Lunar Calendar & Zodiac China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China tour package
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 would like to see China, and I mean really see it, and not just like the typical tourist, you might want to consider China vacation tours. The second component is the terrestrial branch being one of the twelve animal (zodiac) signs. What you take from your time in China will be vastly different, depending on which tour you take.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. Each year has a label consisting of two parts. These groups can range from tiny to massive, and can either bore you with simple visits to typical sites, or wow you with unexpected treats and unknown wonders. Before all this, the rat and the cat were good friends. 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 elements were associated with five planets in ancient times, Jupiter=Wood, Mars=Fire, Saturn=Earth, Venus=Metal, Mercury=Water. 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). Every two and a half months an additional month is added creating a lunar leap year. A lunar year is made up of twelve months with twenty-nine and a half days in each month. 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 first component is the celestial stem being one of the five elements. 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. The sort of trip you end up with depends on you – you will need to do your research before you book a package deal, and make sure you are getting what you paid for. 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 Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement 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 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 If you want to take a vacation with a heavy sports theme, you could do worse than to take a China vacation. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 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. 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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.
Gift Guides China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China travel agency
While you can find plenty of junk in the markets - and don't forget, practically everything at home is "made in China" - you might want to get something special. 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. But these ideas apply to any city you're visiting. Gift Guide for Kids Gift Guide for Her Gift Guide for Him If you are looking for the ultimate trip for your next scheduled time away from work, vacationing in China might well fit the bill. China is a world unlike anything in Western culture, and truly must be experienced to be believed.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. Because of my location in Shanghai, I've pinpointed shops where you can find these treasures. And for some of the prices available, you might want to do all your future Christmas and birthday shopping during your trip... These gift guides for shopping in China give you helpful ideas of what to bring back to your family, friends and co-workers. Year of the Horse On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights Of course, part of the fun of staying in Las Vegas is the immense and elaborate hotels. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Popular Cheerful Skilled with money matters Hard-working Impatient Independent Intelligent Selfish Tigers, Dogs Rats Scientist Adventurer Politician Poet Thomas Edison, Davy Crockett, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Sandra Day O'Connor, Rembrandt, Teddy Roosevelt 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 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. There are thousands of offers to get you to Vegas – but what if you crave something different? Vacations to China are less likely to be shown in those ad spaces, but they ought to be. 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. 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 *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. The whole of Las Vegas is intended to empty your pockets with a quick flourish at the card tables. In Las Vegas, gambling may be the favorite sport, but drinking is a close second. Really, it is the entire reason for the existence of the city in the first place. 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 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. In Las Vegas, one of the few popular non-gambling activities is going to see the shows. 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. 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. But that is no knock on the Vegas operations – China has been practicing the art of the opera for centuries. In China, drinking is far from illegal – you will soon learn the phrase “Gan bei!” means literally, bottoms up. 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. 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 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. china vacations Bejing China Packages vacation in China
Year of the Monkey China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China trips
1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Wandering in these amazing places can give you hours or full days of sights to behold.You can visit Tiananmen Square, and go through the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, or go to the Imperial summer home. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Intelligent Clever Good memory Popular Judgemental Dragons, Rats Tigers Anything! 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. Truman, Leonardo da Vinci, Alice Walker 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 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. The monkey will almost always be successful. Julius Caesar, Bette Davis, Annie Oakley, Eleanor Roosevelt, Betsy Ross, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Harry S. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. Year of the Snake Chinas Vacation Hot Spots Hong Kong is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 *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. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing.Hong Kong should also be on your list of cities to see, as it is unlike any other city in China. 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. This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Vain Selfish Sympathetic Charitable Romantic Charming Stingy Self-reliant Roosters, Oxen Boars Teacher Philosopher Writer Psychiatrist Charles Darwin, Elizabeth I, Picasso, Anne Frank, Mahatma Gandhi, Carole King, Abraham Lincoln, Edgar Allen Poe 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 go to China on vacation, there are three cities that you absolutely must visit. Bejing china vacations vacation in China China Packages
Getting Around Shanghai China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China trips
Pudong (airport code: PVG) is approximately 45 minutes from the city center (downtown Puxi). The Maglev train currently connects the airport to Shanghai's subway system but if you're not staying in Pudong, it is faster and wiser to take a taxi. Note: Be sure to use the proper (official) taxi line for lifts into the city, the taxi touts that approach you in the airport charge higher rates. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.Just wave them away with a bu yao , pronounced "boo yao" (don't need/want) and continue out the door to the taxi line. China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Travelers arriving from international destinations will land at Pudong International Airport. Year of the Dragon On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 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 grounds tend to attract those looking to get some exercise outdoors, including everything from sparring martial artists to slow but steady joggers. 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. Do your research before you buy.This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people. One of the great sights that you might be able to view in China includes the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. Anthony, Joan of Arc, Pearl Buck, Sigmund Freud, Theodore Seuss Geisel, John Lennon, Florence Nightingale, Mae West 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 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. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. 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. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Healthy, Energetic Short-tempered Stubborn Honest Sensitive Trust-worthy Gregarious Popular Intelligent Monkeys, Rats Dogs Priest Artist Politician Susan B. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. 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. That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. These tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. Bejing china vacations China Packages Great Wall of China
Year of the Sheep (Goat or Ram Chinas Vacation Hot Spots
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China rentals
However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 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.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Wise Gentle Compassionate Charming Elegant Slightly materialistic Quick to complain Shy Pessimistic Rabbits, Dogs Oxen Actor Gardener Beachcomber Mark Twain, Rudolph Valentino, Barbara Walters, Orville Wright 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 Going through the Heavenly Gate, the Forbidden City is a truly peaceful and relaxing place. 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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. Year of the Snake Vacationing In China Offers Everything But someone who wants to see the beauty and wonder of this world really ought to consider going to China, if only to see these three wonders: The Great Wall of China. These clay warriors were discovered near Xi’an in the 1970s by a farmer who was drilling a new well. It was constructed in the 1400s, lasting more than 15 years and taking over a million men to build. Walls had been built at different times to keep out different groups, including the Xiongnu, Mongolian and Manchurian peoples. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. The project was said to have taken the labors of over 700,000 men, and incredibly, each of the figures is completely original – no two warriors were allowed to be made the same. It is called the Forbidden City because, during its time as a functioning walled city and imperial palace, no one could leave or enter without the approval of the Emperor himself. In total, there are more than 8,000 figures in this collection, each featuring an amazing level of detail and craftsmanship. The Forbidden City. However, from the ground, the Great Wall is an imposing and impressive sight to behold. 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Today, it is an architectural highlight of any trip to China.The warriors are part of a funereal display for the first Emperor of Qin in 200 BC, around the time that the first part of the Great Wall was built. No china vacations could be complete without a visit to this former Imperial Palace, located in the heart of Beijing. The Mongols finally breached the Wall in 1644, and quickly took Beijing afterwards. A common misconception is that the Great Wall can be seen from space – while the length of it would certainly be discernable, the width of less than thirty feet at its widest would mean that it would be impossible to see from space without a great amount of magnification. The Xi’an Terracotta Warriors. The combination of walls is nearly 4,000 miles long. Only a small portion of the collection has been unearthed, but those that have been are an amazing sight. Today, it is more commonly known as the Palace Museum. Originally built around 200 BC, there is very little that remains of the first Wall, but those that sprung up afterwards continue to stand to this day. What are commonly referred to as a single wall are, in fact, several walls that have been built, rebuilt and maintained for centuries. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Vain Selfish Sympathetic Charitable Romantic Charming Stingy Self-reliant Roosters, Oxen Boars Teacher Philosopher Writer Psychiatrist Charles Darwin, Elizabeth I, Picasso, Anne Frank, Mahatma Gandhi, Carole King, Abraham Lincoln, Edgar Allen Poe 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 Out of all of the destinations on this planet, China vacations seem to be pretty low on the “gotta go” list of the average Western traveller. china vacations China Packages Yangtze River Cruises Bejing
Year of the Rat Chinas Vacation Hot Spots
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China travel guide
If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Imaginative Charming Generous to loved ones Hard-working Quick-tempered Critical Dragons, Monkeys Horses Writer Critic Publicist Charlotte Bronte, Truman Capote, Catherine I, Wolfgang Mozart, William Shakespeare, George Washington, Plato, Peter Tchaikovsky. 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 While you are on vacation to China, you may want to find out more about the religions that have helped to shape China into the country it is today. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. And while China is ripe with temples, shrines and holy buildings for a number of faiths and religions, there are three specific sites that every visitor to China should take the time to visit, no matter their faith or beliefs – the White Cloud Temple, The Temple of Heaven, and the White Horse Temple. Even those who are not Taoist or Buddhist will be fascinated by these buildings and their surrounding grounds. 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Terracotta Army Vacations to China Better Than Vegas Their shoveling began the unearthing of a huge burial pit belonging to the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the founding Qin dynasty emperor who unified China into a central state and also laid the foundation for the Great Wall . It is estimated that the tomb took 38 years to build, between 247 BC and 208BC, and utilized the labor of over 700,000 conscripts. It has been said that going to China and not seeing the Terracotta Army is like going to Egypt and missing the Pyramids. However, private tours will give you the luxury of taking your time. On your own, you can take Bus #306 from the parking lot just east of the Xi'An train station. Usually one of the farmers who was digging the well on that fateful day in 1974 is there signing books. Websites quote it is not possile to take photos but we had no trouble during our visit. There will be hawkers willing to make you a good deal. You can buy books about history and discovery of the terracotta army in the museum bookstore. It is approximately a one-hour flight, or an overnight train ride from Beijing. After paying entrance, you will watch a 360-degree movie about the site and how the army was discovered. You'll then visit the sheds that house Pits 1-3 (named in order of discovery). You'll have to lug them around, so buy them on the way out. Viewing Emperor Qin Shi Huang's terracotta army guarding his burial site and protecting his entry to the afterlife from the earthen side of a continuing archeological project is certainly one of the most memorable parts of any trip to China. It is here you can see the columns of soldiers followed by war chariots. Carry on to Pits 2 and 3. Most visitors go on group or private tours. Private Tours can be booked in the same way but will cost more. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.Xi'An is China's first historic capital, made primary city by the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Wariors and Horses Museum is located about thirty minutes outside Xi'An proper by car. The terracotta army itself was discovered in 1974 when some farmers were digging a well. The emperor died in 210 BC. The museum site is divided into three parts where one can view the three pits where ongoing reconstruction of the army is taking place. Ask your hotel for directions. Admission fee: 90rmb (US$ 11) from Mar 1 to Nov 30, 65rmb (US$ 8) from Dec 1 - Feb 28 Opening hours: 8:00am to 6:00pm Recommended time for visit: three hours Don't buy your copies of the terracotta warriors on the way in! Group tours can be booked out of your hotel or even made from other cities, such as Beijing, or in your home country. Xi'An lies to the southwest of Beijing. Just remember not to use the flash. China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Pit 1 is the largest and has had the most restoration done. The site was made a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1987.A visit to the terracotta army is made from Xi'An (pronounced She-ahn), the capital of Shaanxi province. Great Wall of China Bejing Yangtze River Cruises china vacations
Tags: year, china, terracotta, army, emperor
Year of the Monkey China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades
Posted on March 10, 2010 in China cruises
However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. A beautiful example can be seen in the stunning design of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which was once the Chinese Imperial Palace, and is now the Palace Museum, and like the Xi’an Warriors, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Intelligent Clever Good memory Popular Judgemental Dragons, Rats Tigers Anything! Architecture in China is also an important part of their culture, with an emphasis on symmetry and width in their designs. Chinese operas are a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike. 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. The monkey will almost always be successful. Julius Caesar, Bette Davis, Annie Oakley, Eleanor Roosevelt, Betsy Ross, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Harry S. Truman, Leonardo da Vinci, Alice Walker 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 In China, culture is an important part of everyday life. May Day Chinas Vacation Hot Spots 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. 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.They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. 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 Beijing Tigers actually predate the league by many years, and have been the most successful team in the CBL, winning the championships three times. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception.
Year of the Dragon China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades
Posted on March 09, 2010 in China tour package
A savvy shopper will check online first to see if dedicated Chinese providers can offer them a good deal. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 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. 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Healthy, Energetic Short-tempered Stubborn Honest Sensitive Trust-worthy Gregarious Popular Intelligent Monkeys, Rats Dogs Priest Artist Politician Susan B. Anthony, Joan of Arc, Pearl Buck, Sigmund Freud, Theodore Seuss Geisel, John Lennon, Florence Nightingale, Mae West 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 If you look hard enough, there are China vacation packages to be had. Year of the Rooster Vacations to China Better Than Vegas However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Hard-working Shrewd Bold Boastful Correct Snake, Oxen Rabbits Restaurant owner Publicist World traveler Confucius, Catherine the Great, Amelia Earhart, Rudyard Kipling, Groucho Marx 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 Dog Year of the Boar China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor. 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. vacation in China china vacations Bejing China Packages
Cash and Purchases Vacationing In China Offers Everything
Posted on March 09, 2010 in China travel agency
The annual Duanwu Festival for dragon boat racing is a regular and popular holiday in China. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. 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 races are so popular, that the influence has bled over into other Asian cultures and countries. The festival begins on the “double fifth”, or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month on the Chinese calendar. Some fighting styles are based on the movements of predator animals, while some are meant to be used more purely as self defence, and others use the ancient movements of historical warrior training. The popular martial art of Kung Fu originated in China, although it is sometimes referred to in China by the original Mandarin term, wushu. This means that, on the Western calendar, the date can fluctuate wildly, being as early as May and as late as June. The different styles are usually broken up into families or sects, depending on their influence. Dragon boat racing. There are many different styles of combat training that fall into this category, and public displays and competitions are common in China – not to mention, incredibly popular. What is usually seen as a fun little event in Western culture is a much bigger deal in China. Year of the Rabbit Chinas Vacation Hot Spots If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Articulate Ambitious Controlled Affectionate Cooperative Friendly Overly sentimental Sheep, Boars Roosters Lawyer Diplomat Actor Michelangelo, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie 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 Going through the Heavenly Gate, the Forbidden City is a truly peaceful and relaxing place. Within its walls are a number of peaceful gardens and yards, hidden in a network of pathways. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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.This former Imperial Palace is now home to the Palace Museum.
Gift Guides Vacationing In China Offers Everything
Posted on March 08, 2010 in China rentals
In particular, there are three pieces of history that, should you make your way to China, you absolutely must see – the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, the Great Wall of China, and d the Forbidden City in Beijing. And for some of the prices available, you might want to do all your future Christmas and birthday shopping during your trip...In 1974, a local farmer tried to drill a well, and instead, discovered the first of more than eight thousand clay warrior statues that were buried with the first Emperor of Qin around 200 BC. But these ideas apply to any city you're visiting. Gift Guide for Kids Gift Guide for Her Gift Guide for Him If you are a history buff, Chinese vacations can offer you sights that you will find nowhere else on Earth. You can visit the excavation site, and see those warriors that have been uncovered.While you can find plenty of junk in the markets - and don't forget, practically everything at home is "made in China" - you might want to get something special. The Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an are an amazing sight. These gift guides for shopping in China give you helpful ideas of what to bring back to your family, friends and co-workers. It is estimated that it took nearly a million men to create this army of clay statues, and it is also said that the terracotta warriors are like snowflakes, in that no two are identical. Not all of the warriors have been excavated, but the ones that have been are miraculously well maintained. Because of my location in Shanghai, I've pinpointed shops where you can find these treasures. Year of the Horse China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find 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. 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. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 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! All of the venues are still intact in Beijing, and many of them have guided tours. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Popular Cheerful Skilled with money matters Hard-working Impatient Independent Intelligent Selfish Tigers, Dogs Rats Scientist Adventurer Politician Poet Thomas Edison, Davy Crockett, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Sandra Day O'Connor, Rembrandt, Teddy Roosevelt 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 If you are headed to China for your next vacation, you might be wondering what Chinas vacation hot spots are. Take your time to see as much of this city as you can. Many people quickly forget who has hosted the previous edition of the Games, but the infrastructure build for those sporting events lasts much longer. If you love to shop, you must go to the high end districts in Hong Kong, and check out the massive stores. Number two might be the city of Hong Kong. Long a British protectorate, it reverted to Chinese rule many years ago. The surprise might be the remnants of the recent Olympic Games in Beijing. Number one has got to be a tie among some of the great historical buildings, statues and of course, walls. Long the capital city of China, it is amazing how much of the country is represented here in the big city. The culture, architecture and people of Beijing make it an amazing center that you will need a long time to properly explore. 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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. But despite having Chinese rulers again, Hong Kong enjoys certain protections that the rest of China does not. 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. These masterpieces and marvels are the sorts of things that you simply cannot miss out on when you visit China. Great Wall of China vacation in China China Packages china vacations
Year of the Sheep (Goat or Ram China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun
Posted on March 08, 2010 in China deals
From pro-level baseball and basketball games featuring home-grown Chinese talent, to the elegant and graceful Chinese ballets, there are visual wonders everywhere. No better example of this exists than the Forbidden City complex in the heart of Beijing. 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. While they may not understand the language or the cultural significance of the differences, children will enjoy the leisure activities offered in China. China offers something for every member of the family, no matter what their interests are. A China family vacation might not be the most popular choice going in, but if you can convince your family to give it a shot, it will likely become the best vacation you have ever taken as a family, and one that you will talk about for the rest of your lives. For the kids, there is plenty to do in China. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Wise Gentle Compassionate Charming Elegant Slightly materialistic Quick to complain Shy Pessimistic Rabbits, Dogs Oxen Actor Gardener Beachcomber Mark Twain, Rudolph Valentino, Barbara Walters, Orville Wright 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 most people consider a family vacation, they think of theme parks, camping trips, and long hours in the car. From the temples to the simplest buildings, Chinese architecture is so different and so beautiful that visitors cannot help but stop and stare. Children will also likely be amazed by the spectacle of the dragon boat race festivals, which include exciting boat races, unique cultural displays, and many other visually impressive and culturally meaningful events. But if you want to expose your children to something that will leave a lasting impact and widen their horizons, a China family vacation might be just the ticket. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. While Western architecture tends to build their structures tall and narrow, Chinese buildings are shorter and wider, and usually, much more ornate than visitors are accustomed to. For the parents, the architecture of China can be a very strong draw. Here, the intricate and detailed planning that went into the design of a city within a city will astound even moderate fans of good design, and completely overwhelm those who understand the intricacies of architectural design. But what is there for the family to do in China? More than you can imagine, really. For the whole family, there are plenty of amazing and educational sights to discover together, like the Great Wall of China; amazing restaurants to try, for the bold and for those who crave something simple; markets and shopping that are at once comfortably similar to home and wildly different than anything ever experienced before; the remaining buildings from the Olympics Games to inspire and awe; and so much more. Year of the Snake China Vacation Tours Show You More Than You Could Find 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 *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. 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. Vacationing in China offers you the best use of your vacation time.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Vain Selfish Sympathetic Charitable Romantic Charming Stingy Self-reliant Roosters, Oxen Boars Teacher Philosopher Writer Psychiatrist Charles Darwin, Elizabeth I, Picasso, Anne Frank, Mahatma Gandhi, Carole King, Abraham Lincoln, Edgar Allen Poe 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 In China, you will have the most original vacation out of all of your friends. 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.
Year of the Boar (Pig) Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement
Posted on March 08, 2010 in China travel agency
Coming home without having experienced all three would be a terrible waste, and would require a return ticket as soon as possible!However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. But if you are a history fan, or you want to experience something uniquely Chinese, there are three main sights in China that you simply cannot miss out on – the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, the Great Wall of China, and the Forbidden City in Beijing. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Chivalrous Gallant Honest Tolerant Thirsty for knowledge Well-informed Quick tempered Avoid confrontation Naïve Sheep, Rabbits Other Boars Entertainers Lawyers Lucille Ball, Ernest Hemingway, Mahalia Jackson, Albert Schweitzer, Julie Andrews, Ronald Reagan 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 Any Chinese vacations are going to be busy – once you get there, you will find that there is so much culture, art, architecture, history, sports and other amazing things to see, do, taste and experience. 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. June in China Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. 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. Wandering in these amazing places can give you hours or full days of sights to behold.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. You can visit Tiananmen Square, and go through the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, or go to the Imperial summer home. china vacations China Packages Bejing vacation in China
Lunar Calendar & Zodiac Chinas Vacation Hot Spots
Posted on March 08, 2010 in China travel guide
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. Before all this, the rat and the cat were good friends. 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 While you are on vacation to China, you may want to find out more about the religions that have helped to shape China into the country it is today. 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 elements are further associated with the animal zodiac signs. Each year has a label consisting of two parts. 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. Every two and a half months an additional month is added creating a lunar leap year. A lunar year is made up of twelve months with twenty-nine and a half days in each month. 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. 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. The second component is the terrestrial branch being one of the twelve animal (zodiac) signs. Even those who are not Taoist or Buddhist will be fascinated by these buildings and their surrounding grounds.And while China is ripe with temples, shrines and holy buildings for a number of faiths and religions, there are three specific sites that every visitor to China should take the time to visit, no matter their faith or beliefs – the White Cloud Temple, The Temple of Heaven, and the White Horse Temple. The elements were associated with five planets in ancient times, Jupiter=Wood, Mars=Fire, Saturn=Earth, Venus=Metal, Mercury=Water. The first component is the celestial stem being one of the five elements. 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). Year of the Dog China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun 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 is perhaps the most futuristic cities in the country. This city features some amazing historical sites, and now has some great modern wonders, thanks to their hosting of the latest Olympic Games. 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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 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. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Xi’an has an amazing history that no traveller should skip seeing.However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. China Packages Bejing china vacations Yangtze River Cruises
Year of the Monkey Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement
Posted on March 07, 2010 in China vacation
Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Intelligent Clever Good memory Popular Judgemental Dragons, Rats Tigers Anything! 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 *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. The monkey will almost always be successful. Julius Caesar, Bette Davis, Annie Oakley, Eleanor Roosevelt, Betsy Ross, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Harry S. Truman, Leonardo da Vinci, Alice Walker 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 China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. Panjiayuan Market Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement It is called the Forbidden City because, during its time as a functioning walled city and imperial palace, no one could leave or enter without the approval of the Emperor himself. In total, there are more than 8,000 figures in this collection, each featuring an amazing level of detail and craftsmanship. Chinese purveyors are experts at making fakes look like ancient treasures dug up and on sale for a fraction of what you'd pay at Sotheby's. Walk away. Sometimes it works...The Chinese address is æ½˜å®¶å›æ¡¥è¥¿.Mon-Fri 8:30am-6pm; Sat-Sun 4:30am-6pmIn Mandarin, the market is called Pan Jia Yuan Jiu Huo Shichang . For bargain hunters it's a dream come true. Panjiayuan Antiques Market (æ½˜å®¶å›æ—§è´§å¸‚场) is in the southeast corner of the Third Ring Road, just east of Longtan Park. Wares are somewhat divided according to type, so you'll find jewelry (pearls, amber, jade) in one section, furniture in another, etc. The Mongols finally breached the Wall in 1644, and quickly took Beijing afterwards. Only a small portion of the collection has been unearthed, but those that have been are an amazing sight. You may find the item again, but you may not. Bargaining 101: Eight Rules and Two Myths About Shopping in China will give you more guidance to shopping and bargaining. The answer is just about anything. In my experience, the best thing to do is make some snap decisions and then start the negotiations at the low end. but be prepared when it doesn't. Decide if you really want it. It's hard to extract a real price so you'll have to bargain to get close. Decide how much you're willing to pay. How much is it worth to you? No china vacations could be complete without a visit to this former Imperial Palace, located in the heart of Beijing. This is pronounced: "pan jya yoo-an jyoh hwoh shih-chahng". It's rather a mouthful. Panjiayuan Market is a sprawling gargantuan living being that comes to life in the wee hours of Saturday morning as the vendors set up their stalls and display their wares. The project was said to have taken the labors of over 700,000 men, and incredibly, each of the figures is completely original – no two warriors were allowed to be made the same. The Xi’an Terracotta Warriors. Originally built around 200 BC, there is very little that remains of the first Wall, but those that sprung up afterwards continue to stand to this day. (Don't forget to take a taxi card from your hotel so you can get back with your treasures!) Please, don't be fooled by the offers of "antiques". The warriors are part of a funereal display for the first Emperor of Qin in 200 BC, around the time that the first part of the Great Wall was built. One day, even one weekend, isn't enough to see everything there is on offer, but thankfully, there is some method to the shopping madness. The combination of walls is nearly 4,000 miles long. Walls had been built at different times to keep out different groups, including the Xiongnu, Mongolian and Manchurian peoples. Today, it is more commonly known as the Palace Museum. The Forbidden City. Your best bet is to show your hotel concierge the name in English and he will be able to communicate to your taxi driver. The best thing to do is go with and open mind, a limited budget and a few ideas about what you'd like to have.Some say offer 10% of what the vendor is asking, some say 25% and work up from there. It was constructed in the 1400s, lasting more than 15 years and taking over a million men to build. Today, it is an architectural highlight of any trip to China.But someone who wants to see the beauty and wonder of this world really ought to consider going to China, if only to see these three wonders: The Great Wall of China. A quick list of some of the things you'll find: Jewelry such as amber, jade, pearls, coral, turquoise and much more Chinese furniture Ethnic minority pieces such as Miao embroidery and silver clothing accessories Cultural Revolution-era items Chinese paintings and calligraphy objects Buddhist statuary Porcelain & ceramics Cloissone Out of all of the destinations on this planet, China vacations seem to be pretty low on the “gotta go” list of the average Western traveller. However, from the ground, the Great Wall is an imposing and impressive sight to behold. What are commonly referred to as a single wall are, in fact, several walls that have been built, rebuilt and maintained for centuries. Unless you are a dealer in Chinese artifacts and have years of experience, trust me, you won't be able to tell the difference, and even the dealers get fooled . A common misconception is that the Great Wall can be seen from space – while the length of it would certainly be discernable, the width of less than thirty feet at its widest would mean that it would be impossible to see from space without a great amount of magnification. Here's a look at what's on offer through a virtual tour . These clay warriors were discovered near Xi’an in the 1970s by a farmer who was drilling a new well.
Chinese New Year Vacations to China Better Than Vegas
Posted on March 07, 2010 in China homes
In Las Vegas, one of the few popular non-gambling activities is going to see the shows. 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. 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. 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. Chinese workers usually get a week of holiday over Chinese New Year. 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. Businesses and factories usually only take about one week off. In essence, Chinese New Year is spending time with family, gift giving and, the all important, food-fest. While Americans, if we're lucky may get Christmas Eve day and Christmas Day off, and Europeans may take a whole week holiday, Chinese New Year festivities officially last for fifteen days. There are thousands of offers to get you to Vegas – but what if you crave something different? 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. 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. 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. The Chinese Lunar Calendar & Zodiac: The Chinese Lunar Calendar & Chinese Zodiac article will explain the origins and the meaning of the calendar and zodiac animals. The Twelve Animal Signs: Just for fun, take a look at your Chinese Zodiac sign to see what characteristics you share with your designated animal and some interesting career advice. In Las Vegas, gambling may be the favorite sport, but drinking is a close second. 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 Chinese New Year Food Here are some wonderful articles about what is traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year from our guide to Chinese cuisine: Symbolic Chinese Food and Recipes Chinese New Year Menus Chinese New Year Recipes Chinese New Year Around the Globe If you're not going to be in China, here's what's happening closer to home: Chinese New Year in Canada Chinese New Year in Dublin Chinese New Year in Hong Kong Chinese New Year in London Chinese New Year in Los Angeles Chinese New Year in Montreal Chinese New Year in New York City Chinese New Year in Paris Chinese New Year in San Francisco Chinese New Year in Scandinavia Chinese New Year in Sydney Chinese New Year in the UK Chinese New Year in Washington DC Event Round Up (Travel With Kids) 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. Really, it is the entire reason for the existence of the city in the first place. In China, drinking is far from illegal – you will soon learn the phrase “Gan bei!” means literally, bottoms up. There's actually a lot more to it than lion dances and firecrackers, although these two pieces of tradition are integral and more visible, Chinese New Year to China is like Christmas to the West. Vacations to China are less likely to be shown in those ad spaces, but they ought to be. Read answers to those questions about Traveling During Chinese New Year . Chinese New Year Defined: Just what is Chinese New Year? But that is no knock on the Vegas operations – China has been practicing the art of the opera for centuries. Of course, part of the fun of staying in Las Vegas is the immense and elaborate hotels. But generally, aside from New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, most service facilities (restaurants, hotels) and certainly tourist sights are open. Still have questions about openings and closings? Just how do the Chinese people spend time during the fifteen days of celebration? Find out by reading the Chinese New Year Traditional Calendar of Events . When is Chinese New Year? In 2009, New Year's Day falls on January 26. 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. 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.The whole of Las Vegas is intended to empty your pockets with a quick flourish at the card tables. History of Chinese New Year: Read a brief article about the origins of Chinese New Year . 2010 - The Year of the Tiger: 2010 brings us the Year of the Tiger on the Chinese lunar calendar. What's Your Sign? This means that offices and factories are closed and shops and banks may have limited hours. Vaccinations for China Travel Vacationing In China Offers Everything Japanese Encephalitis is recommended for longer-term travelers, especially children, who are susceptible to mosquito bites and will be outdoors during mosquito season (which can last from May to November in southern China). Hepatitis B is also recommended for longer term visitors/residents as it is very common throughout China. Rabies is recommended for any traveler who may come in contact with or handle animals, especially dogs. Rabies is common in China while the vaccination is not. The most famous examples include the Great Wall of China, and the Terracotta Warriors. The museum that houses them is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and definitely worth a trip.If you are moving to China for longer than three months, you’ll want to visit a physician to find out what is recommended for living in the area to which you’ll be moving. Routine immunizations should be up to date. There is almost 4000 miles of the Wall itself, but one of the most famous areas is the North Pass, which helped to defend the city of Beijing. Travel to China is different from living in China. These include Tetanus-diphtheria (DPT) Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Varicella (chickenpox) Hepatitis A is recommended for all travelers over 12 months of age to China. The Terracotta Warriors were discovered near Xi’an in 1974, and includes over 8,000 figures. Typhoid is recommended especially if you’ll be in rural areas where you may eat or drink outside large restaurants and hotels where you may come in contact with contaminated water or food. Yellow Fever is required by Chinese law only if you are arriving from an infected area such as Africa. The original Great Wall was constructed around 200 BC, but many other walls have been built since that time that are considered to be part of the Great Wall. This is a collection of information that can be found on the Center for Disease Control and MD Travel Health specifically for China. In China, there is history everywhere.
Year of the Boar (Pig) China Vacations Offer Three “Must See” Places
Posted on March 07, 2010 in China vacations
1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Chivalrous Gallant Honest Tolerant Thirsty for knowledge Well-informed Quick tempered Avoid confrontation Naïve Sheep, Rabbits Other Boars Entertainers Lawyers Lucille Ball, Ernest Hemingway, Mahalia Jackson, Albert Schweitzer, Julie Andrews, Ronald Reagan 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 In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. 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.However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. June in China On Vacation to China? Pray For Great Insights They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. 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. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. 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. 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 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.
Year of the Rooster China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look
Posted on March 06, 2010 in China cruises
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. If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Hard-working Shrewd Bold Boastful Correct Snake, Oxen Rabbits Restaurant owner Publicist World traveler Confucius, Catherine the Great, Amelia Earhart, Rudyard Kipling, Groucho Marx 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 Dog Year of the Boar 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. Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. These rickshaw rides are often combined with a traditional tour, to give you a chance to pick up some local flavour. 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. Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. Do your research before you buy.That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. 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. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. These tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. 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. 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Habits of the Giant Panda China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun After mating, pandas retreat to their homes.Pandas love water and make their homes near a water source. They keep a small territory and don’t wander too far. 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 Beijing Tigers actually predate the league by many years, and have been the most successful team in the CBL, winning the championships three times. Mountain dwellers have reported them mischievously getting into their homes and playing with kitchen pots and pans and then discarding them in the woods later on. 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. Pandas sometimes over-drink and act drunk making it even more beloved by the Chinese people as legends surround why the panda does this.Pandas are playful and not the least bit aggressive. They play their home games in Lucheng, just south of Beijing. Pandas look like big cuddly bears, but they are actually shy reclusive bamboo eaters who would like to be left alone.Pandas are loners. They’ve also been known to befriend domestic animals such as a sheep or pig and sleep and eat together with them.Chinese people nickname the Panda “Miss Panda” since they often exhibit shy, even coy, behavior such as covering its face with a paw or ducking its head when confronted by a stranger.Notably, mother pandas protect their young as you’d expect so just like any other bear, don’t come between a mama panda and her baby. Source: The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: www.panda.org.cn . If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception. The Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base points out, however, that over 50% of a panda’s day is spent eating, over 40% is spent sleeping, so whatever is left over is devoted to play.In the spring, for a mere three months, older pandas of at least 7 years, search each other out for the mating season. They also don’t have rigid schedules, eating, sleeping and playing whenever and wherever the mood strikes them. 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. Although they appear to have been carnivorous at some point in their evolution, they adapted to eating only plants – and only bamboo – but retain a solitary nature unlike other herbivores. china vacations Bejing Yangtze River Cruises China Packages
Year of the Ox China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities
Posted on March 06, 2010 in Tours china
They play their home games in Lucheng, just south 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. Alert Strong leadership Demanding Stubborn Methodical Dislike failure Make great parents Snakes, Roosters Sheep Surgeon General Hair Stylist Walt Disney, Clark Gable, Richard Nixon, Johann Sebastian Bach, Charles Chaplin, Vincent Van Gogh 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 If you are a fan of sports, there is no greater trip than a China vacation. 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. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. The Chinese Baseball League began operation in 2002, and has enjoyed a lot of success since its inception. 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. 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. 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 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. January in China China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades Let it be known, however, that it is most certainly cold! OK, your wimpy guide might be overdoing things. Ah, here we are in the peak of winter. 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. It's actually a dry cold across the north that does allow you to get out and do things, as long as you're well insulated. In fact, it is a really nice time to see China. You'll have cooler temps, but it can be quite comfortable for walking and sight-seeing. In China, you will have the most original vacation out of all of your friends. But January is not all bad. Vacationing in China offers you the best use of your vacation time.Brrr. But in the south, it's actually not too bad. Across central China, the weather is a little more uncomfortable because of the dampness. 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.
Fuxing Road Walking Tour China on Vacation Means Three Must-See Cities
Posted on March 06, 2010 in China tour package
If you have booked a tour in China, this can be problematic. A great way to see a bit of Shanghai off the beaten tourist path and do a little off-the-the-beaten path shopping, is to take a nice walk down Fuxing Road. Where to start: begin your walking tour at the intersection of Ulumuqi (pronounced "woo loo moo chee") and Fuxing (pronounced "foo shing") Roads. How much time to set aside: at least 2-3 hours to enjoy this lovely stroll down one of Shanghai's most beautiful French Concession streets. If you prefer not to deal with a travel agent, you can contact the airlines directly. When to go: May through September is the best time because the Plane trees, planted by the French at the turn of the century, are in full green leaf. How to get there: jump in a taxi and say "woo-loo-moo-chee loo, foo-shing loo". Many airlines have partnerships with hotel providers and tour operators, and can either book you directly for the entirety of your package, or can at least direct you to their partner for more information. You can also enquire with the airline about the availability of last minute saver fares to China, which would be substantially less expensive, but would require you to be on standby for a flight that you might not end up taking. Lu ("loo") means road in Mandarin Chinese. Start on the north side of Fuxing Road and go west. Shanghai street signs are well marked in both Chinese and English and conveniently give directions (north, south, east or west) as well. Year of the Ox Vacationing In China Offers Everything However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Among the many things to see are the Great Wall, a series of structures that have survived for centuries and long ago, kept marauding invaders from attacking Chinese cities; the Xi’an Terracotta Warriors, discovered less than fifty years ago by a farmer trying to drill a new water well, and featuring over eight thousand individual figures; and the Forbidden City, a former Imperial Palace that got its name from the days when no one could leave or enter it without the approval of the Emperor.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Alert Strong leadership Demanding Stubborn Methodical Dislike failure Make great parents Snakes, Roosters Sheep Surgeon General Hair Stylist Walt Disney, Clark Gable, Richard Nixon, Johann Sebastian Bach, Charles Chaplin, Vincent Van Gogh 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 China vacations might not have the popular appeal of some destinations, but there are some truly wonderful sights to behold in China. china vacations China Packages Yangtze River Cruises Bejing
Year of the Rat China Vacation Packages worth a Hard Look
Posted on March 06, 2010 in China homes
Today, it stands as a major tourist attraction and main Taoist prayer site, and the surrounding parks are popular spots for Tai Chi practitioners and joggers. After the construction was completed, the building changed hands many times, being used by different groups and religions over the centuries. Even if you are not among the faithful of these religions, there is much beauty to be found in the buildings and surrounding grounds, and a fascinating history as well.If your birthday falls in these months, and you're not sure where you land, use this website to find your zodiac sign. Imaginative Charming Generous to loved ones Hard-working Quick-tempered Critical Dragons, Monkeys Horses Writer Critic Publicist Charlotte Bronte, Truman Capote, Catherine I, Wolfgang Mozart, William Shakespeare, George Washington, Plato, Peter Tchaikovsky. 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 If you are interested in history and religion, you should go on vacation to China. Today, it once again operates as a Taoist temple, and inspires those who visit it. However, since we're talking about the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the New Year can be any time between January and February. It was built in the eight century, under the Emperorship of the Tang Dynasty. The Temple of Heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and consists of a group of buildings used by Taoists throughout the years, and constructed in the 1400s. The White Horse Temple is one of the most important Buddhist structures in China. Built around 70 AD, the White Horse Temple would be the first Buddhist temple in the country. There, you will find an amazing history of religion that you could easily lose yourself in study of. It was closed down and abandoned during the Cultural Revolution and following Communist rise to power, but it was kept in good condition. While you are on vacation to China, you should take the time to visit these sites. The White Cloud Temple is a Taoist temple that is located in Beijing, and it is one of the great Ancestral Courts in the study of Taoism. Buddhism was introduced to China in this time by the Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, who sent emissaries to India to learn about their religion. The horse that bore the messengers from India was white, and so when the temple was constructed, it was named for the animal that carried the message of Buddhism into China. 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 *For the sake of simplicity, I have noted the years per the Gregorian calendar. Despite its Taoist roots, it was originally used as a site to make prayers to Heaven, asking for a plentiful harvest season in China. The Temple of Heaven was commissioned around the same time as the Forbidden City – both were completed at the bequest of the Yongle Emperor. The site was renovated and overhauled in the 18th century, and again just prior to the 2008 Olympic Games. But if you are on a tight time frame, here are three sights that a religious study of China must include. Terracotta Army Chinas Vacation Hot Spots Viewing Emperor Qin Shi Huang's terracotta army guarding his burial site and protecting his entry to the afterlife from the earthen side of a continuing archeological project is certainly one of the most memorable parts of any trip to 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.Just remember not to use the flash. In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. Group tours can be booked out of your hotel or even made from other cities, such as Beijing, or in your home country. Xi'An is China's first historic capital, made primary city by the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Wariors and Horses Museum is located about thirty minutes outside Xi'An proper by car. The terracotta army itself was discovered in 1974 when some farmers were digging a well. It has been said that going to China and not seeing the Terracotta Army is like going to Egypt and missing the Pyramids. However, private tours will give you the luxury of taking your time. On your own, you can take Bus #306 from the parking lot just east of the Xi'An train station. Ask your hotel for directions. Admission fee: 90rmb (US$ 11) from Mar 1 to Nov 30, 65rmb (US$ 8) from Dec 1 - Feb 28 Opening hours: 8:00am to 6:00pm Recommended time for visit: three hours Don't buy your copies of the terracotta warriors on the way in! Pit 1 is the largest and has had the most restoration done. Usually one of the farmers who was digging the well on that fateful day in 1974 is there signing books. Websites quote it is not possile to take photos but we had no trouble during our visit. It is here you can see the columns of soldiers followed by war chariots. You'll have to lug them around, so buy them on the way out. Private Tours can be booked in the same way but will cost more. Their shoveling began the unearthing of a huge burial pit belonging to the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the founding Qin dynasty emperor who unified China into a central state and also laid the foundation for the Great Wall . It is estimated that the tomb took 38 years to build, between 247 BC and 208BC, and utilized the labor of over 700,000 conscripts. After paying entrance, you will watch a 360-degree movie about the site and how the army was discovered. You'll then visit the sheds that house Pits 1-3 (named in order of discovery). The emperor died in 210 BC. The museum site is divided into three parts where one can view the three pits where ongoing reconstruction of the army is taking place. Carry on to Pits 2 and 3. Most visitors go on group or private tours. There will be hawkers willing to make you a good deal. You can buy books about history and discovery of the terracotta army in the museum bookstore. Xi'An lies to the southwest of Beijing. It is approximately a one-hour flight, or an overnight train ride from Beijing. The site was made a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1987.A visit to the terracotta army is made from Xi'An (pronounced She-ahn), the capital of Shaanxi province.
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