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It is particularly pleasant to visit on a hot summer’s evening, when ablaze in the coloured lighting. Despite the reconstruction the street is still impressive for its architecture and the ambience of old China it creates. At the end of the walk is the Dongguan Ferry Landing on the banks of the canal. The resident monks follow a very strict discipline, and offer free entry to visitors to help retain their independence. There are two ways of getting to Gaomin Temple – directly to the gate, or take Yangzijiang Road then a short walk along the old canal to a ferryman who will pole the visitor across for one yuan. The park’s main attraction is the lake itself, situated at the southern end closest to the city center, spanned by the impressive and oft-photographed Five Pavilions Bridge. Slender West Lake also contains an impressive collection of penjing (in Japanese - bonsai ), with some truly ancient examples of trees trained in miniature. The museum is closed Mondays. A large and impressive residential complex displaying many domestic artifacts is interspersed with traditional garden landscapes and imagery. In the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Yangzhou was one of the great cities of China. Yangzhou has long been a popular destination for domestic tourists, and now an increasing number of foreigners also visit each year. Tours regularly stop there, and wander the expansive open space.It is the largest city square in the world, and is surrounded by such wonders as the Heavenly Gate to the Forbidden City, and several museums. Major attractions of the city include: Slender West Lake The sprawling park that contains the aptly-named lake is set on the site of the original Yangzhou settlement just to the north of the old city. An easy park walk goes in both directions along the canal. Yangzhou Museum This impressive museum complex is to the west of the city - take the No. This stretch of the famous waterway has been modified and renovated for the tourist, with murals depicting the long history of its use. A street of recently renovated traditional buildings, it is a mix of souvenir shops, eateries and points of historical interest. Yangzhou is steeped in history, having been of military significance for over two thousand years, and at the commercial heart of China during several dynasties. The other major permanent display depicts in some detail the city’s fascinating story from prehistory to the Qing. A must for those interested in Chinese history, the museum also displays many art objects and a fine collection of landscape paintings. Both ways are on bus routes or a taxi may be more convenient. It contains remnants of the Tang city walls towards its northern end. Across Wenchang Road is Yangzhou’s ultra-modern Jinghuacheng shopping mall (with the city’s only Starbucks). Gaomin Temple To the south of the city is Gaomin Temple, which while not as well known as Daming Temple to the north (with an equally imposing pagoda), offers perhaps a more authentic Chinese Buddhism experience. Yangzhou has a reputation as one of China’s most pleasant urban environments, and a stay there is sure to be pleasant and relaxing. While there are some negative impressions and events attached to it now, Tiananmen Square was meant to be a very peaceful part of Beijing. 26 bus or a taxi straight out along Wenchang Road, which bisects Yangzhou. A peaceful setting in which to catch one’s breath if the crowds are not too great. Heyuan is the best of them (although some may favour Geyuan, closer to the city center). Heyuan is located in the southeast of the old city proper, about a 30 minute walk from downtown if the visitor is so inclined. Main Attractions of an Ancient City of Commerce and Art Feb 26, 2010 Brian Cross Yangzhou lies on the northern bank of the Yangze River, three hours west of downtown Shanghai by fast train to Zhenjiang then a short bus ride across the river. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. These are just some of the best places to visit during a stay in Yangzhou - there are many others besides. For a further 40 yuan a small group can hire a boat and join the throngs for some fun on the water. Dongguan Street and the Grand Canal Ancient Ferry Landing Dongguan Street stretches about a kilometre from central Yangzhou to the eastern side of the old city and the Grand Canal . A little dilapidated now but still of interest is the White Pagoda, a monument to one of several visits to Yangzhou by Qing Emperor Qianlong. The high season entrance fee to Slender West Lake is 80 yuan. The square was designed to reflect the pride of China. Opened in 2003 and already undergoing expansion, Yangzhou Museum has a wonderful display of block printing and the calligraphy styles and trends that went with it. Like so much else of old China, Gaomin Temple is undergoing considerable reconstruction work, but retains its historical importance to the local Buddhist community. Heyuan Garden Yangzhou is famous in China for the mansions and gardens that date back to the days of the Qing when the city was awash with the wealth created by the salt trade . What to Take on Holiday to India China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun It's not likely Indian pharmacies will carry a visitor's preferred brands. Travel Medicines . India has a plentiful supply of pharmacies with many items available without prescriptions. While bags with wheels are handy they tend to be a bit useless in India because footpaths are not always footpaths - they tend to be fragmented and disappear. Good walking shoes will have the traveller gliding easily through city streets, along lanes, through rain and snow, tromping through mud, up rough mountain paths, along beach fronts and racing for the train or bus. 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. They are a tourist's best friend and savior. People who are fussy about their own particular cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer etc should take their own from home. What you take from your time in China will be vastly different, depending on which tour you take.Flexibility, patience and a sense of humor are the name of the game. Having a long list of places to visit and things to do in one day is a recipe for failure. If you must, pick one or two places to go in a day. A bag that you can swing on to your back to outwit the touts at major railway stations is a bonus. Shoes and Cosmetics Perhaps the most valuable item one can have in India is a pair of good walking/travel shoes . Most reputable hotels offer a pick-up service and for those on a cheaper budget don’t be surprised if the taxi (and I use the word taxi loosely) is a little rough around the edges. A good map of the city will come in handy and once again it’s best to get one before leaving home. If you need to be confident and know exactly what you are swallowing - take a comprehensive first aid kit from home. Expect the Unexpected Stepping out into Delhi, Calcutta, Chennai, Mumbai etc can be a bit like an emotional bungee jump – just go for it! The importance of good shoes cannot over-emphasized. There are maps available in India but sometimes they are not as detailed as one would like. Make sure they are waterproof, light and broken-in. The book shops in the major Indian cities often have good maps along with a vast array of cheap books on everything you ever wanted to read. What Luggage to Bring to India Luggage is another item to consider carefully before you leave home. Travel Shoes and Luggage Make the Difference on an Indian Holiday Feb 26, 2010 Madi Doherty Landing in any of the major Indian cities is an opportunity to practice patience, a skill that will come in handy to visitors making their way through one of the most populated countries. To avoid frustration mixed with jet lag it’s best to have organized a pick-up from the airport to pre-arranged accommodation before touching down. Those who like to travel light should at least take take pain killers, an antiseptic, good band aids and something to appease a stomach bug or soothe an over spiced tummy. 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. If you achieve one item on your list congratulate yourself on your achievement and your ability to go with the flow. Books on India to Get You in the Mood To get your self in the swing a bit of reading won’t go astray. For a good introduction to Delhi: William Dalrymple’s - City Of Djinns written in 1994. For food lovers: Madhur Jaffery’s - Climbing the Mango Trees (a memoir of a childhood in India). Contemporary India: Aravind Adiga’s - The White Tiger (Man Booker prize 2008) 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.

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Positioned strategically in central coastal China, the city's port is one of the busiest in the world. 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. Overview: Shanghai is the commercial capital of China. And, you're less likely to get rained on. Tips: Bring rain gear, you will probably see at least one wet day in Shanghai. If you're a history buff, find accommodation in the French Concession area. It can rain at all times of the year but mid-summer (July) and autumn (late September through early November) are the driest. Recommended time for visit : 4-5 days. Best time of year to visit : Autumn is probably your best bet in Shanghai. If you have booked a tour in China, this can be problematic.However, autumn usually sees clearer skies, still-warm temperatures without the overbearing humidity. Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces border Shanghai to the west and the East China Sea and the Hangzhou Bay border it to the west and south. A coastal city on the Yangtze River Delta, Shanghai is mostly flat and low. Look at Puxi from Pudong, and you're looking into Shanghai's past: the grand edifices on the Bund in what was the International Concession stand guard over the city sprawl to the west. Shanghai is China's second most-populous city after Chongqing, farther up on the Yangtze. Spend a week ducking down Shanghai's laneways full of trendy shops and restaurants, or a few days kicking back and taking it all in. It is not yet terribly hot, flowers are blooming and the trees are starting to leaf out, so there's an air of freshness. Currently estimated at 17 million, Shanghai's population fluctuates with several million migrant laborers seeking employment in the city. Getting There & Getting Around: Shanghai is a gateway into China with many international flights arriving and departing every day. Pudong , or east of the river, is the area that stretches to the sea and is full of new developments and skyscrapers. You'll really enjoy taking some walks and seeing the old lane houses and villas that still stand in the area. Where to Stay: Best-located budget lodgings in Shanghai Luxury hotels in Shanghai Other Shanghai hotel listings Maps: Shanghai area, city and street maps Metro Map More Maps If you prefer not to deal with a travel agent, you can contact the airlines directly. However, you will seldom see snow and temperatures may never reach freezing. Shanghai literally means "on the sea" in Chinese. History: While China may have a 5,000+ year-old history, Shanghai's is very short. Spring can be difficult with an occasional long winter or early wet season, although mid-April through mid-May are usually very nice. The moisture in the air makes you feel the cold right to the bone. Winters in central China feel colder than they look on the thermometer. It is also relatively easy to get around. However long you spend in Shanghai, your days will be full. Location: Shanghai sits on the Huang Pu River that feeds into the Yangtze in the central-eastern part of China. Puxi , meaning west of the river, is larger and home to the older districts of Shanghai including the former foreign concessions. Read a brief History of Shanghai to understand its dynamic, if short, past. Features: Shanghai is divided by the Huang Pu River and thus has two main parts. 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. Its short history means that there aren't as many cultural sights to see, compared to Beijing or even nearby Hangzhou . However, there is plenty to do and see in Shanghai. View Shanghai from the Puxi side, on the Bund, and you'll see a vision of Shanghai's future including the Jin Mao Tower, currently the tallest building in Shanghai, and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Happily, winters are short, starting in January in earnest and usually finishing up by the end of March. Summers are long, hot and humid, lasting from April through September/October. Read more about Getting To and Getting Around Shanghai . Essentials: Weather : Shanghai's climate is Central China climate. October in China Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement 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 festival begins on the �double fifth�, or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month on the Chinese calendar. The races are so popular, that the influence has bled over into other Asian cultures and countries. What is usually seen as a fun little event in Western culture is a much bigger deal in China. 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 different styles are usually broken up into families or sects, depending on their influence. The annual Duanwu Festival for dragon boat racing is a regular and popular holiday in China. 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. ©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Martial arts. This means that, on the Western calendar, the date can fluctuate wildly, being as early as May and as late as June. 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.

Tags: shanghai, china, day, city, history

Lining the Huangpu River, The Bund stretches approximately one mile along the riverbank, directly opposing the New Shanghai of Pudong with its glass skyscrapers and dazzling neon light displays. 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 tree-lined streets seem to be lifted directly out of Paris, as cafes, bakeries, and boutiques line many of the avenues. On certain nights, the street becomes a pedestrian-only pathway stretching from People’s Park to the banks of the Huangpu River. People’s Square- Central Art Hub of Shanghai A central meeting hub adjacent to Nanjing Road, People’s Square is the site of Shanghai’s municipal government. There, you will find an amazing history of religion that you could easily lose yourself in study of. People’s Square provides excellent access to the surrounding malls and shopping concourses, Nanjing Road, and several museums. Yuyuan Gardens and Bazaar- Traditional Chinese Design and Architecture The largest of Shanghai’s traditional gardens, Yuyuan Garden features traditional garden layouts, a grand rock wall, pools, and several gazebos and covered walkway. These sites can easily be visited in a single day The Bund- Shanghai's Historic Waterfront An architectural masterpiece from the late 19th century as Shanghai became an important banking capital. It was built in the eight century, under the Emperorship of the Tang Dynasty. Today, it once again operates as a Taoist temple, and inspires those who visit it. 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 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. Amid the Tudor-style houses and Art Deco buildings are the area’s must-sees: Dr. The White Horse Temple is one of the most important Buddhist structures in China. As the modern city expands on Pudong, the past is still as visible and vibrant as ever in Old Shanghai. Many traditional examples of early 20th century architecture can be found here, including The Customs House with its impressive clock face and the HSBC headquarters famously guarded by two bronze lion statues, polished by years of visitors rubbing their paws for good luck. Sun Yat-sen’s former residence and Fuxing Park where locals meet to practice everything from fan dancing and tai chi to mahjong. If you are interested in history and religion, you should go on vacation to China. Located in Eastern China where the Yangtze Rive meets the East China Sea, a few hours flight from Beijing , Shanghai is an easily accessible destination for travelers and the perfect starting point or final destination on a trip to China. But if you are on a tight time frame, here are three sights that a religious study of China must include. 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.One of the most crowded places in Old Shanghai, be sure to arrive early in the morning before the gardens are bazaar are overrun with tourists. Outside the garden walls is the bustling Yuyuan bazaar and tea house, modeled after the traditional Chinese architectural style. As the years progressed, the French Concession became home to many British and American merchants, and would continue to expand its borders to include many Russian émigrés. The Bund comes alive at night as visitors marvel at the picturesque Pudong skyline of modern Shanghai across the river. Nanjing Road- Shopping and DIning Paradise Called the “Number 1 Commercial Street in China," Nanjing Road is a shopper’s paradise with over 600 shops selling everything from food and traditional clothing, to modern amenities and street fashion. Built around 70 AD, the White Horse Temple would be the first Buddhist temple in the country. 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. The site was renovated and overhauled in the 18th century, and again just prior to the 2008 Olympic Games. Barter for souvenirs or grab a coffee at Starbucks and watch the crowds pass by. The French Concession- The Paris of the East Established in 1849, the French Concession began as a settlement for French ex-patriots now making a living in Shanghais, most notably in the banking industry. 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 Dragon Screen is a highlight of the garden. Spend a Day Visiting Historic Shanghai Feb 26, 2010 Rachel West Shanghai offers a perfect blend of old world culture and new modern industrialism in China’s largest city. Once a horse racing track, this large urban space is now home to the Shanghai Grand Theatre, Shanghai Art Museum, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. It was closed down and abandoned during the Cultural Revolution and following Communist rise to power, but it was kept in good condition. After the construction was completed, the building changed hands many times, being used by different groups and religions over the centuries. Peppered with restaurants and bars, Nanjing Road is a must-see destination for any visitor to Shanghai and an excellent place to stock up on traditional souvenirs and the latest fashion trends. 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. Despite its Taoist roots, it was originally used as a site to make prayers to Heaven, asking for a plentiful harvest season in China. While you are on vacation to China, you should take the time to visit these sites. The Chinese Lantern Festival China Vacation Sports Lots of Fun It is supposed to be the first day of the new year when the full moon can be seen. The Last Day of the Lunar New Year Feb 26, 2010 Camilla Cheung Often confused with the Mid-Autumn Festival in the fall, the Chinese Lantern Festival is actually the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations and falls on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year. To avenge himself on the villagers, the Jade Emperor planned to destroy the town by fire from heaven. Measuring dozens of feet tall and lit by electric lamps from within, these lanterns are shaped like animals, pagodas, and mythical heroes. Legends of the Chinese Lantern Festival There are many stories associated with the Chinese Lantern Festival, but one of the most popular of them has to do with the immortal Jade Emperor of Chinese folklore. According to this legend, the Jade Emperor was angry with a certain village for hunting and killing his favorite goose, which had flown down to earth from heaven. They are boiled, and then served in a sweet soup flavored with rock sugar and ginger. In some cities, huge lanterns are built by master craftsmen. On the day of the planned attack, the villagers hung red lanterns up in the village, lit bonfires, and set off firecrackers. Many an hour can be spent pouring over these treasures, and marvelling at the vastness of the collection.After that, every year on the anniversary of the thwarted attack, the villagers lit lanterns to celebrate their narrow escape from death. Another tour-worthy site is China�s Treasure Houses. This is a display of the treasures that were owned by royalty in the Qing era, and the beauty and value of their royal items can dazzle. These round dumplings are filled with sesame-seed paste, peanuts, and other fillings. However, the Jade Emperor’s daughter had compassion on the village and told the villagers about her father’s plan. The villagers, terrified, devised a plan to trick the Jade Emperor into sparing them. The Lantern Festival is also called the Yuan Xiao Festival in Chinese. This day marks the last day of the Lunar New Year holiday in early spring (also known as the Spring Festival), and is therefore an occasion for festivities and celebration, before people have to go back to work after the holiday. Celebrating the Lantern Festival On the day of the Lantern Festival, people will go out to eat with friends or family, and paper lanterns will be hung outside temples and other buildings. In China, many buildings and even street lights are hung with red lanterns in celebration of the Chinese New Year. People will light fireworks and firecrackers, as well as sky lanterns that, after being lit, float up into the sky like hot air balloons. Many people who celebrate the Lantern Festival eat the traditional glutinous rice dumplings – known as tang yuan . When the Jade Emperor’s Imperial Troops arrived at the village, it appeared that the village was already on fire, so they left without harming a single villager. Bejing Great Wall of China china vacations Yangtze River Cruises

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Heyuan is the best of them (although some may favour Geyuan, closer to the city center). Heyuan is located in the southeast of the old city proper, about a 30 minute walk from downtown if the visitor is so inclined. Across Wenchang Road is Yangzhou’s ultra-modern Jinghuacheng shopping mall (with the city’s only Starbucks). Gaomin Temple To the south of the city is Gaomin Temple, which while not as well known as Daming Temple to the north (with an equally imposing pagoda), offers perhaps a more authentic Chinese Buddhism experience. It is particularly pleasant to visit on a hot summer’s evening, when ablaze in the coloured lighting. The park’s main attraction is the lake itself, situated at the southern end closest to the city center, spanned by the impressive and oft-photographed Five Pavilions Bridge. Slender West Lake also contains an impressive collection of penjing (in Japanese - bonsai ), with some truly ancient examples of trees trained in miniature. Opened in 2003 and already undergoing expansion, Yangzhou Museum has a wonderful display of block printing and the calligraphy styles and trends that went with it. The Terracotta Warriors were discovered near Xi�an in 1974, and includes over 8,000 figures. A street of recently renovated traditional buildings, it is a mix of souvenir shops, eateries and points of historical interest. A little dilapidated now but still of interest is the White Pagoda, a monument to one of several visits to Yangzhou by Qing Emperor Qianlong. The high season entrance fee to Slender West Lake is 80 yuan. A peaceful setting in which to catch one’s breath if the crowds are not too great. Yangzhou is steeped in history, having been of military significance for over two thousand years, and at the commercial heart of China during several dynasties. 26 bus or a taxi straight out along Wenchang Road, which bisects Yangzhou. A large and impressive residential complex displaying many domestic artifacts is interspersed with traditional garden landscapes and imagery. Major attractions of the city include: Slender West Lake The sprawling park that contains the aptly-named lake is set on the site of the original Yangzhou settlement just to the north of the old city. Like so much else of old China, Gaomin Temple is undergoing considerable reconstruction work, but retains its historical importance to the local Buddhist community. Heyuan Garden Yangzhou is famous in China for the mansions and gardens that date back to the days of the Qing when the city was awash with the wealth created by the salt trade . In the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Yangzhou was one of the great cities of China. Yangzhou has long been a popular destination for domestic tourists, and now an increasing number of foreigners also visit each year. The other major permanent display depicts in some detail the city’s fascinating story from prehistory to the Qing. A must for those interested in Chinese history, the museum also displays many art objects and a fine collection of landscape paintings. This stretch of the famous waterway has been modified and renovated for the tourist, with murals depicting the long history of its use. The museum that houses them is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and definitely worth a trip. Main Attractions of an Ancient City of Commerce and Art Feb 26, 2010 Brian Cross Yangzhou lies on the northern bank of the Yangze River, three hours west of downtown Shanghai by fast train to Zhenjiang then a short bus ride across the river. 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. Yangzhou has a reputation as one of China’s most pleasant urban environments, and a stay there is sure to be pleasant and relaxing. In China, there is history everywhere. The museum is closed Mondays. The most famous examples include the Great Wall of China, and the Terracotta Warriors. Despite the reconstruction the street is still impressive for its architecture and the ambience of old China it creates. At the end of the walk is the Dongguan Ferry Landing on the banks of the canal. The resident monks follow a very strict discipline, and offer free entry to visitors to help retain their independence. There are two ways of getting to Gaomin Temple – directly to the gate, or take Yangzijiang Road then a short walk along the old canal to a ferryman who will pole the visitor across for one yuan. Both ways are on bus routes or a taxi may be more convenient. An easy park walk goes in both directions along the canal. Yangzhou Museum This impressive museum complex is to the west of the city - take the No. It contains remnants of the Tang city walls towards its northern end. 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. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. These are just some of the best places to visit during a stay in Yangzhou - there are many others besides. For a further 40 yuan a small group can hire a boat and join the throngs for some fun on the water. Dongguan Street and the Grand Canal Ancient Ferry Landing Dongguan Street stretches about a kilometre from central Yangzhou to the eastern side of the old city and the Grand Canal . What to Take on Holiday to India China Family Vacation Offers Plenty to Work With Good walking shoes will have the traveller gliding easily through city streets, along lanes, through rain and snow, tromping through mud, up rough mountain paths, along beach fronts and racing for the train or bus. 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 tours take you to places in China that you normally would never get a chance to see. Tour groups love to stop at sites like these, and often offer group tours through some of the buildings and parkways. A bag that you can swing on to your back to outwit the touts at major railway stations is a bonus. Shoes and Cosmetics Perhaps the most valuable item one can have in India is a pair of good walking/travel shoes . Of course, you are limited by the speed of your rickshaw runner, and the distance he can go before he tires out. The thing to remember with China vacation tours is that they are not all created equal. These rickshaw rides are often combined with a traditional tour, to give you a chance to pick up some local flavour. It's not likely Indian pharmacies will carry a visitor's preferred brands. Travel Medicines . India has a plentiful supply of pharmacies with many items available without prescriptions. If you achieve one item on your list congratulate yourself on your achievement and your ability to go with the flow. Books on India to Get You in the Mood To get your self in the swing a bit of reading won’t go astray. For a good introduction to Delhi: William Dalrymple’s - City Of Djinns written in 1994. For food lovers: Madhur Jaffery’s - Climbing the Mango Trees (a memoir of a childhood in India). Contemporary India: Aravind Adiga’s - The White Tiger (Man Booker prize 2008) 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. Today, the temple is a popular tourist destination, both for the wonders of the temple itself, and for the grounds that surround it. If you need to be confident and know exactly what you are swallowing - take a comprehensive first aid kit from home. Expect the Unexpected Stepping out into Delhi, Calcutta, Chennai, Mumbai etc can be a bit like an emotional bungee jump – just go for it! Do your research before you buy. Another big appeal to the tour groups are the restaurants you will visit. Travel Shoes and Luggage Make the Difference on an Indian Holiday Feb 26, 2010 Madi Doherty Landing in any of the major Indian cities is an opportunity to practice patience, a skill that will come in handy to visitors making their way through one of the most populated countries. To avoid frustration mixed with jet lag it’s best to have organized a pick-up from the airport to pre-arranged accommodation before touching down. The importance of good shoes cannot over-emphasized. These conveyances should be used more for their odd appeal than their ability to get you around. Those who like to travel light should at least take take pain killers, an antiseptic, good band aids and something to appease a stomach bug or soothe an over spiced tummy. Flexibility, patience and a sense of humor are the name of the game. Having a long list of places to visit and things to do in one day is a recipe for failure. If you must, pick one or two places to go in a day. One of the great sights that you might be able to view in China includes the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. It is a massive set of buildings and green spaces, covering nearly three million square meters of land. They are a tourist's best friend and savior. People who are fussy about their own particular cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer etc should take their own from home. And there are some routes that are simply not rickshaw friendly. 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. Make sure they are waterproof, light and broken-in. Everything from Chinese tea rooms to fancy full-course restaurants can be experienced this way. These grounds tend to attract those looking to get some exercise outdoors, including everything from sparring martial artists to slow but steady joggers. Most reputable hotels offer a pick-up service and for those on a cheaper budget don’t be surprised if the taxi (and I use the word taxi loosely) is a little rough around the edges. A good map of the city will come in handy and once again it’s best to get one before leaving home. 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. The book shops in the major Indian cities often have good maps along with a vast array of cheap books on everything you ever wanted to read. What Luggage to Bring to India Luggage is another item to consider carefully before you leave home. A great way to see the sights in between the sites is to hire a rickshaw. There are maps available in India but sometimes they are not as detailed as one would like. That can include narrow passages that will be much more visually interesting that the usual freeways. While bags with wheels are handy they tend to be a bit useless in India because footpaths are not always footpaths - they tend to be fragmented and disappear. This temple, built in the 1400s, was a place for prayers for plentiful harvest for the Chinese people.

Tags: city, yangzhou, china, great, tour

Barter for souvenirs or grab a coffee at Starbucks and watch the crowds pass by. The French Concession- The Paris of the East Established in 1849, the French Concession began as a settlement for French ex-patriots now making a living in Shanghais, most notably in the banking industry. These sites can easily be visited in a single day The Bund- Shanghai's Historic Waterfront An architectural masterpiece from the late 19th century as Shanghai became an important banking capital. The tree-lined streets seem to be lifted directly out of Paris, as cafes, bakeries, and boutiques line many of the avenues. One of the most crowded places in Old Shanghai, be sure to arrive early in the morning before the gardens are bazaar are overrun with tourists. Outside the garden walls is the bustling Yuyuan bazaar and tea house, modeled after the traditional Chinese architectural style. On certain nights, the street becomes a pedestrian-only pathway stretching from People’s Park to the banks of the Huangpu River. People’s Square- Central Art Hub of Shanghai A central meeting hub adjacent to Nanjing Road, People’s Square is the site of Shanghai’s municipal government. Amid the Tudor-style houses and Art Deco buildings are the area’s must-sees: Dr. The Bund comes alive at night as visitors marvel at the picturesque Pudong skyline of modern Shanghai across the river. Nanjing Road- Shopping and DIning Paradise Called the “Number 1 Commercial Street in China," Nanjing Road is a shopper’s paradise with over 600 shops selling everything from food and traditional clothing, to modern amenities and street fashion. Spend a Day Visiting Historic Shanghai Feb 26, 2010 Rachel West Shanghai offers a perfect blend of old world culture and new modern industrialism in China’s largest city. As the years progressed, the French Concession became home to many British and American merchants, and would continue to expand its borders to include many Russian émigrés. People’s Square provides excellent access to the surrounding malls and shopping concourses, Nanjing Road, and several museums. Yuyuan Gardens and Bazaar- Traditional Chinese Design and Architecture The largest of Shanghai’s traditional gardens, Yuyuan Garden features traditional garden layouts, a grand rock wall, pools, and several gazebos and covered walkway. Ever since that time, and until the 1600s, the Chinese have added, maintained, lengthened and fortified the walls that guard their lands. Once a horse racing track, this large urban space is now home to the Shanghai Grand Theatre, Shanghai Art Museum, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Lining the Huangpu River, The Bund stretches approximately one mile along the riverbank, directly opposing the New Shanghai of Pudong with its glass skyscrapers and dazzling neon light displays. Peppered with restaurants and bars, Nanjing Road is a must-see destination for any visitor to Shanghai and an excellent place to stock up on traditional souvenirs and the latest fashion trends. The first piece was built around 200 BC to protect a relatively small area. At its height, the wall stood nearly four thousand miles long. As the modern city expands on Pudong, the past is still as visible and vibrant as ever in Old Shanghai. Sun Yat-sen’s former residence and Fuxing Park where locals meet to practice everything from fan dancing and tai chi to mahjong. The Great Wall of China should really be known as the Great Walls of China. 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.Many traditional examples of early 20th century architecture can be found here, including The Customs House with its impressive clock face and the HSBC headquarters famously guarded by two bronze lion statues, polished by years of visitors rubbing their paws for good luck. Located in Eastern China where the Yangtze Rive meets the East China Sea, a few hours flight from Beijing , Shanghai is an easily accessible destination for travelers and the perfect starting point or final destination on a trip to China. The Dragon Screen is a highlight of the garden. The Chinese Lantern Festival Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement After that, every year on the anniversary of the thwarted attack, the villagers lit lanterns to celebrate their narrow escape from death. In the end, finding China vacation packages means doing some legwork and some research. The Lantern Festival is also called the Yuan Xiao Festival in Chinese. This day marks the last day of the Lunar New Year holiday in early spring (also known as the Spring Festival), and is therefore an occasion for festivities and celebration, before people have to go back to work after the holiday. Celebrating the Lantern Festival On the day of the Lantern Festival, people will go out to eat with friends or family, and paper lanterns will be hung outside temples and other buildings. People will light fireworks and firecrackers, as well as sky lanterns that, after being lit, float up into the sky like hot air balloons. Many people who celebrate the Lantern Festival eat the traditional glutinous rice dumplings – known as tang yuan . On the day of the planned attack, the villagers hung red lanterns up in the village, lit bonfires, and set off firecrackers. 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.To avenge himself on the villagers, the Jade Emperor planned to destroy the town by fire from heaven. In China, many buildings and even street lights are hung with red lanterns in celebration of the Chinese New Year. When the Jade Emperor’s Imperial Troops arrived at the village, it appeared that the village was already on fire, so they left without harming a single villager. They are boiled, and then served in a sweet soup flavored with rock sugar and ginger. In some cities, huge lanterns are built by master craftsmen. These round dumplings are filled with sesame-seed paste, peanuts, and other fillings. It is supposed to be the first day of the new year when the full moon can be seen. Measuring dozens of feet tall and lit by electric lamps from within, these lanterns are shaped like animals, pagodas, and mythical heroes. Legends of the Chinese Lantern Festival There are many stories associated with the Chinese Lantern Festival, but one of the most popular of them has to do with the immortal Jade Emperor of Chinese folklore. According to this legend, the Jade Emperor was angry with a certain village for hunting and killing his favorite goose, which had flown down to earth from heaven. The Last Day of the Lunar New Year Feb 26, 2010 Camilla Cheung Often confused with the Mid-Autumn Festival in the fall, the Chinese Lantern Festival is actually the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations and falls on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year. However, the Jade Emperor’s daughter had compassion on the village and told the villagers about her father’s plan. The villagers, terrified, devised a plan to trick the Jade Emperor into sparing them. Bejing vacation in China Yangtze River Cruises Great Wall of China

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http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/04/content_19521858.htm www.china.org.cn The construction of six new downtown parks will be completed this year and entrance to these parks will be free, officials from the capital's Forestry Bureau announced at a conference on Tuesday. 2010-03-04 13:41:19.0 Six new parks to be built in downtown Beijing parks ,downtown Beijing,China, Xuanwu, tour Six new parks to be built in downtown Beijing Six new parks to be built in downtown Beijing 1007 7074061 Highlights /enpproperty--> The construction of six new downtown parks will be completed this year and entrance to these parks will be free, officials from the capital's Forestry Bureau announced at a conference on Tuesday. The parks cover 350 hectares in total and are to be located in Dongcheng, Chongwen, Xuanwu, Shijingshan and Fengtai districts. Again, the trip you are looking to take is not one that many people take, so your selections may be somewhat limited. They are part of a campaign initiated by the bureau in a drive to make Beijing a city where citizens can find a park every 500 meters. According to the bureau, there are 180 parks in downtown Beijing and 34 wild parks in the suburbs, among which 19 suburban parks have opened free to the public since last year and another 14 will begin to offer free entrance on May 1, 2010. If that avenue fails to turn up the travel plans that you are looking for, you can enlist the services of a local travel agent. But a travel agent will have access to a system that will allow them to look up information for you about other departure areas, available tours, and can give you some information about the prices for the different trips that are on the market. A snapshot of Beijing snacks Chinese Vacations Offer Historical Amazement With strong local flavors, Beijing's snacks attract almost all visitors.Snacks of Beijing can fall into three varieties: Han, Hui and imperial snacks, which are generally prepared by steaming, deep frying, frying in shallow oil, and instant boiling. With strong local flavors, Beijing's snacks attract almost all visitors.Beijng snacks:Pea Flour Cake (Wandouhuang 豌豆黄) [Photo by Jia Yunlong]" width="188"/> http://www.china.org.cn/travel/2010-03/03/content_19510286.htm www.china.org.cn Beijing has a time-honored history of producing various kinds of snacks. Some people regard snacks of Beijing as 'living fossils.' [Photo by Jia Yunlong]" width="188"/> 2010-03-03 10:19:40.0 A snapshot of Beijing snacks Beijing snacks, China,tour, noddle, Beijing snacks Beijing snacks 1007 7082651 High Definition Photos /enpproperty-->   The other Imperial holdover that will aid in your search for relaxing but stimulating sites is the Summer Palace. With strong local flavors, Beijing's snacks attract almost all visitors.Beijing snacks: Pastry Made of Soy Bean Flour (Ludagun 驴打滚) [Photo by Jia Yunlong]" border="" height="141" hspace="" id="12383110" md5="" relativeid="12383112" relativepic="/data/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100303/000d87ad3cdd0cf807fe50.jpg" sourcedescription="编辑提供的本地文件" sourcename="本地文件" src="http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1007/20100303/000d87ad3cdd0cf807fe4f.jpg" title="Beijing has a time-honored history of producing various kinds of snacks. With strong local flavors, Beijing's snacks attract almost all visitors.Snacks of Beijing can fall into three varieties: Han, Hui and imperial snacks, which are generally prepared by steaming, deep frying, frying in shallow oil, and instant boiling. With strong local flavors, Beijing's snacks attract almost all visitors.Snacks of Beijing can fall into three varieties: Han, Hui and imperial snacks, which are generally prepared by steaming, deep frying, frying in shallow oil, and instant boiling. Some people regard snacks of Beijing as 'living fossils.' [Photo by Jia Yunlong]" width="188"/> Bejing China Packages vacation in China Great Wall of China

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The entrance fee is 40 yuan. These are just some of the best places to visit during a stay in Yangzhou - there are many others besides. The Terracotta Warriors of Xi�an are an amazing sight. In the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Yangzhou was one of the great cities of China. Yangzhou has long been a popular destination for domestic tourists, and now an increasing number of foreigners also visit each year. Across Wenchang Road is Yangzhou’s ultra-modern Jinghuacheng shopping mall (with the city’s only Starbucks). Gaomin Temple To the south of the city is Gaomin Temple, which while not as well known as Daming Temple to the north (with an equally imposing pagoda), offers perhaps a more authentic Chinese Buddhism experience. Yangzhou is steeped in history, having been of military significance for over two thousand years, and at the commercial heart of China during several dynasties. It is particularly pleasant to visit on a hot summer’s evening, when ablaze in the coloured lighting. Despite the reconstruction the street is still impressive for its architecture and the ambience of old China it creates. At the end of the walk is the Dongguan Ferry Landing on the banks of the canal. A large and impressive residential complex displaying many domestic artifacts is interspersed with traditional garden landscapes and imagery. A peaceful setting in which to catch one’s breath if the crowds are not too great. The park’s main attraction is the lake itself, situated at the southern end closest to the city center, spanned by the impressive and oft-photographed Five Pavilions Bridge. Slender West Lake also contains an impressive collection of penjing (in Japanese - bonsai ), with some truly ancient examples of trees trained in miniature. For a further 40 yuan a small group can hire a boat and join the throngs for some fun on the water. Dongguan Street and the Grand Canal Ancient Ferry Landing Dongguan Street stretches about a kilometre from central Yangzhou to the eastern side of the old city and the Grand Canal . It contains remnants of the Tang city walls towards its northern end. 26 bus or a taxi straight out along Wenchang Road, which bisects Yangzhou. Opened in 2003 and already undergoing expansion, Yangzhou Museum has a wonderful display of block printing and the calligraphy styles and trends that went with it. Not all of the warriors have been excavated, but the ones that have been are miraculously well maintained. A little dilapidated now but still of interest is the White Pagoda, a monument to one of several visits to Yangzhou by Qing Emperor Qianlong. The high season entrance fee to Slender West Lake is 80 yuan. 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. 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. The other major permanent display depicts in some detail the city’s fascinating story from prehistory to the Qing. A must for those interested in Chinese history, the museum also displays many art objects and a fine collection of landscape paintings. Both ways are on bus routes or a taxi may be more convenient. The museum is closed Mondays. An easy park walk goes in both directions along the canal. Yangzhou Museum This impressive museum complex is to the west of the city - take the No. Like so much else of old China, Gaomin Temple is undergoing considerable reconstruction work, but retains its historical importance to the local Buddhist community. Heyuan Garden Yangzhou is famous in China for the mansions and gardens that date back to the days of the Qing when the city was awash with the wealth created by the salt trade . This stretch of the famous waterway has been modified and renovated for the tourist, with murals depicting the long history of its use. The resident monks follow a very strict discipline, and offer free entry to visitors to help retain their independence. There are two ways of getting to Gaomin Temple – directly to the gate, or take Yangzijiang Road then a short walk along the old canal to a ferryman who will pole the visitor across for one yuan. Major attractions of the city include: Slender West Lake The sprawling park that contains the aptly-named lake is set on the site of the original Yangzhou settlement just to the north of the old city. 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. Main Attractions of an Ancient City of Commerce and Art Feb 26, 2010 Brian Cross Yangzhou lies on the northern bank of the Yangze River, three hours west of downtown Shanghai by fast train to Zhenjiang then a short bus ride across the river. Yangzhou has a reputation as one of China’s most pleasant urban environments, and a stay there is sure to be pleasant and relaxing. 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.Heyuan is the best of them (although some may favour Geyuan, closer to the city center). Heyuan is located in the southeast of the old city proper, about a 30 minute walk from downtown if the visitor is so inclined. A street of recently renovated traditional buildings, it is a mix of souvenir shops, eateries and points of historical interest. What to Take on Holiday to India China for Vacation Offers Serenity in Spades Good walking shoes will have you gliding through city streets, along lanes, through rain and snow, tromping through mud, up rough mountain paths, along beach fronts and racing for the train or bus. Make sure they are waterproof, light and broken-in. Flexibility, patience and a sense of humor are the name of the game. Having a long list of places to visit and things to do in one day is a recipe for failure. If you must, pick one or two places to go in a day. There are maps available in India but sometimes they are not as detailed as one would like. Most reputable hotels offer a pick-up service and for those on a cheaper budget don’t be surprised if the taxi (and I use the word taxi loosely) is a little rough around the edges. A good map of the city will come in handy and once again it’s best to get one before you leave home. This former Imperial Palace is now home to the Palace Museum. While bags with wheels are handy they tend to be a bit useless in India because footpaths are not always footpaths - they tend to be fragmented and disappear. If you achieve one item on your list congratulate yourself on your achievement and your ability to go with the flow. Books on India to Get You in the Mood To get your self in the swing a bit of reading won’t go astray. For a good introduction to Delhi: William Dalrymple’s - City Of Djinns written in 1994 . For food lovers: Madhur Jaffery’s - Climbing the Mango Trees (a memoir of a childhood in India). Contemporary India: Aravind Adiga’s - The White Tiger (Man Booker prize 2008) Going through the Heavenly Gate, the Forbidden City is a truly peaceful and relaxing place. Travel Shoes and Luggage Make the Difference Feb 26, 2010 Madi Doherty Landing in any of the major Indian cities is an opportunity to practice patience, a skill that will come in handy as you make your way through one of the most populated countries. To avoid frustration mixed with jet lag it’s best to have organized a pick-up from the airport to your accommodation before you touch down. A bag that you can swing on to your back to outwit the touts at major railway stations is a bonus. Shoes Perhaps the most valuable item you can take with you is a pair of walking/travel shoes . They will be your best friends, your savior. Cosmetics If you are thingy about your cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer etc – take your own. If you like to travel light at least take take pain killers, an antiseptic, good band aids and something to appease a stomach bug or soothe an over spiced tummy. 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.Do not plan on being able to get your particular brands. Travel Medicines . India has a plentiful supply of pharmacies with many items available without prescriptions. Within its walls are a number of peaceful gardens and yards, hidden in a network of pathways. The book shops in the major Indian cities often have good maps along with a vast array of cheap books on everything you ever wanted to read. Luggage Luggage is another item to consider carefully before you leave home. The importance of good shoes cannot over estimated. If you need to be confident and know exactly what you are swallowing - take a comprehensive first aid kit from home. Expect the Unexpected Stepping out into Delhi, Calcutta, Chennai, Mumbai etc can be a bit like an emotional bungee jump – just go for it!

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