vacations to China Better Than Vegas Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. If you are headed to China for your next vacation, you might be wondering what Chinas vacation hot spots are. Many people quickly forget who has hosted the previous edition of the Games, but the infrastructure build for those sporting events lasts much longer. You can wander the buildings, see the sights, and capture a little bit of the Olympic spirit, one of Chinas vacation hot spots that few people will remember to look for.All of the venues are still intact in Beijing, and many of them have guided tours. If you love to shop, you must go to the high end districts in Hong Kong, and check out the massive stores. Long a British protectorate, it reverted to Chinese rule many years ago. As a result, Hong Kong is a thriving center of commerce and shipping. Number two might be the city of Hong Kong. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. The surprise might be the remnants of the recent Olympic Games in Beijing. From its ancient past, which is on display in its many temples and other older buildings, to its more modern trappings, like the beautiful hotels and bustling business districts, Beijing offers sights and sounds that you can find nowhere else in China, let alone the world. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. Number one has got to be a tie among some of the great historical buildings, statues and of course, walls. Take your time to see as much of this city as you can. The Great Wall of China, the Xi�an Terracotta Warriors, and the Forbidden City all stand head and shoulders above any other hot spot in China. Here are three places in China that you really must see, and one place that no one thinks of, but really ought to get out to! A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. The other hot spot in China � and it is not fair to say it ranks below either of the other two listed choices here � could be the city of Beijing. Long the capital city of China, it is amazing how much of the country is represented here in the big city. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. These masterpieces and marvels are the sorts of things that you simply cannot miss out on when you visit China. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. But despite having Chinese rulers again, Hong Kong enjoys certain protections that the rest of China does not. The culture, architecture and people of Beijing make it an amazing center that you will need a long time to properly explore. china vacations Bejing China Packages Yangtze River Cruises

Tags: china, chinese, tourist, farm, city

Introduction Depending on where you will be traveling, brands and goods that you may be used to back home are of varying availability. Where there is a significant population of expatriates such as Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou, Western brands and familiar items are easily found in upscale supermarkets and department stores. However, if you will be traveling in the countryside, then it's best to make sure you've stocked up on the necessities to bring along with you. What You Can Buy in Local Supermarkets (relevant to larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou): Diapers : You can find the brands you know, but don't expect the diapers to be exactly the same. Huggies and Pampers are widely available, as are less expensive Chinese brands. You'll need to know your child's weight in kilograms (# of pounds / 2.2 = KG). Wet wipes : There is usually a large selection of wet and diaper wipes in convenience stores and supermarkets. I tend to buy the brands I recognize, e.g. Johnson & Johnson, as my attempts at buying local brands tend to result in heavily scented wipes. Watsons, a Hong Kong drug store chain, stocks an own-brand alcohol-free type as well as other diaper-changing needs. Tissues : Small packs of tissues are available in most stores and are very easy to find. Plastic bags : Bags of all shapes and sizes are readily available and Ziplock bags are being increasingly stocked in local shops. Heinz baby food : This brand has a large market in China but you may find the menus a little odd. If your baby isn't a picky eater, it shouldn't be a problem. Note: the title will be in English but the ingredients will be in Chinese. Heinz is not organic and there is probably sugar added. See below for more information on organic food. Evian water : Evian is great for sippy cups and good water to mix with formula. And you can be sure of the quality. Evian is certainly expensive, up to $1 for a small bottle, but it's a safe bet for your baby or toddler. 100% juice : A brand called Great Lakes makes 100% apple, orange and tomato juice that is widely available in small bottles and sometimes juice boxes. Infant formula : Despite the watchdog efforts by the Chinese government in the aftermath of the September 2008 milk scandal , I strongly advise you to bring enough formula for your child from home. If you've run out, then go to upscale supermarkets like Carrefour or an import food store (ask your concierge). There are many joint-venture companies producing formula in China. Import grocery stores may also carry fully imported formula. Organic vegetables & fruits : While organic food consumption is just now gaining a foothold in China, it is starting to be more widely available on supermarket shelves especially in Beijing and Shanghai . Upscale markets such as Parkson and Carrefour carry a wide range of organic vegetables and some fruits. Here are more contacts about buying organic while in China. Shanghai : The major distributor in Shanghai is Shanghai Organics. Their produce is available in many upmarket supermarkets including Parkson, Freshmart and Carrefour. A good place to find organic drygoods is City Supermarket with multiple locations around Shanghai. They stock a number of organic items from the US and Germany. Their produce is also mostly organic. Beijing : The major distributor of OFDC certified organic food is Beijing Organic Food Co. Ltd. 'Organic Farm'. Contact: Ms. Chen Conghong (General Manager), tel: 010-84085026. Email: bjorganic@263.net . Milk : Again, with the September 2008 milk scandal it will be difficult to trust Chinese milk brands. To be absolutely safe, bring along UHT milk you can buy at home. (For example, Clover produces an organic UHT milk boxed in single-serving drink boxes for the US market.) You can find imported UHT milk at upscale supermarkets and import groceries. There is also locally produced organic milk sold in high-end grocery stores in Beijing and Shanghai but this is not very convenient for travel. What to Bring from Home: Diaper cream : I haven't seen a lot of creams available in for-locals stores. You can find it in Watsons or a supermarket that caters to Westerners. But it will be expensive so it's better to bring it from home. Infant formula : You can find it in local supermarkets as well as upscale stores. If you're a nervous parent, you won't be able to read all the ingredients and the number of choices may be daunting so it may be better for you to bring it from home. Certainly, if your child has any special-needs formula, then you should bring it. Snacks : Finding your child's favorite snacks such as fruit leathers and Cheerios may be difficult and expensive. Bring packaged food snacks along with you. Disinfectant gel : Sometimes you can find it but mostly in expensive for-expat markets. Better pack a few bottles from home. What to Have in Your Diaper Bag (for Daily Excursions): Disinfectant gel Wet wipes Diapers Changing Pad(s) Tissues Water bottle/sippy cup Washcloth (I find a wet washcloth in a ziplock bag is very handy) Chinese Tea ...for all the tea in China...Tea is a wonderful buy in China and you should take your time when buying. Sit, drink and chat with the tea shop workers, decide what tea you like best. Sara Naumann china vacations Bejing Great Wall of China China Packages

Tags: organic, supermarket, brand, china, store

http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "People come over as families and farm together. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said.

Tags: chinese, tourist, farm, china, million

http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471642.htm www.china.org.cn Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. 2010-02-25 10:27:27.0 By Michele Scrimenti Down on the 'happy farm' farm, China, holiday, Shanghai, pie, Guizhou, cuisine, tourism Down on the 'happy farm' Down on the 'happy farm' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Li Yan stoops down over a field of cabbage plants with a small spade in his hand. "You have to dig deep enough that they'll put down solid roots, but not too deep so the sprout can easily break through the earth," he says. The sun is low and it's been a hard day. Li finishes off plant-ing the last of the seeds and gets ready to head home. "This has been a really relaxing day," he says. "I have such a sense of accomplishment." While planting crops for several hours is perfectly normal for China's 800 million farmers, for Li, an accountant in his mid-twenties, it's become something of a hobby, an escape from long hours at a multinational firm in Shanghai. Farm country Agriculture dates back at least nine millennia in the region now known as China. Even today, the importance of farming is obvious in Chinese society. The date of the Spring Festival, still far more widely celebrated than holidays like National Day and International Workers' Day, changes in accordance with the lunar calendar. Many Chinese don't even know when their birthday is according to the Gregorian calendar, despite widespread use for several decades. But it has never been easy to be a farmer here. "Rice farming is the most labor-intensive form of agriculture known to man. It is also the most cognitively demanding form of agriculture," Malcolm Gladwell of the New Yorker magazine wrote in his 2008 book Outliers. Around one-fourth of China's cultivated land is used for growing rice. Planting for fun So with growing crops as difficult as it is, what's making city folk like Li Yan rush off to the nearby farmland every weekend to plant their own vegetables? The answer may have as much to do with a video game as it does with nostalgia for an idyllic existence. In the game "Happy Farm", players run their own farms, plant crops, raise livestock and steal from their neighbors across social networking sites similar to Facebook. The game's creator, Five Minutes, claims there are more than 15 million active users. "Everyone has been excited about this game "Happy Farm" for a while, so we thought we'd open up a real-life version to let kids and adults from the city experience farming first-hand," the owner of a farm said to a local newspaper in Luzhou, Sichuan last month. "People come over as families and farm together. Eating what you've planted yourself is a great experience." "I started out with 'Happy Farm', but then thought it got boring and I was stuck inside all day," Li the accountant says. "It's much better to experience it in person than online." Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/25/content_19471605.htm www.china.org.cn The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. 2010-02-25 10:21:41.0 Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists ,money, abroad,China, tourism, New year,United States,   Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad Chinese tourists spend lots of money abroad 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chinese Lunar New Year is not only a gala for domestic retail sales, but a feast for overseas retailers, too. Some 1,200 Chinese tourists celebrated the lunar New Year in New York between Feb 14 and 20, spending an estimated $6 million in the United States, said Zheng Wenqing, a public relations manager for New York Tourism Board's China office. Japanese retailers also reaped gains from Chinese tourists during the week. A local home appliance retailer, Bic Camera, reported that its store in Akihabara, Tokyo, saw its sales increase by 20 to 30 percent thanks to Chinese tourists, Japan-based Chinese language newspaper Jnocnews reported. The newspaper quoted a salesman as saying that a Chinese tourist pointed to and bought cameras and lenses worth more than 70,000 yuan ($10,500) at one time. Another Chinese tourist bought 20 rice cookers at one shot. In Berlin, half of eight counters selling luxury watches in KaDeWe department store on Feb 15 were receiving Chinese tourists, Xiao Yun, a tourist who just came back from Europe told Beijing Youth Daily. He also saw the counters of top cosmetic brands crowded by Chinese tourists at the Munich airport, and one of them bought five bottles of a toning lotion priced at 2,000 yuan each. Chinese consumers have become the No 1 spender in more and more countries, studies and experts said. The latest report by Global Refund, a company specializing in tax-free shopping for tourists, said Chinese tourists outspent the Russians in France last year. Chinese tourists spent 155 million euros ($220.2 million) in 2009, followed by the Russians who spent 112 million euros and the Japanese who spent 99 million euros, the report said. The Galleries Lafayette in Paris reported that a typical Chinese tourist spent 1,000 euro in two hours last year, topping tourists from other countries. Some 87 percent of the Chinese's average total bill was on fashion items, including shoes and handbags, and 93 percent of their shopping was done in and around the French capital. Purchases made by the Chinese represented 15 percent of total spending by tourists in France in 2009 and their total bill rose 47 percent from 2008, it said. Chinese tourists are also among the top five spenders in countries like Singapore and South Korea, reports said. Insiders said the shopping craze is mainly due to two reasons - a booming economy in China, and a price gap caused by a high tax levied on luxury goods. "People have more spare money to spend now. I traveled to France a decade ago, and I didn't buy any luxury goods simply because I couldn't afford them," said Cui Xiaoping, in his 50s, who traveled around Europe, including France, with his wife in January. But during the January trip, he bought so many things, including designer handbags and clothes, that he needed to buy an extra suitcase to carry them home. "Chinese people these days are more informed about the luxury brands. For me, I buy luxury brands because they offer quality. Buying them in Europe is a lot cheaper than in China due to the competitive exchange rate between euros and renminbi, plus there is no import tax," he said. In addition, Chinese tourists are impulsive shoppers, said Li Meng, deputy general manager of the outbound department with the China International Travel Service head office. "Chinese tourists are different from the Japanese tourists, who would make shopping lists beforehand. Many Chinese tourists bought everything they thought is cheaper than at home," he said. Bejing Great Wall of China china vacations China Packages

Tags: chinese, tourist, china, farm, million