Lunar Calendar & Zodiac China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China homes

The beginning of each lunar month is marked by the New Moon on a Western calendar. The Chinese calendar counts years in cycles of sixty years. The elements are further associated with the animal zodiac signs. 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. But on the morning of the meeting, the rat, in her excitement, forgot to wake up the cat and through various means of trickery (or cleverness, as this rat interprets) got to the gods first and was thus chosen first. 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. Before all this, the rat and the cat were good friends. They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. The second component is the terrestrial branch being one of the twelve animal (zodiac) signs. Astrologers read the planets' positioning to understand what influences would be dominant in a person's life. The elements are also associated with colors: Green (Wood), Red (Fire), Brown (Earth), White (Metal) and Black (Water). Some use the Chinese gods, some use Buddha, but the essence of the story is that a higher being called all animals to a meeting and the first to arrive would be chosen. The equation becomes five multiplied by twelve equaling sixty, or one cycle in the Chinese calendar. There are five universal elements in Chinese philosophy: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. A lunar year is made up of twelve months with twenty-nine and a half days in each month. 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. The first component is the celestial stem being one of the five elements. Each year has a label consisting of two parts. Every two and a half months an additional month is added creating a lunar leap year. 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.The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception. The cat slept in and missed the gathering, and since then, the two have been enemies.Here is an index of the twelve animal signs and their associated characteristics: Year of the Rat Year of the Ox Year of the Tiger Year of the Rabbit Year of the Dragon Year of the Snake Year of the Horse Year of the Sheep Year of the Monkey Year of the Rooster Year of the Dog Year of the Boar Back to the Chinese New Year Article Index If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. The elements were associated with five planets in ancient times, Jupiter=Wood, Mars=Fire, Saturn=Earth, Venus=Metal, Mercury=Water. Every twelve-year sequence, the animal takes on one of the elements, until all five have been used. There are various stories about the origins of the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Year of the Dog China Family Vacation Offers Plenty to Work With The key to enjoying your time in China is seeing as much of the country as possible, but these hot spots should be the top things on your list.Chinas vacation hot spots range from the historical sites like the Great Wall of China, to the ultra-modern tech cities like Hong Kong, and the delicately balanced places in between, like the great city of Beijing. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Honest Faithful Loyal Trust-worthy Worrisome Sharp-tongued Horses, Tigers Dragons Leader Secret agent Teacher Business people Cher, Winston Churchill, Bill Clinton, Dorothea Dix, Benjamin Franklin, George Gershwin, Jane Goodall, Golda Meir, Socrates Year of the Rat Year of the Ox Year of the Tiger Year of the Rabbit Year of the Dragon Year of the Snake Year of the Horse Year of the Sheep Year of the Monkey Year of the Rooster Year of the Dog Year of the Boar When you visit a new country, the first thing many people do is research what the hot spots are, so they know what parts of the country they simply cannot afford to miss out on. 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. China Packages vacation in China Bejing china vacations

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Overseas reporters say Tibet visit 'amazing' Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement

Posted on March 11, 2010 in Travel to china

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. 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. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people. I never thought their income would be this high," Huang said. The reporters were from media groups such as Macao Daily News , Asian Television, CTI Television Incorporation, Associated Press of Pakistan, Janpan's NHK, and APTN. They interviewed local residents and visited temples in Lhasa and Nyingchi regions. "I was mostly impressed by the culture here," said David Wivell from APTN. "I was lucky to have the chance to take pictures of local dancing as a way celebrating the Tibetan New Year," David said. Massod Sattar Khan from the Associated Press of Pakistan said he thought the visit was very meaningful as it was a way to introduce Tibet to the outside world. "I hope we will have more such visits," he said. 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. That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. These tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. One of the great sights that you might be able to view in China includes the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. These grounds tend to attract those looking to get some exercise outdoors, including everything from sparring martial artists to slow but steady joggers. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/05/content_19529833.htm www.china.org.cn A group of 15 overseas reporters from ten media groups left Thursday after six days of visit in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. 2010-03-05 10:48:56.0 Overseas reporters say Tibet visit 'amazing' Overseas reporters,Tibet, visit ,China, tour, trip, Overseas reporters say Tibet visit 'amazing' Overseas reporters say Tibet visit 'amazing' 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> A group of 15 overseas reporters from ten media groups left Thursday after six days of visit in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. The six-days-trip were described as "amazing" by some of the reporters. "I had prepared water, biscuits, chocolates when I started this trip, for I assumed that the trip would be difficult," said Christine Huang from CTI Television Incorporation. "But I was amazed by what I saw in Tibet. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. Do your research before you buy.We even got wireless services," Huang said. Huang said she interviewed some Tibetans who run a hotel and was amazed by their high income. "They could earn 70,000 to 80,000 yuan (10,248 to 11,713 U.S. dollars) a year. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. The region was modern. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. 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. These rickshaw rides are often combined with a traditional tour, to give you a chance to pick up some local flavour. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. Imperial granaries welcome civilians China Family Vacation Offers Plenty to Work With This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. The most applauded piece is the "Peony Pavilion" a Tang Dynasty love drama. The restaurant also has several priceless antiques the owner uses as decorations; for example, the engraved board hanging on the top of the counter dates back to the 1700s. The restaurant promises to provide supreme service and charges equally high prices because it includes the entrance fee to the food bill. Another of the granaries in use today is Minghuang storehouse which is open to the public as a museum. Visitors will also be presented a small bag of grain as souvenir. The museum opens from 9:50 to 5:00 and is free of charge. When you go to China on vacation, there are three cities that you absolutely must visit. Primarily, you should see Beijing – but you will not have much choice in the matter, as you will likely be flying in through this capital city. Nowadays, the many storehouses have scaled down to nine; inside two of them, we can still sense the faded history. One of the granaries, Nanxin storehouse, is said to be ten years older than the Forbidden City; it has been redecorated and welcomes customers as a restaurant. The specialty here is roasted duck, believed to be made from the imperial recipe. However, the endless patrons to this establishment are not actually drawn by the food, but the Kunqu Opera that plays in this restaurant as entertainment. Hong Kong should also be on your list of cities to see, as it is unlike any other city in China. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/05/content_19528868.htm www.china.org.cn Seated regally in Dongcheng district of Beijing about one thousand years ago were seventy-six imperial granaries that controlled the lifeline of the Chinese nation and its people. 2010-03-05 10:30:46.0 Imperial granaries welcome civilians China, Beijing, restaurant, museum,Nanxin storehouse Imperial granaries welcome civilians Imperial granaries welcome civilians 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Seated regally in Dongcheng district of Beijing about one thousand years ago were seventy-six imperial granaries that controlled the lifeline of the Chinese nation and its people. It was built during 1400s in Ming Dynasty. Hong Kong is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. Buried in the cluster of ancient buildings, Minghuang storehouse is nothing in particular judging from its grey brick walls. The walls are 1.3 to 1.5 meters thick and there are skylights on the roof and drain pipes underground to keep the place clear and dry. The museum reenacts the scene of transporting and storing up grains using human sized puppets and antique props such as bamboo baskets and grain scales. The granary is as solid as new, the tour guide at the museum said.

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Top Must-See Attractions in New Shanghai, China China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China travel agent

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. A well-maintained and modern aquarium, the complex features displays and exhibits from around the world. Dragon boat racing. 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. Open to visitors, The Pearl has several classes of entrance tickets providing access to various viewing platforms at different heights in the tower. The races are so popular, that the influence has bled over into other Asian cultures and countries. 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. 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. 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 festival begins on the “double fifth”, or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month on the Chinese calendar. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. What is usually seen as a fun little event in Western culture is a much bigger deal in China. The annual Duanwu Festival for dragon boat racing is a regular and popular holiday in China. From the ground, the buildings are prime examples of modern architecture. The Oriental Pearl Tower is perhaps the most famous skyscraper in Asia. This means that, on the Western calendar, the date can fluctuate wildly, being as early as May and as late as June. The popular martial art of Kung Fu originated in China, although it is sometimes referred to in China by the original Mandarin term, wushu. Displays feature information in English and provide plenty of photo opportunities. 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. One way tickets are available in either direction at ticket booths located at the tunnel entrance. Martial arts. 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. 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. An unintentionally comical English narrative illustrates the various light effects such as “Meteor Shower†as the tram moves passengers across the river. 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. Open to tourists, each of these buildings contain viewing platforms at varying heights. Its unique shape has come to represent modern Asian development. The different styles are usually broken up into families or sects, depending on their influence. 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. Top 10 Things to Do in Inner Mongolia Vacationing In China Offers Everything 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. 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. 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. At its height, the wall stood nearly four thousand miles long. Built under Qing Emperor Kangxi, it is modelled on Tashilhunbu in Tibet and boasts halls, apartments for Living Buddhas and over 2500 rooms. The Great Wall of China should really be known as the Great Walls of China. The first piece was built around 200 BC to protect a relatively small area. 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. Stay in a yurt, watch archery and horse races or join the nomads herding sheep, goats or reindeer in some parts. 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. 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.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. 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.

Tags: china, shanghai, world, river, tunnel

Shanghai World Expo expected to bring in 70 mln visitors: official China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China discount

This “city within a city” is a wonderful place to get lost for an afternoon, soaking the beauty of the buildings and the exhibitions hosted there.31, where the country's high-end technology and deep-rooted cultural heritage will be on full-display. The national pavilion will have a floor space of 7,683 sq. Within its walls are a number of peaceful gardens and yards, hidden in a network of pathways. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/09/content_19565137.htm www.china.org.cn The upcoming Shanghai World Expo is expected to bring in an estimated 70 million visitors, of which more than 5 percent are foreigners, Chen Xianjin, deputy director general of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination told a press briefing in Seoul Monday, local media reported. 2010-03-09 10:35:00.0 Shanghai World Expo expected to bring in 70 mln visitors: official Shanghai World Expo expected to bring in 70 mln visitors: official Shanghai World Expo expected to bring in 70 mln visitors: official Shanghai World Expo expected to bring in 70 mln visitors: official 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The upcoming Shanghai World Expo is expected to bring in an estimated 70 million visitors, of which more than 5 percent are foreigners, Chen Xianjin, deputy director general of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination told a press briefing in Seoul Monday, local media reported. "We expect to draw about 70 million visitors for the Shanghai World Expo, and more than 5 percent of them will be foreigners," Chen said, adding he expected some 500,000 people from South Korea,according to Yonhap News Agency. "I believe the South Korean pavilion will be one of the most popular ones at the fair," Chen added, saying the country's corporate pavilion will leave a deep impression on Chinese visitors. South Korea said it plans to set up two pavilions during the international fair, which is scheduled to run from May 1 to Oct. meters, housing 12 local companies including Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, LG, SK, and POSCO. Going through the Heavenly Gate, the Forbidden City is a truly peaceful and relaxing place. This former Imperial Palace is now home to the Palace Museum. meters, which cost the South Korean government 38.2 billion won ($33.7 million) to build, while the country's corporate pavilion that cost 29.9 billion won ($26.4 million) will be built over 4,012 sq. Beautiful night scene of Lijiang Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement You will never be tired of this living tempo. It's one of the world's culture heritages. You will never be tired of this living tempo. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. All kinds of commodities that full of ethnic customs can be found on the street. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. All kinds of commodities that full of ethnic customs can be found on the street. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. [Photo by Wang Xinling]" width="188"/>   Where should you go in China on vacation? It's one of the world's culture heritages. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. It's one of the world's culture heritages. You will never be tired of this living tempo. You will never be tired of this living tempo. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. It's one of the world's culture heritages. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. [Photo by Wang Xinling]" border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12434464" md5="" relativeid="12434465" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100309/000d87ad3cdd0cfff35c14.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑æä¾›çš„æœ¬åœ°æ–‡ä»¶" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100309/000d87ad3cdd0cfff35c13.jpg" title="Lijiang is the only fairyland on earth which has a history of 800 years. It's one of the world's culture heritages. It's one of the world's culture heritages. Tourists from all over the world walk on the streets everyday. [Photo by Wang Xinling]" width="188"/> http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/09/content_19564760.htm www.china.org.cn Lijiang is the only fairyland on earth which has a history of 800 years.  2010-03-09 10:19:06.0 Beautiful night scene of Lijiang Lijiang, night scnee, China, tour, Yunnan, town, Beautiful night scene of Lijiang Beautiful night scene of Lijiang 1007 7082651 High Definition Photos /enpproperty--> Bejing china vacations China Packages vacation in China

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Captain Hostel China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China rental

Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. 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. 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. 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. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. 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. Do your research before you buy. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. These rickshaw rides are often combined with a traditional tour, to give you a chance to pick up some local flavour. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. One of the great sights that you might be able to view in China includes the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. These tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. These grounds tend to attract those looking to get some exercise outdoors, including everything from sparring martial artists to slow but steady joggers. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. Bund Building Guide Vacations to China Better Than Vegas Today, like Three on the Bund, No. Once the most famous hotel in the east, and one of Shanghai's most famous Art Deco buildings, the Cathay became the Peace Hotel in 1956. The buildings that constitute the essential famous Bund buildings begin just north of Yan'an Road and are numbered, helpfully, starting with No. 6 - The Russell & Co Building; built c.1881. 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. Today the building is under renovation. No. 12. No. 13 - Customs House; built 1927. Today it is the China Merchants Bank. No. 24 - Yokohama Specie Bank; built 1924. The building houses the Shanghai Federation of Trade Unions today. No. If you have booked a tour in China, this can be problematic.28 - The Glen Line Building; built 1922. 20) but is currently under renovation. No. 27 - Jardine Matheson and Co., Ltd. Today various offices and restaurants are resident in the NKK, most famously M on the Bund (7F) and the Glamour Bar (6F) . An excellent guidebook to the buildings along the bund is The Bund Shanghai: China Faces the West by Peter Hibbard. 20 - The Cathay Hotel; built 1929. 9 - The China Merchants Steam Navigation Company Building; built 1901. It is currently under renovation. No. 15 - The Russo-Chinese Bank, built 1901. Today the building is under renovation. No. Building; built 1920. 29 - The Banque de L'Indo-Chine; built 1914. Try Shanghai's English Language bookstores for a copy. If you prefer not to deal with a travel agent, you can contact the airlines directly. This site is now occupied by the newly constructed Peninsula Hotel, set to open its doors in 2010. 3 - The Union Building; built 1922. There's no number 4 on the Bund and I while I can't find it documented I only assume that like in elevators, there's no fourth floor. Until recent years the hotel served as the south wing of the Peace Hotel (see No. The restoration work at Bund 18, undertaken by Filippo Gabbiani and a team was awarded the Award of Excellence in the 2006 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards. No. 33 - Site of the former British Consulate; built 1873. 6 is devoted to designer boutiques and fine dining. No. 18 - The Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China; built 1923. Reopened in 2004 as Bund 18 housing luxury shops and high-end restaurants. Today the building houses Shiatzy Chen's flagship store. No. 16 - The Bank of Taiwan; built 1924. One of the few buildings on the Bund that have been restored inside to its former glory, today the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank occupies this grand interior. Four in Mandarin, "si" (四) four, rhymes with "si" (死) or death. The area to the north of the Bund is called the Hongkou district . Just like the Western superstition about the number 13, often absent in buildings, you won't find many number 4s in China. No. 19 - The Palace Hotel; built 1906. Next door a park is being reconstructed on the grounds of the consulate. The Garden Bridge; built 1906. 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. 4 - you won't find it. This iron bridge, taken down, renovated and re-installed in 2009, spans the Suzhou Creek and marks the end of the buildings on the Bund. 7 - The Great Northern Telegraph Company Building; built 1907. Presently, the site is occupied by the Everbright Bank of China. No. 5 - Nishin Navigation Building or NKK; built 1925. Today the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China occupies the building. No. 23 - The Bank of China; built 1937. The building still houses customs officials today. No. 2 - The Shanghai Club (private British club); built 1911. Today it is the Agricultural Bank of China. No. Today it houses the China Foreign Exchange Trade Center. No. Today the Bangkok Bank and the Royal Thai Consulate-General occupy this enviable address. No. It is still the property of the Bank of China today. No. 26 - Yangtze Insurance Association Building; built 1916. Known today as "Three on the Bund", it was fully renovated in 2004. 1 - Asiatic Petroleum Building also known as the McBain building; built 1915. If you don't step inside another building, be sure to enter the portico at No. 12 - The Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Building; built 1923. If you start at the southern end of the Bund (called Waitan or 外滩, "why tahn" in Mandarin) where Yan'an Road meets Zhongshan 1 Road, you can follow this quick guide to understand what each of the buildings was when it originally occupied this famous stretch of land along the Huang Pu River. Everbright occupies this site as well. No. The building houses luxury retail shops on the ground floor, a spa run by Evian on the 3rd floor and famously chic restaurants above including Jean Georges and Laris. No. 14 - The Bank of Communications; built 1948. No. Today the building is occupied by the American International Insurance Company. No. 1. 17 - North China Daily News Building; built 1924. Both great places to enjoy the view (see photo). No. Today it is the Chinese Exterior Commerce Ministry. No. china vacations Bejing China Packages Yangtze River Cruises

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Hainan to build China's first rainforest park China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China packages

Hong Kong is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. Primarily, you should see Beijing – but you will not have much choice in the matter, as you will likely be flying in through this capital city. Located in the middle of the island, the park will cover an area of 10 natural reserves and 11 forest parks. Hainan officials hope the park will attract tourists from all around the world. Hong Kong should also be on your list of cities to see, as it is unlike any other city in China. According to an official at Hainan Forest Bureau, the middle area of Hainan is home to the most complete and complicated natural ecological system in the province. Parks showcasing how the people used to live in the rainforest receive about 5,000 tourists a day. Hainan's peak travel season is in the winter, when the island's warm weather and tropical beaches serve as a great getaway for tourists. It is part of a larger plan to integrate the island's cultural and ecological resources in order to better preserve the island's environment while also becoming a top tourist destination. Hainan Island is located at the north edge of the tropical zone and is considered a gene database of tropical species. Located in the middle of the island, the park will cover an area of 10 natural reserves and 11 forest parks. 2010-03-02 11:26:16.0 By Chen Chen Hainan to build China's first rainforest park Hainan, rainforest, tropical forest Hainan to build China’s first rainforest park Hainan to build China’s first rainforest park 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Hainan is planning to build China's first tropical rainforest park. Hainan is currently trying to boost its travel during the rest of the year by increasing its rainforest attractions, which provide a cooler escape during warmer seasons. When you go to China on vacation, there are three cities that you absolutely must visit. This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19502390.htm www.china.org.cn Hainan is planning to build China's first tropical rainforest park. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing.It has 56 percent forest coverage, about 17 percent of which is natural rainforest. It includes mountains, hot springs, waterfalls and pastures. Tourism based on Hainan's ethnic rainforest culture has been on the rise in recent years. Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find Flights will leave from Shanghai at 00:10 and will arrive at Brussels at 06:55 local time; return flights will depart at 13:50 local time and arrive Shanghai at 07:00 the following day. This new route will enable Chinese travelers to take direct flights to Brussels from either Beijing or Shanghai, and to get to 45 cities in European countries and 13 cities in 12 African countries via Brussels. The first direct flight between China and Belgium, the Beijing to Brussels route, was launched in 2006 and is also operated by Hainan Airlines. Going through the Heavenly Gate, the Forbidden City is a truly peaceful and relaxing place. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/03/content_19509052.htm www.china.org.cn Hainan Airlines will open its first intercontinental air route from east China, the Shanghai to Brussels route, from May 28, 2010. 2010-03-03 09:07:39.0 Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route Hainan Airlines ,Shanghai,Brussels route,flight, Beijing, Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Hainan Airlines will open its first intercontinental air route from east China, the Shanghai to Brussels route, from May 28, 2010. This route will be operated using Airbus A330 and will have three flights each week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Within its walls are a number of peaceful gardens and yards, hidden in a network of pathways. This former Imperial Palace is now home to the Palace Museum. This “city within a city” is a wonderful place to get lost for an afternoon, soaking the beauty of the buildings and the exhibitions hosted there. Bejing China Packages china vacations vacation in China

Tags: hainan, china, park, rainforest, city

Taiwan aims to attract 4.8 mln tourists in 2010 Vacations to China Better Than Vegas

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China trip

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. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19500029.htm www.china.org.cn The Central News Agency reports that Taiwan Tourism Bureau has published its plan for 2010 and will aim to develop 100 linked tourist routes to attract 4.8 million tourists in 2010 and over five million in 2011. 2010-03-02 09:08:36.0 Taiwan aims to attract 4.8 mln tourists in 2010 Taiwan ,tourists,2010,China, tour, Hot Spring Fine-Cuisine Carnival, route, Taiwan aims to attract 4.8 mln tourists in 2010 Taiwan aims to attract 4.8 mln tourists in 2010 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Central News Agency reports that Taiwan Tourism Bureau has published its plan for 2010 and will aim to develop 100 linked tourist routes to attract 4.8 million tourists in 2010 and over five million in 2011. According to the plan, the bureau will focus on 100 linked routes, the original Taiwan, and boutique value-added services to plan a series of activities such as the Taiwan Lantern Festival and the Taiwan Hot Spring Fine-Cuisine Carnival. The 100 routes will feature ten different tourism elements and will be chosen by a work group organized by the bureau. Taiwan's Premier Wu Den-yih commented enthusiastically on this work plan saying a good tourism environment needs the joint efforts of many departments in Taiwan,including immigration service at international airports and an update of road signs. In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. Chongqing to build world's most luxurious inland cruisers Chinas Vacation Hot Spots 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. Long a British protectorate, it reverted to Chinese rule many years ago. Meanwhile, advanced technologies of noise reduction and shock absorption will be applied in its structure. Gong also said that besides the previous Three Gorges cruise tour, a new line from Chongqing to Shanghai will be opened after the luxury cruise ships' operation. If you are headed to China for your next vacation, you might be wondering what Chinas vacation hot spots are. Long the capital city of China, it is amazing how much of the country is represented here in the big city. Take your time to see as much of this city as you can. But despite having Chinese rulers again, Hong Kong enjoys certain protections that the rest of China does not. These masterpieces and marvels are the sorts of things that you simply cannot miss out on when you visit China. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19499838.htm www.china.org.cn The Chongqing Traffic and Tourism Investment Group in southwest China revealed on Sunday that it will spend two billion yuan ($292.99 million) to build ten super inland cruise ships. 2010-03-02 09:03:59.0 Chongqing to build world's most luxurious inland cruisers Chongqing ,world,  luxurious, inland cruisers, China, ship, Yangtze river, Chongqing to build world's most luxurious inland cruisers Chongqing to build world's most luxurious inland cruisers 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Chongqing Traffic and Tourism Investment Group in southwest China revealed on Sunday that it will spend two billion yuan ($292.99 million) to build ten super inland cruise ships. The company has start building the first ship of the fleet that is twice as expensive as the most luxury cruise ships currently voyaging on the Yangtze River. Gong Li, a manager of the Group, told the local Chongqing Evening News that the Yangtze River with abounding tourist resources, should become the most luxurious inland tourist line and the ships will be the largest and most luxurious inland cruise ships in the world. A report of the Chongqing Evening News said the first ship to come into use in May, 2011. 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.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. Many people quickly forget who has hosted the previous edition of the Games, but the infrastructure build for those sporting events lasts much longer. The culture, architecture and people of Beijing make it an amazing center that you will need a long time to properly explore. Number two might be the city of Hong Kong. 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. All of the venues are still intact in Beijing, and many of them have guided tours. It is 136 meters long, 19.6 meters wide, with six floors and a gross tonnage of 1,5000 tons, the biggest among the world's inland cruise ships. The ship, to be built as splendently as a five-star hotel, will also have two presidential suites each with over 230 square meters. 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. If you love to shop, you must go to the high end districts in Hong Kong, and check out the massive stores. The surprise might be the remnants of the recent Olympic Games in Beijing.

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Badaling Section China Vacations Offer Three “Must See” Places

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China rentals

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing.Hong Kong is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. When you go to China on vacation, there are three cities that you absolutely must visit. Hong Kong should also be on your list of cities to see, as it is unlike any other city in China. This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. Primarily, you should see Beijing – but you will not have much choice in the matter, as you will likely be flying in through this capital city. Where to Eat with Kids in SH China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. Still, sometimes it's nice to go where kids are not only tolerated, they're catered to. Here are some Western and Chinese restaurants in Shanghai that welcome you and your kids and will keep your plate full and your glass filled. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. While the friendly Chinese attitude may not make your child better behaved, at least you don't have to shoulder ugly sneers and the evil eye. 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.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. The Chinese are relaxed and open with children and this makes it, almost, a pleasure to bring them with you to restaurants. Enjoy! If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had.

Tags: china, vacation, chinese, city, travel

Yangjiang encourages development of five-star hotels China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China packages

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. There are fossil records that show that this area has been populated as long as six thousand years ago. 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. 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. 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. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/26/content_19481708.htm www.china.org.cn According to a document published by Yangjiang Municipal Government it will encourage and reward investment in five-star and higher hotels with the aim of attracting the development of high-star rated hotels in Yangjiang, Guangdong province. 2010-02-26 13:51:58.0 Yangjiang encourages development of five-star hotels Yangjiang, five-star hotel, Guangdong Yangjiang encourages development of five-star hotels Yangjiang encourages development of five-star hotels 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> According to a document published by Yangjiang Municipal Government it will encourage and reward investment in five-star and higher hotels with the aim of attracting the development of high-star rated hotels in Yangjiang, Guangdong province. The government will make a grant of CNY5 million for international brand five-star hotels that are already opened. The capital city of China, it is the best known of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Hong Kong is unlike any other city in China. If you are going to China, there are three cities you must visit while you are there. Xi’an was also the first capital city of what we now know as the country of China. The city is unique in China, and runs on a completely different system than the rest of the country. 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. Hong Kong is among the world’s most important shipping and commerce centers. The differences mean that visiting Hong Kong is unlike any other trip within China. It is one of the most densely populated areas of China, cramming seven million people onto an island of less than 500 square miles. A colony of Great Britain since the first Opium Wars of the 1800s, it reverted to Chinese rule in 1997. But despite being the second largest, it was still the first choice for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. This is beginning of the legendary Silk Road that was the main route for commerce and trade for centuries in Asia. 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. Beijing is the obvious choice, as it will likely be the city that you fly into when you arrive in China. For five-star hotels that are built and put into operation between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2015, the government will give preferential treatment in land-transfer fees to those with a total investment of over CNY300 million and more than 250 rooms. In addition the local government will also give preferential treatment to five-star hotels with regard to 37 classes of fees. To encourage further development the government will also rebate 50% of the local retention for business tax and corporate income tax that hotels had paid in the first three years. Where should you go in China on vacation? Macao to develop world heritage core area China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades Paul's to maintain its historical and cultural value and to improve the quality of its tourism offerings. 2010-02-26 13:38:52.0 Macao to develop world heritage core area Macao, world heritage, the ruins of St Paul's Macao to develop world heritage core area Macao to develop world heritage core area 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Macao SAR government has outlined a plan for the development of its World Heritage core area and it will replan the old town around the ruins of St. It will include: the ruins of St. Paul's are considered to be the core area of this World Heritage Site. The new plan is reported to connect the ruins of St. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/26/content_19481599.htm www.china.org.cn The Macao SAR government has outline a plan for the development of its World Heritage core area and it will replan the old town around the ruins of St. You can visit Tiananmen Square, and go through the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, or go to the Imperial summer home. It consists of more than 20 historic buildings connected by squares and streets. Paul's district, featuring cultural and educational tours; the Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro and O Porto Interio district featuring shopping; the Camoes Garden and Grotto district featuring dining; and the Tap Seac-St. Paul's to maintain its historical and cultural value and to improve the quality of its tourism offerings. The historic center of Macao was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2005. Paul's with key scenic spots nearby to build a comprehensive World Heritage travel network. The ruins of St. Wandering in these amazing places can give you hours or full days of sights to behold.Lazarus Parish district featuring creative arts. 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. 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. Bejing China Packages china vacations Yangtze River Cruises

Tags: china, city, area, world, hotels

Buying Pearls Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China vacations

You'll find an amazing range of colors in the markets from silvers and dark grays, electric blues and greens, firey oranges and yellows, and neon purples and lavenders. 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. If a pearl vendor tells you it's natural, she probably means cultivated. Luster : This is the glow on the surface, not to be confused with the slightly iridescent colors that seem to be under the skin of the pearl. Skin : The fewer blemishes, the higher the quality. Matching : This is obviously important when determining the quality of a whole strand. Fresh water pearls naturally occur in white, ivory, pink, peach and coral. They are usually obvious in their extremely uniform shape and color. If it really is natural, it's probably not going to be in one of China's wholesale pearl markets. Imitation pearls are made from glass, plastic or shell beads which are then coated. Pearls also symbolize patience, purity and peace. A cultured pearl is not an artificial or synthetic pearl. See "Avoiding Fakes" below. A number of factors determine the value of a pearl. Size : The larger the pearl, the rarer and more valuable it is. Shape : A critical factor, the most expensive being the perfect sphere (more common in sea water pearls). Today they are very rare and extremely expensive. It is still produced by a pearl oyster or mollusk and by normal processes of pearl growth. Natural pearls (see below) are extremely rare and expensive. Pearls that were taken from the waters in ancient times were natural. The only difference between the natural pearl and the cultured variety is that the nucleus has been inserted into the oyster to enable the pearl to have a good start. It ensures a larger and more evenly shaped pearl and is produced in a shorter period of time. Do the same with a fake and it's likely to feel smooth and slippery. A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. 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.This metaphor is illustrated by the beautiful pearl hidden inside the unattractive oyster. If you're still having trouble deciding whether it's real, ask the vendor to scrape the pearl with a knife. When you rub a real pearl - natural or cultured - across your teeth, the pearl will feel slightly gritty. Because of its pale, shimmering hue, the pearl has lunar, and therefore feminine, associations. Powder will result in scraping a real pearl, a white plastic bead will be revealed from a fake pearl. Pearl's Circles First Asia Jewelry Plaza, 3rd floor, 288 Fuyou Lu, Shanghai Open 10am-6pm daily. Pearl City 2nd and 3rd floors, 558 Nanjing Dong Lu, Shanghai Open 10am-10pm daily Hong Qiao New World Pearl Market Hong Mei Road on the corner of Yan'an Road/Hong Qiao Road, Shanghai Open 10am-10pm daily If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. Most of these colors are achieved using a special laser-dye process common to mainland China and Hong Kong. Telling the difference between imitation pearls and the real ones is quite simple: the tooth test! In China, pearls symbolize "genius in obscurity", or in our words, a diamond in the rough. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. Pearl vendors are more than happy to prove to you that their pearls are real by using a scraping test. Lantern Festival China Family Vacation Offers Plenty to Work With Sometimes there are competitions to see who has the most beautifully decorated lantern and often a theme is designated by the city or village. See locals having fun at Shanghai's famous Lantern Festival in the Yu Gardens. Legend has it that Yuanxiao was a beautiful maid in the emperorÂ’s palace. Check out the Toronto Chinese Lantern Festival . 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. Read the full story of Yuanxiao . Shanghai has a big celebration in Yuyuan Garden at the end of Chinese New Year . Toronto Â’s Lantern Festival is a spectacular event that actually takes place in the summer – a much more pleasant time to be outside at midnight! 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. On the Traditional Chinese New Year Calendar of Events the Lantern Festival or Yuanxiao , falls on the final, or fifteenth day. This marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations with a party under the full moon. ItÂ’s another reason for families to get together and itÂ’s fun, especially for children, as traditionally they make paper lanterns to illuminate and march under the full moon.

Tags: pearl, china, natural, lantern, chinese

The Second Hangzhou Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival opens On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights

Posted on March 11, 2010 in Visit china

It is the only one of its kind in China. 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 relic sites include the largest stele of Qianlong, an emperor of the Qing dynasty (1644-1911 AD), and many old houses and streets of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD). Admission for Chaoshan Scenic Spot: 40 yuan per person If you are looking for your next vacation destination, you might want to consider going to China for vacation. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/03/content_19511200.htm www.china.org.cn The Second Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival kicked off at Chaoshan Scenic Spot in Yuhang district of Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province on February 25. 2010-03-03 10:40:47.0 The Second Hangzhou Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival opens second, Hangzhou Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival,China, Zhejiang, scenic spot, West lake, expo, The Second Hangzhou Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival opens The Second Hangzhou Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival opens 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The Second Chaoshan Plum Blossom Festival kicked off at Chaoshan Scenic Spot in Yuhang district of Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province on February 25. As the first serial activities of the annual West Lake Expo, this year's Plum Blossom Festival will last until March 15. In addition to enjoying blooming flowers, tourists can take part in various activities including buying commemorative stamps and postcards, and enjoying a bonsai exhibition with more than 200 plants. Another highlight of this year's event is the launching ceremony of Xingguang Yuan – the Hall of Fame for the winners of China Opera Plum Blossom Awards. Till now, Yuhang district has collected more than 300 hand prints of China Opera Plum Blossom Award winners, 70 of which are going to be exhibited here during this festival. 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. Xingguang Yuan will become the exhibition center for traditional Chinese opera research in the future. Yuhang district also recommends two new travel routes during the plum blossom festival, one of which will bring you to the famous historical town Tangxi. Tangxi is an ancient water town located at Yuhang district in the northern suburb of Hangzhou. A snapshot of Chengkan village Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement Baolun Hall in the Ancestral Temple of Luo's, built during the Jiaqing's reign, is a representative collection of typical Huizhou architecture. Baolun Hall in the Ancestral Temple of Luo's, built during the Jiaqing's reign, is a representative collection of typical Huizhou architecture. [Photo by Sala]" width="188"/> http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/03/content_19509555.htm www.china.org.cn Chengkan village in Huizhou District, Anhui province is famous for the residential architecture of the Ming and Qing style. 2010-03-03 09:29:10.0 A snapshot of Chengkan village Chengkan village, China, Anhui, temple, Baolun Hall,Huizhou,architecture A snapshot of Chengkan village A snapshot of Chengkan village 1007 7082651 High Definition Photos /enpproperty--> Where should you go in China on vacation? [Photo by Sala]" border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12382198" md5="" relativeid="12382199" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100303/000d87ad3cdd0cf8000b23.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑æä¾›çš„æœ¬åœ°æ–‡ä»¶" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100303/000d87ad3cdd0cf8000b22.jpg" title="Chengkan village in Huizhou District, Anhui province is famous for the residential architecture of the Ming and Qing style. Baolun Hall in the Ancestral Temple of Luo's, built during the Jiaqing's reign, is a representative collection of typical Huizhou architecture. China Packages Bejing vacation in China china vacations

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Hainan to build China's first rainforest park China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China package

Either that, or go gamble your money away over cheap margaritas and flashy decor with the other party animals. Located in the middle of the island, the park will cover an area of 10 natural reserves and 11 forest parks. 2010-03-02 11:26:16.0 By Chen Chen Hainan to build China's first rainforest park Hainan, rainforest, tropical forest Hainan to build China’s first rainforest park Hainan to build China’s first rainforest park 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Hainan is planning to build China's first tropical rainforest park. Parks showcasing how the people used to live in the rainforest receive about 5,000 tourists a day. Hainan's peak travel season is in the winter, when the island's warm weather and tropical beaches serve as a great getaway for tourists. If you are sick of the phoniness of the neon and craziness of Vegas, China can offer you serenity, wonder, and an amazing adventure. 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. China offers so much more in a vacation.Hainan is currently trying to boost its travel during the rest of the year by increasing its rainforest attractions, which provide a cooler escape during warmer seasons. When you compare a junket to Las Vegas to vacations to China, there is really no comparison. It is part of a larger plan to integrate the island's cultural and ecological resources in order to better preserve the island's environment while also becoming a top tourist destination. Hainan Island is located at the north edge of the tropical zone and is considered a gene database of tropical species. It includes mountains, hot springs, waterfalls and pastures. Tourism based on Hainan's ethnic rainforest culture has been on the rise in recent years. Located in the middle of the island, the park will cover an area of 10 natural reserves and 11 forest parks. Hainan officials hope the park will attract tourists from all around the world. It has 56 percent forest coverage, about 17 percent of which is natural rainforest. According to an official at Hainan Forest Bureau, the middle area of Hainan is home to the most complete and complicated natural ecological system in the province. Really, there is no comparison between the two. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19502390.htm www.china.org.cn Hainan is planning to build China's first tropical rainforest park. Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun Chinas vacation hot spots range from the historical sites like the Great Wall of China, to the ultra-modern tech cities like Hong Kong, and the delicately balanced places in between, like the great city of Beijing. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/03/content_19509052.htm www.china.org.cn Hainan Airlines will open its first intercontinental air route from east China, the Shanghai to Brussels route, from May 28, 2010. 2010-03-03 09:07:39.0 Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route Hainan Airlines ,Shanghai,Brussels route,flight, Beijing, Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route Hainan Airlines to open Shanghai to Brussels route 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Hainan Airlines will open its first intercontinental air route from east China, the Shanghai to Brussels route, from May 28, 2010. This route will be operated using Airbus A330 and will have three flights each week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Flights will leave from Shanghai at 00:10 and will arrive at Brussels at 06:55 local time; return flights will depart at 13:50 local time and arrive Shanghai at 07:00 the following day. This new route will enable Chinese travelers to take direct flights to Brussels from either Beijing or Shanghai, and to get to 45 cities in European countries and 13 cities in 12 African countries via Brussels. The first direct flight between China and Belgium, the Beijing to Brussels route, was launched in 2006 and is also operated by Hainan Airlines. When you visit a new country, the first thing many people do is research what the hot spots are, so they know what parts of the country they simply cannot afford to miss out on. The key to enjoying your time in China is seeing as much of the country as possible, but these hot spots should be the top things on your list.

Tags: hainan, park, rainforest, china, island

Air China to make changes to Japan routes On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights

Posted on March 11, 2010 in Travel to china

If your tastes run to sports that you will be familiar with as a Western sports fan, you will be able to find an elite level of baseball being played in China. If you want something that the average Western sports fan is only beginning to catch on to, you can find many great martial arts competitions. And if you want to see something that you likely won’t see outside of Asia, the dragon boat race festival in China is something to behold. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/01/content_19495519.htm www.china.org.cn According to Kyodo News, Air China will terminate the Chongqing to Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) route from March 28, 2010, and it will launch a new route from Chengdu to Centrair on the same day. 2010-03-01 13:38:47.0 Air China to make changes to Japan routes Air China ,Japan routes,flights, Shanghai, travelers, Air China to make changes to Japan routes Air China to make changes to Japan routes 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> According to Kyodo News, Air China will terminate the Chongqing to Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) route from March 28, 2010, and it will launch a new route from Chengdu to Centrair on the same day. This new route will be operated daily with a stopover in Shanghai; it is expected to attract more business travelers and tourists. Besides these changes, starting from July 18, 2010, Air China will increase the frequency of flights between Beijing and New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, from the current twice a week to three times a week. If you want to take a vacation with a heavy sports theme, you could do worse than to take a China vacation. Korean Air begins codeshare with Air Macao Vacationing In China Offers Everything But that is no knock on the Vegas operations – China has been practicing the art of the opera for centuries. In Las Vegas, one of the few popular non-gambling activities is going to see the shows. Vacations to China are less likely to be shown in those ad spaces, but they ought to be. Of course, part of the fun of staying in Las Vegas is the immense and elaborate hotels. In China, drinking is far from illegal – you will soon learn the phrase “Gan bei!” means literally, bottoms up. But rather than filling your stomach with cheap, bottom shelf booze, China will offer you Bai Jiu, and makes drinking into almost a social ritual meant to bring people closer together. The whole of Las Vegas is intended to empty your pockets with a quick flourish at the card tables. Really, it is the entire reason for the existence of the city in the first place. The return flight, KE5601 (NX825), will depart Incheon airport at 08:00 and arrive at Macau at 10:40. Korean Air has codeshare partnerships with 24 airlines worldwide, including SkyTeam partner airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Japan Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Emirates and more. You will see plenty of advertisements in the newspaper for vacations to all corners of the world, but most of ad space seems to be dedicated to the crass and tacky. These theme resorts may cover the spectrum from fun and hokey to glittery and elaborate, but none could hold a candle to the Wangfujing Grand Hotel in Beijing. Built in sections and pieces for centuries to keep out invaders, these sites will not empty your wallet, but they will fill your mind with true wonder. There are thousands of offers to get you to Vegas – but what if you crave something different? Hong Kong and Macao are only one hour away by boat, so Korean Air passengers will be able to enjoy a wider range of schedule options by using Korean Air's schedules to both destinations. Flight KE5602 (NX826) will depart Macau at 02:10 and arrive at Incheon at 06:40. If Las Vegas is not your cup of tea, here is why a trip to China might be the perfect anti-Vegas vacation: In Las Vegas, you gamble. Vacations to China take on a whole new meaning when you spend your time at this luxury accommodation, which is walking distance from the Forbidden City. In Las Vegas, gambling may be the favorite sport, but drinking is a close second. The entire town reeks of booze, and you will find people with open containers of alcohol stumbling along the main drag at all hours of the day. In China, gambling is illegal, but you can wager on spending a lot of time visiting the historic sights of China – the Great Wall, for instance. While we can agree that there are some interesting acts in Vegas, it can be argued that not even the popular Cirque du Solais shows can hold a candle to a good Chinese opera. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/01/content_19495471.htm www.china.org.cn Korean Air and Air Macao have started sharing codes on the Air Macao operated daily flights between Incheon and Macau. 2010-03-01 13:36:17.0 Korean Air begins codeshare with Air Macao Korean , Air, Macao, China, flights, airport Korean Air begins codeshare with Air Macao Korean Air begins codeshare with Air Macao 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Korean Air and Air Macao have started sharing codes on the Air Macao operated daily flights between Incheon and Macau. The new direct flight schedule to Macao will add more flexibility to those planning travel to the area, especially when combined with Korean Air's 21 weekly flights to Hong Kong. In the Chinese opera style known as Beijing Opera, the actors display great skills in dance and other movements, song and other spoken word pieces, and physical acting. Yangtze River Cruises china vacations Bejing China Packages

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Family-run hotels make Tibetans in Sichuan prosperous China Family Vacation Offers Plenty to Work With

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China resort

He also received free training from the local tourism bureau on how to receive tourists and learned spoken Mandarin and surfing the Internet. Dhondup's house has been built into a three-storey Tibetan-style one with 108 beds, with some rooms equipped with Internet cables. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19501974.htm www.china.org.cn Dhondup, owner of a Tibetan-style family-run hotel in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, western Sichuan Province, got up early in the morning together with his family to prepare breakfast for his customers. 2010-03-02 10:58:33.0 Family-run hotels make Tibetans in Sichuan prosperous Family-run hotels,Tibetans,Sichuan,China, tour,Qinghai ,tibet,   Family-run hotels make Tibetans in Sichuan prosperous Family-run hotels make Tibetans in Sichuan prosperous 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Dhondup, owner of a Tibetan-style family-run hotel in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, western Sichuan Province, got up early in the morning together with his family to prepare breakfast for his customers. A group of tourists from Hong Kong were preparing to leave his hotel. A female tourist, who got to Garze for a second time with a tour group, was quite satisfied with the living conditions and praised the hotel for its unique features. As the traditional Chinese Lunar New Year and Tibetan New Year were over, Tibetan-inhabited areas in Sichuan began to see a slack tourist season. "My hotel is always fully booked when the International Labor Day or the National Day holiday comes," said Dhondup. According to Dhondup, his hotel can have more than 100 clients on the busiest day of a year and even in the slack tourist season it can still have about ten customers. A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. 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. 318 National Route has been finished, I'm sure my hotel will have more business," he said. Dhondup's family used to plant highland barley. Some of them are from inland Chinese cities, others from China's Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan and still others from other countries such as Janpan, Singapore, Germany and the United States. "As the Kading Airport is only 40 km away from my home and the upgrading of No. 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.However, due to the harsh weather conditions on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, his family could only harvest 1,000 kg of highland barley a year, barely enough to meet the needs of their daily life. With the support of the local government, Dhondup got a loan from a bank and began to engage in tourism. "My hotel has enabled my family to lead a happy life," said Dhondup with a smile. The Garze Prefectural Government has been providing aid to local farmers and herders in expanding featured tourism by making full use of rich tourist resources and ecology resources on the plateau. In 2009, the prefecture reported a revenue of 1.78 billion yuan from tourism services and received 2.7 million domestic and foreign tourists, up 129 percent and 132 percent over the same period of 2008, respectively. If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. With the money they make from tourism, his family has also bought a SUV. Handan hold temple fair to greet Lantern Festival China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities [Photo by Zhang Kuixing]" width="188"/> If you are looking for your next vacation destination, you might want to consider going to China for vacation. [Photo by Zhang Kuixing]" border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12375910" md5="" relativeid="12375911" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100302/000d87ad3cdd0cf6b8dd07.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑æä¾›çš„æœ¬åœ°æ–‡ä»¶" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100302/000d87ad3cdd0cf6b8dd06.jpg" title="Visitors enjoy their happy time during a folk temple fair in Handan, north China's Hebei Province, to celebrate the Chinese traditional Lantern Festival. [Photo by Zhang Kuixing] 2010-03-02 10:13:18.0 Handan hold temple fair to greet Lantern Festival Handan , temple fair,Lantern Festival,China, Hubei, tour, Handan hold temple fair to greet Lantern Festival Handan hold temple fair to greet Lantern Festival 1007 7082651 High Definition Photos /enpproperty--> http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/02/content_19501322.htm www.china.org.cn Visitors enjoy their happy time during a folk temple fair in Handan, north China's Hebei Province, to celebrate the Chinese traditional Lantern Festival. [Photo by Zhang Kuixing]" width="188"/> Bejing China Packages china vacations Yangtze River Cruises

Tags: china, family, hotel, tourist, dhondup

China in Spring On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights

Posted on March 11, 2010 in China trips

Then, April hits and all of a sudden, it’s spring! ), it hits hard. It is truly amazing to see nature do its thing despite man’s best effort to pave over it. Below you’ll find a guide to spring in China and some suggestions of things to do. Introduction If it weren't for the rain, spring would certainly be my favorite time in China. And even in the heart of the largest metropolitan city in China, Shanghai, with a population of 18 million, bees manage to carve out a living, pollinating the intrepid flowers. It seems all too soon that the temps get up so high that being outside is uncomfortable, especially for serious sightseeing. 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. Take advantage of the warm spring days to do some of the following: Eat Al Fresco Walking Tours Shanghai's Fuxing Road Shanghai's Shaoxing & Taikang Roads Beijing's Liulichang Hike the Great Wall See the Pandas Make a pilgrimage to a holy Buddhist mountain Watch the rice growing in Guilin Hit the beach before it gets too hot See Hong Kong Tour Hong Kong And Disney Visit the famous Suzhou gardens See Hangzhou and the West Lake Hangzhou West Lake Photo Gallery Spring Holidays Qing Ming – early April May 1 - International Labor Day If you are looking for the ultimate trip for your next scheduled time away from work, vacationing in China might well fit the bill. Even though the winter is short (for most, although the Beijingers might argue this...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. So by the time March rolls around and you can make an attempt at imagining putting your heavy winter coat away, you feel like you’ve lived through half a year of winter. But by the end of March, you can find little green buds on the ends of the trees and flowers starting to force their way into view. It’s a great time to visit China. Every flower seems to bloom at once and varieties I can’t begin to name explode with pink, red and white blooms. China is a world unlike anything in Western culture, and truly must be experienced to be believed.Bring your rain gear and enjoy mild temperatures and fewer tourist crowds. Spring by Month March April May Spring Activities When the weather warms up, just get outside and enjoy it while you can. Use the Subway Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement While they go to Vegas to gamble or New York to shop, you will be halfway across the world, broadening your horizons and seeing sights that they have only ever heard about in glossy travel magazines. Congratulations! Keep valuables like wallets and cell phones safe. In China, you will have the most original vacation out of all of your friends. You've decided to avoid traffic, go green and take the subway. Be aware! Subways are places where pick-pockets hang out. Luckily, signs are in Chinese and English. You might be a little daunted but don't be, take your time and follow these easy directions and hopefully you'll get wherever you need to go with ease and aplomb. Now that you've found the station, the first thing you need to do is buy a ticket. You will see great sights, sample new cuisines, experience a vastly different and vibrant culture, and open your eyes to the world outside of your own country. In most stations, the ticket area is easy to find, but if not, just look up and follow the signs to the ticket area. Vacationing in China offers you the best use of your vacation time.

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The golden village of Jiangdong China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities

Posted on March 10, 2010 in China vacation packages

The annual Duanwu Festival for dragon boat racing is a regular and popular holiday in China. The trees are distributed all around the village, guarding the gates of the locals' houses or in their backyards. The best season to visit Jiangdong Village is late October to mid-December when the gingko leaves turn golden. What is usually seen as a fun little event in Western culture is a much bigger deal in China. The oldest ones are about 500 years old. At the moment, no entrance fee is required, and tourists can dine and live in local family hostels. 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 festival begins on the “double fifth”, or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month on the Chinese calendar. Dragon boat racing. The popular martial art of Kung Fu originated in China, although it is sometimes referred to in China by the original Mandarin term, wushu. 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 races are so popular, that the influence has bled over into other Asian cultures and countries. This means that, on the Western calendar, the date can fluctuate wildly, being as early as May and as late as June. 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 sky is blotted by the spreading golden umbrellas of the trees, and when the wind blows, it rains gold. The village has not yet been developed for tourism. With only 820 households, the village is better known as Gingko Village for its more than 3,000 ancient gingko trees. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/24/content_19468148.htm www.china.org.cn Among all the tourists who flock to Dali and Lijiang, the two most popular tourist destinations in Yunnan Province, few would care to take a detour to Tengchong, a county in western Yunnan that borders Myanmar. 2010-02-24 14:34:59.0 The golden village of Jiangdong  village,Jiangdong,China , Lijiang, Yunnan, trip, The golden village of Jiangdong The golden village of Jiangdong 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> Among all the tourists who flock to Dali and Lijiang, the two most popular tourist destinations in Yunnan Province, few would care to take a detour to Tengchong, a county in western Yunnan that borders Myanmar. Even fewer would care to stop over at a small village called Jiangdong. The different styles are usually broken up into families or sects, depending on their influence. Pick a floral spring at Beijing's suburbs China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities 18 Mu Yan Road, Zhuangzi Village, Bei Wu Town, Shunyi District, Beijing. Tel: 010-61423651 When you visit a new country, the first thing many people do is research what the hot spots are, so they know what parts of the country they simply cannot afford to miss out on. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/24/content_19467655.htm www.china.org.cn Following the Spring Festival is the start of China's Lunar New Year, which marks the return of spring and the start of new life. 2010-02-24 13:59:55.0 Pick a floral spring at Beijing's suburbs floral spring ,Beijing,suburbs, China, tour, restaurant, New year, flowers Pick a floral spring at Beijing's suburbs Pick a floral spring at Beijing's suburbs 1007 7076141 Travel Talk /enpproperty--> Following the Spring Festival is the start of China's Lunar New Year, which marks the return of spring and the start of new life. Staying home sounds quite dull on a sunny day, so we recommend several places in Beijing's suburbs where you can pick some fresh flowers, even in this somewhat chilly early spring. 1. Chinas vacation hot spots range from the historical sites like the Great Wall of China, to the ultra-modern tech cities like Hong Kong, and the delicately balanced places in between, like the great city of Beijing. The key to enjoying your time in China is seeing as much of the country as possible, but these hot spots should be the top things on your list.Many of the flowers in the fields will stay fresh at least ten days, and fresh lilies can even last one month. Driving route: Take the Jing Ping Expressway from the East Sixth Ring Road or Airport Second Expressway, exit at Mu Yan Road (Bei Wu Town), and drive five minutes following the sign. Address: No. Fu Laoer Flower Garden Located in north Beijing's Shunyi District, Fu Laoer Flower Garden boasts dozens of greenhouses where you can find many different fresh flowers as well as vegetables and fruits. Bejing china vacations China Packages Yangtze River Cruises

Tags: china, village, flower, beijing, popular

Use My Mobile China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look

Posted on March 10, 2010 in Travel in china

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.You have an unlocked phone. With an unlocked phone you can simply buy a pre-paid SIM card (often available from shops within the airport, metro stations or nearby hotels at stalls and convenience stores). But if you’re planning on using your phone a lot (which can be very convenient from making reservations to allowing the tailor to get in touch with you as soon as your new garments are ready for their first fitting), I’d think about looking at #2. 2. Your phone contract provides international roaming services. Keep in mind, roaming can be very expensive. If you just want to have your phone for emergencies, then this is probably OK. Rates are very reasonable and the menu for recharging your phone is available in English and Mandarin. Mobile phone vocabulary list You can use this vocabulary listing to help you purchase a new SIM card, re-charge cards and other accessories during your stay. But use must fall under two conditions: 1. Answer: Yes, you can use your own mobile phone during your trip to China. You can top-up your minutes buy buying phone cards (available from convenience stores and stalls) in amounts up to 100rmb. The cost for a SIM card is anywhere between 100-200rmb and will have minutes already included. In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. Peninsula China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. When you go to China on vacation, there are three cities that you absolutely must visit. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing.This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. Primarily, you should see Beijing – but you will not have much choice in the matter, as you will likely be flying in through this capital city. Hong Kong should also be on your list of cities to see, as it is unlike any other city in China. Hong Kong is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. china vacations China Packages Bejing Yangtze River Cruises

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Top Luxury Hotels in Shanghai On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights

Posted on March 10, 2010 in China vacations

The differences mean that visiting Hong Kong is unlike any other trip within China. Address: Shanghai Centre, 1376 Nanjing Xi Lu, Shanghai, 200040, China Tel: +86 21 6279 8888 Fax: +86 21 6279 8800 Profile: Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai Where should you go in China on vacation? The capital city of China, it is the best known of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China. A colony of Great Britain since the first Opium Wars of the 1800s, it reverted to Chinese rule in 1997. But despite being the second largest, it was still the first choice for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. 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. Beautifully appointed rooms with traditional Chinese silk accents and the availability of in-room massage make worrisome jetlag a non-issue. Beijing is the obvious choice, as it will likely be the city that you fly into when you arrive in China. 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. 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. 1. 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. There are fossil records that show that this area has been populated as long as six thousand years ago. The Portman Ritz-Carlton The Portman, as it's locally called, is located centrally on Shanghai's Nanjing Xi (West) Road, one of the main arteries of downtown Shanghai. Hong Kong is among the world’s most important shipping and commerce centers. The city is unique in China, and runs on a completely different system than the rest of the country. Xi’an was also the first capital city of what we now know as the country of China. This is beginning of the legendary Silk Road that was the main route for commerce and trade for centuries in Asia. Hong Kong is unlike any other city in China. If you are going to China, there are three cities you must visit while you are there. 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.There's also a shopping complex right outside with Starbucks, Chaterhouse (English books), CitySupermarket (import food), California Pizza Kitchen and a lot more so if you want to make a really s-l-o-w entry, grab a latte and the FT and you can pretend like you never left. 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. Shanghai for Kids On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights 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. A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. If not, national online travel providers can usually be counted on to find a package for you. 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. Bejing china vacations Great Wall of China China Packages

Tags: china, city, shanghai, vacation, hong

Japanese Restaurants China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look

Posted on March 10, 2010 in China travel agency

After living there for over four years, I consider myself quite particular about my Japanese food, especially when it comes to sushi. Itadakimasu! When you are sitting down to debate your next getaway with the family, toss in the option of a China family vacation. For the parents, amazing architecture and historical sites. For the kids, there is sports and culture all over the place. Anyway, if youÂ’re craving some sushi, a tonkatsu or a bowl of miso soup, here are some excellent choices for you while in Shanghai. But IÂ’ve found authentic California-Japanese, authentic Chinese-Japanese and authentic cheap after-work salaryman Japanese. I was thrilled to come to Shanghai because thereÂ’s a large population of Japanese expats and so, I figured, some darn good eating. 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. China really could be the best destination for you and your family.I was right. OK, I have yet to find a replica of my favorite izakaya or Tokyo sushi bar. 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. Tibet Guide On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights Long the capital city of China, it is amazing how much of the country is represented here in the big city. The northern tip of India borders Tibet's western side and Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar snuggle up to its southern border. This itinerary details how to spend Ten Glorious Days in Tibet . Read on to find out How to Get to Lhasa . Essentials: Population: 2.7 million Weather: The winter in Tibet can be very fierce. Tibetans have survived for thousands of years in the harshest environments - physical and political. 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 visit to Tibet is not a walk in the park, but proper preparation combined with a healthy attitude for the rustic will make any visitor to Tibet fall in love with the place. Location: Tibet is officially called the Tibetan Autonomous Region by the Chinese, or Xizang , pronounced "she-zhang" which means Treasure House of the West. These masterpieces and marvels are the sorts of things that you simply cannot miss out on when you visit China. Number two might be the city of Hong Kong. Many people quickly forget who has hosted the previous edition of the Games, but the infrastructure build for those sporting events lasts much longer. Overview: Tibet , nestled between the Himalayas in the south and the Kunlun Shan in the north, conjures images of blue skies, flapping prayer flags and red-cheeked Tibetan monks. 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. Over 1,500 lakes are scattered throughout Tibet and the mountain waters give way to several major river systems in Asia: the Brahmaputra ( Yarlung Tsangpo ), the Indus and the Mekong ( Lancang Jiang ). Features & Attractions: With over 1,500 lakes, eight peaks over 7,000m (21,000 feet) and a rich cultural heritage, there are countless things to see in Tibet. 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. Number one has got to be a tie among some of the great historical buildings, statues and of course, walls. Or take a look at this itinerary showing you how to spend Ten Glorious Days in Tibet . Travel Permits & Restrictions: Traveling individually to Tibet is officially not allowed. 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. If you love to shop, you must go to the high end districts in Hong Kong, and check out the massive stores. 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. The culture, architecture and people of Beijing make it an amazing center that you will need a long time to properly explore. 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. Aside from visas for China , travelers to Tibet must also obtain permits from the Tibetan Tourism Bureau. Five days is probably the minimum to take your time and see the most important sights. Winds whipping across the plateau coupled with plunging temperatures make a visit in winter months to Tibet the stuff of the hearty traveler. It sits at the far west of China, just south of Xinjiang Autonomous Region. To the northeast lies Qinghai province and to the east lie Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. The Tibetan plateau averages about 4,000m (12,000 feet) above sea level. The surprise might be the remnants of the recent Olympic Games in Beijing. Long a British protectorate, it reverted to Chinese rule many years ago. Tibet Travel Permits are easily organized by the travel agencies working on your other travel arrangements for getting to Tibet. Getting There: There are three ways to get to Tibet: by air to Lhasa, or by rail and car - both routes ending in Lhasa. Temperatures are much more varied in the summer months: it can be at freezing before sunrise and hit 100F by noon. Remember, with the altitude, even the fittest traveler will find himself moving very slowly. If you are headed to China for your next vacation, you might be wondering what Chinas vacation hot spots are. Some of the world's highest mountains surround Tibet: the Himalayas to the south, the Karakoram in the west and the Kunlun in the north. As a result, Hong Kong is a thriving center of commerce and shipping. Take your time to see as much of this city as you can. Ideal time to visit Tibet: The spring and autumn when temperatures are milder and less extreme. Recommended time for visit: As long as you can afford. Read a short article highlighting What to See in Tibet .

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Amazing scenery of Dahuajiao Bay Chinas Vacation Hot Spots

Posted on March 10, 2010 in China packages

[Photo by Zhou Yunjie] " border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12367843" md5="" relativeid="12367844" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100301/000d87ad3cdd0cf56ca203.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑æä¾›çš„æœ¬åœ°æ–‡ä»¶" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100301/000d87ad3cdd0cf56ca202.jpg" title="Located in Wanning, Hainan Province, Dahuajiao Bay is well-known for pebbles spreading all over the beach. [Photo by Zhou Yunjie] " border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12367858" md5="" relativeid="12367859" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100301/000d87ad3cdd0cf56cbe17.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑æä¾›çš„æœ¬åœ°æ–‡ä»¶" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100301/000d87ad3cdd0cf56cbe16.jpg" title="Located in Wanning, Hainan Province, Dahuajiao Bay is well-known for pebbles spreading all over the beach. Really, there is no comparison between the two. [Photo by Zhou Yunjie] " width="188"/> http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/01/content_19494098.htm www.china.org.cn Located in Wanning, Hainan Province, Dahuajiao Bay is well-known for pebbles spreading all over the beach. 2010-03-01 10:46:32.0 Amazing scenery of Dahuajiao Bay China, Hainan, Dahuajiao Bay, Wanning, beach, tour Amazing scenery of Dahuajiao Bay Amazing scenery of Dahuajiao Bay 1007 7082651 High Definition Photos /enpproperty--> When you compare a junket to Las Vegas to vacations to China, there is really no comparison. [Photo by Zhou Yunjie] " width="188"/> 500 guests confirmed to attend Boao Int'l Tourism Forum Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement The key to enjoying your time in China is seeing as much of the country as possible, but these hot spots should be the top things on your list.About a dozen athletes, coaches, sports experts and officials involved in The Vancouver Olympic Winter Games have been invited to the forum; the date is likely to be confirmed after the games. Most of the guests who have confirmed their presence are representatives and elite members of tourism-related industries, domestic and foreign politicians or former politicians, or executives of the world's top 500 companies. There have been more applications than expected. Chinas vacation hot spots range from the historical sites like the Great Wall of China, to the ultra-modern tech cities like Hong Kong, and the delicately balanced places in between, like the great city of Beijing. http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-02/26/content_19482694.htm www.china.org.cn More than 500 guests have been confirmed to attend the Boao International Tourism Forum almost a month before the forum opens on March 20. 2010-02-26 15:59:51.0 By Wang Yanfang 500 guests confirmed to attend Boao Int'l Tourism Forum Boao International Tourism Forum, Boao, tourism 500 guests confirmed to attend Boao Int’l Tourism Forum 500 guests confirmed to attend Boao Int’l Tourism Forum 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> More than 500 guests have been confirmed to attend the Boao International Tourism Forum almost a month before the forum opens on March 20. Statistics from the Preparatory Committee for the Boao International Tourism Forum show that more than 500 guests have confirmed their presence at the forum, many of whom actively applied for attendance. The deadline for registrations is the end of the month. The business community and media are especially interested in obtaining information from the forum, while, many high-level guests are eager to be guest speakers and express their views. When you visit a new country, the first thing many people do is research what the hot spots are, so they know what parts of the country they simply cannot afford to miss out on. An official from the Preparatory Committee for the forum said that the number of confirmed guests is far greater than expected. China Packages Bejing china vacations vacation in China

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