Dandong Culture

"Magpie Dress" in Yunnan In the Yunnan local dialect, a small intermontane plain is called a bazi. Baofengba in Puning County is a village inhabited by the Hans. When I saw Luo Meiying, the township leader, she wore a typical peasant dress: a black cloth scarf wrapped apron on her head, a white tight jacket covered with a b ...
Chinese Cheongsam (QIPAO)
The cheongsam is a female dress with distinctive Chinese features and enjoys a growing popularity in the international world of high fashion.The name "cheongsam," meaning simply "long dress," entered the English vocabulary from the dialect of China's Guangdong Province (Cantonese). In other parts of ...
Chinese Dress Adornments
Food, clothing, shelter and tranportation are usually regarded the four most basic neccessities of life by Chinese people.In ancient society people lived in crude caves, naked. During the New Stone Age they invented bone needle and began to sew simple winter dress with leaves and animal skins. With ...
Colours and Clothing
ColoursIn Chinese culture there are three central colours: red, black and white.Red, being the colour of blood, symbolises the positive aspects of life such as happiness, wealth, fame etc. Red is always associated with good luck.Black, being the colour of faeces is associated with dirt, sin, evil, d ...

Global giants on pollution blacklist in China

Forty multinationals are among some 4,000 firms on an air pollution blacklist released Thursday.

Top companies such as Michelin China, Sina-Mars Group APP in China, the joint ventures of Toyota and Ford, and subsidiaries of Sinopec figure on the list of the China Air Pollution Map (http://en.tour9.cn), compiled by the Beijing-based non-governmental Institute of Public and Environment Affairs (IPEA).

"We started collecting the records of polluters in 2004," said Ma Jun, director of the institute.

Besides information about the polluters, the institute's latest database also records air quality and air pollution sources in 150 cities in the southern parts of the country.

Ma said the institute gets polluters' information from local and central environmental protection departments' websites or from news reports.

The air pollution map is the second such blacklist launched by the group. The China Water Pollution Map has made public details of about 9,400 water violations since last year, including those involving up to 280 foreign firms.

The water map has led 50 companies, including two local players, to respond; and two have cleared their names so far. To get their names removed from the blacklist, the companies need to comply with the rules and undergo a third-party audit.

Ma expressed the hope that the lists will pressure polluters to make improvements and encourage more people to join in the clean efforts.

The blacklisted companies should move to "provide the public with an open explanation and mend their ways," Ma told China Daily.

He said the air pollution map is only partial and more information about northern China will be released.

"Access to information is a pre-condition for public participation," said Ma. "And China has progressed in disclosing environmental information."

Tibet sees sharp increase in tourists in first 10 months

Tibet received 3.72 million tourists in the first 10 months of 2007, a year-on-year increase of 64 percent, said the regional tourism bureau on Friday.

The region's tourism revenues were 4.4 billion yuan (600 million U.S. dollars) from January to October, up 84 percent from the same period last year, said the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

Tourist arrivals from Japan reached 78,000 in the first 10 months. Japan has become Tibet's biggest source of overseas tourists, followed by the United States. The U.S. had 58,000 tourists travel to Tibet in the first 10 months.

The bureau said the region received 350,000 overseas visitors in the period under review, 150 percent up from the same period last year.

Improved transportation, especially the opening of railway service last year, and overseas promotional drives contributed to the sharp growth of tourism, the bureau said.

The region had 2.5 million tourists last year and reaped 2.77 billion yuan in total tourism earnings, accounting for 9.6 percent of the region's gross domestic product.

more news about China travel at en.tour9.cn

American Express Business Travel Announces Results of 2007 China Business Travel Survey

American Express Business Travel Announces Results of 2007 China Business Travel Survey
China as a maturing market increases focus on managed business travel

Over half of the companies surveyed expect an increase of business travel expenses in 2008

SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Express Business Travel today announced the results of its 2007 China Business Travel Survey (The Barometer) at the third American Express China Business Travel Forum (CBTF). Fifty-three percent of companies surveyed expect an increase of business travel expenses in 2008, due to an increase in the development of business and trade in China and within Asia Pacific. The China business travel market is also maturing with increased focus on Travel & Entertainment (T&E) management.

The Barometer was conducted by Research International from May to August 2007, interviewing 230 Chinese and foreign companies with 100 and more employees in six key industries in Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. Findings of The Barometer provided organizations, vendors and suppliers with the latest information of the T&E management practices and outlook of the market for 2008 in China.

The Barometer shows continued growth in T&E expenses in China:

46% of companies experienced increases in their T&E budgets, compared with last year at this time when only 28% of companies had experienced growth in their T&E budgets.
The Chinese business travel market is very similar to the US market in that it is self sufficient and the majority of expenditure takes place domestically – 69% of expenditure takes place in Mainland China.

T&E expenditure remains the second largest controllable cost for companies within China. The percentage of employees going on business trips is up from 28% in 2006 to 33% in 2007, and 60% of employees are generating T&E expenditure compared to 56% in 2006. Meals & entertainment continued to be the largest portion of business travel expenses, followed by air travel and hotel/ accommodation.

The Barometer reveals that companies in China have been paying greater focus in optimizing and controlling T&E expenses, showing that business travel market in China has become more mature and structured over the last few years:

More companies have policies for controlling T&E expenditure – 81% of the companies surveyed indicated that they have a T&E policy, up from 70% last year.
Compliance rates for T&E policies are improving – this year 47% of companies have a compliance rate above 50%, up from 28% of companies last year, with similar compliance rates for both Chinese and foreign owned companies.

86% of companies surveyed measure the efficiency of their T&E policy, compared to 69% in 2006. The most common method used by companies measuring their T&E policies is measuring whether or not expenditure is in line with the T&E policy, i.e. using preferred suppliers and using negotiated fares for air travel.
Business travel is becoming more managed as more and more rates for air travel and hotel accommodation are negotiated – 93% of companies have rules for air travel compared to 87% in 2006, while 93% also have rules for hotels compared to 90% last year.
Almost half of the companies surveyed are using a travel agency for business travel, compared to 34% in 2006. However, more foreign owned companies are using travel agencies than Chinese owned companies.

“We are impressed by the strong growth momentum of business travel in China, and its rapid pace in developing into a managed business travel market,” said Mr. Gregor Lochtie, Vice President and General Manager, Greater China, Business Travel, American Express & General Manager China, CITS American Express Business Travel. “From The Barometer, we saw that companies operating in China have paid more attention than before to look for opportunities to optimize and control their T&E expenses, an investment that can improve their bottom line. American Express is well positioned to capitalize on this growth opportunity and assist companies with world class business travel management solutions.”

The Barometer also captured opportunities for corporations in China to optimize maximum control over T&E spending:

The internet is becoming a much more important means of booking business travel because it is convenient, easy to use and fast. (61% said they use online tools, up from 37% last year.) New online tools which can provide maximum convenience, flexibility and efficiency will be welcomed by corporations.
While more companies are using a travel agency for business travel (48% this year versus 34% in 2006), only 15% of companies use a sole travel agency for business travel, with the vast majority using two or more. In such a situation, companies are not benefiting fully from using a travel agency as expenditure is spread over a number of agencies, making expenditure more difficult to control. The main selection criteria remain the competitive price for each ticket bought, with national coverage being the second most important criteria. In fact, companies should also leverage on the travel management consultancy capabilities of travel agencies, which is not yet a priority for most companies.
Cash remains the most common method of payment for companies operating in China and use of corporate cards had declined, all indicating a need for further education on the advantages of modern payment methods which enable companies to have a central billing system for all expenditure carried out by their employees.
“T&E expenditure is an important element in doing business and it continues to increase for companies in China. It is thus critical for companies to optimize maximum control and identify cost saving opportunities. American Express will capitalize on the knowledge and build on our success in the market to help companies improve their T&E practices and achieve their T&E management goals. We have the core values which corporations are looking for in a travel agency as indicated by The Barometer: global coverage, reliability and quality customer services,” said Mr. Gregor.

About the American Express China Business Travel Forum

The China Business Travel Forum (December 4 and 5) is created and hosted by American Express Business Travel and the Shanghai International Conference Management Organization, a subsidiary of Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration Commission. It is a business-to-business educational conference, designed to showcase the business travel industry, foster business relationships and further business travel in China, both internally and externally. The Forum, which was first held in Shanghai in 2005, is the first-ever event of its kind in China and features a wide variety of exhibitors including leading airlines, hotel chains, car rental companies as well as technology companies.

About CITS American Express Business Travel

Established by American Express and China International Travel Service (CITS) in 2002, CITS American Express Business Travel is the first Sino-US business travel joint venture in the People’s Republic of China. With offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the joint venture provides a wide range of business travel management services to optimize business travel investments for multi-national corporations, regional and domestic companies throughout the PRC.

About American Express Business Travel

American Express Business Travel, a division of the American Express Company, is dedicated to helping its clients realize the greatest possible value from their investment in travel through increased cost savings, outstanding customer service and greater spend control. For small businesses, medium-sized enterprises and multinational corporations, American Express Business Travel provides a combination of industry-leading booking technology, travel management consulting expertise, strategic sourcing and supplier negotiation support and customer service available online and offline, around the world.

American Express operates one of the world’s largest travel agency networks with over 2,200 travel service locations in over 140 countries and territories worldwide. The Company processed US$21.8 billion in global travel sales in 2006.

American Express Company is a leading global payments, network and travel company founded in 1850. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com.

Chinese Internet Travel Site Receives Funding Round

Chinese Internet travel search engine Qunar has reportedly received a round of financing worth US$10 million.

According to published media reports, Lehman Brothers Private Equity Partners led the financing for the oddly named search engine that means "where are you going" in the Beijing dialect. With previous funding from funds like GSR Ventures and Mayfield, now the company will use the money to capture more users from around the country.

The company operates as a meta-search engine that aggregates and provides Chinese-language search results of travel deals around China. As many Chinese airline deals and prices are still rather standardized, this search service should become more valuable as the Chinese airline sector becomes more fragmented and less regulated, giving users the ability to truly leverage a travel search online.

Ctrip.com Named as 2007 Best Employer by Fortune China

Ctrip.com International, Ltd. , a leading travel service provider of hotel accommodations, airline tickets and packaged tours in China, today announced that it has been named one of the "Best Employers of 2007" by Fortune China magazine. The news was published in the November edition of Fortune China. A total of 20 companies in China have been elected based on employee survey results.

Mr. Min Fan, Chief Executive Officer of Ctrip, said, "A strong team of employees is the most important asset of our company. We are committed to creating and maintaining a working environment where our employees can grow with the company, share our successes and contribute to the society."

About Ctrip.com International, Ltd.

Ctrip.com International, Ltd. is a leading travel service provider of hotel accommodations, airline tickets and packaged tours in China. Ctrip aggregates information on hotels and flights and enable customers to make informed and cost-effective hotel and flight bookings. Ctrip targets primarily business and leisure travelers in China who do not travel in groups. These travelers form a traditionally under-served yet fast-growing segment of the China travel industry. Since its inception in 1999, Ctrip has experienced substantial growth and become one of the best-known travel brands in China.


Ctrip.com International, Ltd.
Tel: +86-21-3406-4880 ext. 12216
Email: jrcui@ctrip.com

Smuggled Chinese Travel Circuitously to the U.S.

Since the late 1980s, hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants from China's Fujian province have been smuggled into the United States.

The business of human-smuggling has evolved as security has tightened in the U.S. And the smugglers, known as "snakeheads" by Chinese, have become more sophisticated.

In the summer of 1993, a rusty steamer ran aground off New York City. Nearly 300 passengers plunged into the chilly waters, desperate to touch American soil. Ten would die in the water, within sight of shore.

The boat was called the Golden Venture, and its passengers were immigrants smuggled from Fujian.

The capsize of the Golden Venture became national news. It was the first time many people had heard of people being smuggled from China. The incident was a source of embarrassment for both the Chinese and U.S. governments.

Changes in the Human-Smuggling Business

Fourteen years later, the flow of Fujianese to America continues, but the business of human smuggling has changed significantly. When the smuggling began two decades ago, the cost of coming to the United States was around $15,000. Now, immigrants pay $60,000 to $80,000 to be brought to America.

In one village in Fujian, people gather in the communal area. Old men play cards in the corner; others drink tea and talk. There are very few women and no young people.

Villagers say smuggling is an open business here. One of them says everyone knows how to find a snakehead —but that you need to have the money to go.

People who can go are aided by family, friends and former neighbors who have already prospered in the United States. Sometimes people living abroad lend money to pay for the snakehead.

For the most part, human smuggling is no longer about packing hundreds of people into dangerous ships. Nowadays, smuggling involves airports and cars and crisscrossing the globe on scheduled flights. Snakeheads use methods that mimic legal means of entry.

Getting a Fake ID

Smuggling people through legal points of entry — instead of skirting them — requires fake documents. And Bangkok is one place to get phony papers.

In Thailand's capital, there is a closed-off street known as Kao Sarn Road. At night it lights up with bright signs advertising tattoo and massage parlors. The air smells of humidity, grilled meat, people and booze.

You can buy fake IDs, driver's licenses, press cards and even fake degrees. The people who sell these documents set up shop among racks of knock-off Puma T-shirts and fake Chuck Taylors. They sit on cheap, plastic lawn chairs behind card tables.

You won't find fake passports on these tables, but they're available if you have the connections and the cash. At the end of Kao Sarn Road, a restaurant owner and part-time stolen passport dealer says the documents are in demand. The man didn't want his name used.

"Most of them are foreigners. There's a hotel called Malaysia Hotel at Lumpini that has some people who make fake passports. It is the biggest source of fake passports in Thailand," he says. "At the hotel, they do everything for you."

The restaurant owner started dealing passports about 10 years ago. He is a middleman, buying passports and selling them to the next middleman. He doesn't know who ends up using the passports.

"It's not that every passport has the same price. For example, the U.S. passport is almost worthless because everything is very strict. It's the same with the U.K. passport," he says. "You cannot fake it. There is high demand for passports from Israel and Japan."

"People will use the same passport. They peel back the cover and switch the picture," the dealer says. "They change the name, the signature — like how they do it with fake student IDs."

Newer passports that use photos from digital cameras are made in Malaysia, he says.

Traveling Along the Smuggling Route

For the Chinese who are smuggled through Bangkok, the journey starts out legally. Many of them fly into Bangkok International Airport on legal tourist visas with their own Chinese passports — but these tourists never go home.

In Thailand they get fake documents and then move on to the next stop along the smuggling route.

Once they're on the road, the Chinese travel a meandering route — through Russia, Europe, Africa, Latin America and Canada — before finally reaching the United States.

Good smugglers — the expensive ones — run a full-service operation. They escort the immigrants each step of the way, providing food, lodging and transportation.

Working through local operators with local nicknames, snakeheads in China work with the "pig daddies" in Thailand who hand off their charges to "coyotes" in Latin America.

On the Belize-Mexico Border

With Mexico to the north, Belize has become a stopover for smugglers traveling by land from Latin America to the United States.

Residents of Douglas in Belize know their village is a popular spot to smuggle goods and people into Mexico. The village lies next to the Rio Hondo River, which divides the two countries.

Belize has a surprisingly large Chinese population, making up more than 3 percent of the country's total population of 300,000. Those familiar with the trade say the smugglers are local Chinese-Belizean businesspeople.

Two men with bikes and a gaggle of kids show up when they realize someone is at the banks of the Rio Hondo. The river's edge is lined with trees and sugarcane. The water is still. Tied to the embankment are little canoes that locals say are used to shuttle contraband between Belize and Mexico.

The sun sets, and the light quickly slips into darkness. One of the men, in a white T-shirt and jeans, initially doesn't seem surprised by the visitor. But after some questioning, he becomes suspicious and says the canoes are used for fishing.

Later that night, one of the men is still out by the water. He leans on his bike as if waiting for something or someone.

Reaching America

After the Chinese cross into Mexico, they travel north and are smuggled across the border into America. Every week, 50 to 100 Chinese nationals are caught trying to cross the U.S.-Mexican border.

Those who make it to the United States are taken to a safe house and handed cell phones. They call home to say they've arrived safely. The snakeheads immediately go to the relatives' homes either in China or the United States to collect payment.

Once they're released by the snakeheads, these new immigrants fan out across the country, boarding Chinatown buses that take them to every corner of the U.S.

They go to jobs offered by Chinese immigrants who've already made it. They seek prosperity — the same prosperity that others who have traveled a similar path before them have found.

Dunhuang Travel Guide

The national, historical city of Dunhuang is a renowned tourist city famous for the Mogao Caves. It is situated in the common boundary of Gansu Province, Qinghai Province and Xinjiang Province. Dunhuang, long ago referred to as 'Sha Zhou' (beautiful desert oasis), was the hub of middle and eastern silk routes in ancient times. The city landmark is an attractive statue, the idea of which comes from the mural in Mogao Caves, a shrine to the culture and arts of Dunhuang. From Mt.Qilian in the south, Mt. Mazong in the north and desert from east to west, the landform of Dunhuang City is a declining basin-plain from west to northeast, high in the north and south, and low in the middle. The western cities of China, especially those in the desert, are known for their sandstorms, so tourists should protect themselves with glasses, hats and gauze kerchiefs, etc.

In ancient times, Dunhuang was the center of trade between China and its western neighbors. At that time, it was the most westerly frontier military garrison in China. With the flourishing of trade along the Silk Road, Dunhuang was prompted to become the most open area in international trade in Chinese history. It provided the only access westward for the Chinese Empire and eastward for western nationalities. Today, as a reminder of this historical area, we are left with the Mogao Caves, Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass and many wonderful Chinese poems depicting the time. Although what remains of the two Passes are crumbling walls, one can still experience the atmosphere of that time while visiting in person.

Today, Dunhuang is a typical tourist city, clean and beautiful. Because of its splendid stone caves, tourism has become an indispensable industry to Dunhuang City. Surrounding establishments include various classes of hotels and restaurants for your choosing. As well, tourism personnel are knowledgeable and well trained these days. For a western city in China, it has become more accesible for people to come and go as they please. Transportation is much more efficient, ensuring that your wonderful trip runs smoothly. May to September is the best time to visit, so be sure to plan your trip during these months. Including Dunhuang City in your tour is a decision you won't regret!

Dunhuang City, an obvious pearl on the Silk Road, opens her arms to welcome tourists from all over the world.

Gansu Province Introduction

Would you like to ramble along the ancient Silk Road and re-enter the historic long river? Come then to Gansu, a memorable tour awaits you.

Gansu is located in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, northwest China, Gansu is one of the cradles of Chinese cultures. It occupies a total area of 450,000 square kilometers (173,700 square miles) Neighboring provinces are Shaanxi to the east, Sichuan to the south, Qinghai and Xinjiang to the west and Inner Mongolia and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region to the north. With a population of 23.7 million, Gansu has a multinational population which includes ethnic minority groups of Kazak, Mongolian, Tibetan, Hui, Dongxiang, Tu and Manchu. They mutually influence each other in the fields of economics, politics and culture and hold close ties with the Han people. They have thus developed a unique cultural community.

Lanzhou, a well-known ancient city in China, is the capital of Gansu. It is the second largest city in northwest China, and also the political, economic and cultural center of the province.

What to see

With a long history and brilliant cultures, Gansu is abundantly endowed with cultural relics and natural scenery. Vast and graceful natural scenery like endless desert and pure glacial landscape presents an impressive and breath-taking picture before your eyes. Take for example the world-famous Mogao Grottoes. It is the largest and most well-preserved Buddhist art palace and also a post along the ancient Silk Road; the grand Jiayuguan Pass, an important outpost in ancient China, is the western end of the Great Wall; the Labrang Monastery in Xiahe is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist resorts in China while the Bingling Thousand Buddha Caves in Lanzhou are a treasure trove of Han Buddhism. All of these are commendatory scenic spots for your tour.

When to go

It is important for tourists to be familiar with the local temperatures. The annual average temperature is about 0 to 15C. The lowest temperature occurs in January and is approximately -14 to 3C and the highest temperature is in July between 22 and 25C. Average annual rainfall is between 30 to 860 millimeters (1.18 to 33.86 inches). With plenty of rain, you would be well-advised to take an umbrella along with you for the tour. However, despite the changeful weather, your sightseeing visit from May to October would be uninterrupted.

The traditional handicrafts in Gansu are archaized carpets (using patterns from ancient carpets), luminous cups and the duplicates of sculptures and murals of the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang.

Tourism continues to boom in Tibet

LHASA, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) - Tibet Autonomous Region hosted a record 3.72 million tourists over the first 10 months of the year, well over a million more than the total for the whole of last year.

The flood of tourists brought the region 4.4 billion yuan (about 550 million U.S. dollars).

"The plateau is of great appeal to overseas tourists - one out of ten tourists were from overseas, said Wu Yingjie, deputy chairman of the Tibet Autonomous Regional Government during a recent interview with a three-member press delegation from the Russian Information Agency (RIA).

The huge leap in the number of visitors can be attributed to the opening of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway on July 1, 2006, according to He Benyun, deputy head of the Regional Development and Reform Commission.

The tourism sector had 2.5 million tourists last year and raked in 2.77 billion yuan (about 346 million dollars) in total earnings, accounting for 9.6 percent of the region's gross domestic product (GDP).

The Tibet regional government set a target of 3.8 million tourists for 2007, a figure that now seems certain to be exceeded.

Industry experts predict more than four million tourists will visit the area this year and the sector will account for 12 percent of Tibet's GDP.

At the invitation of Xinhua News Agency, the RIA press delegation visited Beijing and Tibet between Nov. 1 and 10, with the purpose of finding more about Tibet, such as information regarding reform and development, economic construction, minority nationalities and religion.

Hangzhou ranked China's "happiest city"

If you are seeking happiness in China, Hangzhou is the place to go as the capital of Zhejiang Province topped a magazine poll of more than 3 million citizens rating the country's "10 happiest cities".

Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, finished runner-up in the poll conducted by Oriental Outlook magazine, followed by the Zhejiang Province cities of Ningbo and Taizhou. Zhuhai and Zhongshan, both in south China's Guangdong Province, were fifth and sixth, respectively. Qingdao, in eastern Shandong Province, was seventh.

Shanghai, the country's commercial hub, ranked eighth, followed by the national capital Beijing. Chengdu, capital of southwestern Sichuan Province, rounded out the list.

The poll conducted by the Shanghai-based magazine was carried out in early November under the administration of the Xinhua News Agency, the China Association of Mayors and the China Population Welfare Foundation. It asked people to name the city where it was easiest to get a sense of happiness.

People could vote via text message, the Internet or by filling out a questionnaire.

A total of 35 cities were picked from the country's 269 prefectural-level cities as candidates in April, according to statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics and local government work reports.

Employment, income, social security, housing, medicare, environment and education, as well as the intensity of work pressure and relations between individuals and individual and society, were the major indices for selecting the happiest cities, according to the organizing committee.

Chinese Premier vows to stabilize prices

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao says Monday his government will take measures to ensure sufficient supply and stabilize prices during his visit to some needy citizens in Dongcheng District of Beijing.

BEIJING, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said Monday his government would take measures to ensure sufficient supply and stabilize prices.

"Prices have been on the rise these days and I'm aware that even a one-yuan (0.13 U.S. dollars) increase in prices will affect people's lives," said Wen during his visit to some needy citizens in Dongcheng District of Beijing.

To prop up people's incomes, Wen called on employers in the country to offer higher salaries and to strictly abide by the rules on minimum wages.

"Only when people's quality of life is improved will we feel reassured and believe we did a good job," said Wen.

To prevent prices from rising drastically, the government was trying to ensure adequate supply by giving support to the pig-raising, cooking oil and dairy industries and encouraging imports, said Wen.

It was also cracking down on activities that attempted to force up prices far beyond real values, said Wen.

Prices were stable from 2003 to 2006 but climbed rapidly this year, said Wen, adding that the recent price hikes were resulted from such factors as the rising oil and grain prices on the international market.

Rising prices of pork and cooking oil pushed up prices of other foodstuffs even though China had enjoyed bumper harvests in the last four years and the country's grain output would reach a record 500 million tons this year, said Wen.

China Bans Time-Limited Sales Promotions

China's Ministry of Commerce issued an urgent circular on Monday banning time-limited sales promotions in shops following a deadly stampede at a Carrefour outlet.

Three people died and 31 were injured in a stampede triggered by a sales promotion at a Carrefour outlet on Nov. 10 in the country's southwestern Chongqing Municipality.

The three-day promotion at a hypermarket in the city's Shapingba District was launched to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the French retail giant's entry into the city.

The shop offered an 11.5 yuan (1.5 U.S. dollars) savings from the original price of 51.4 yuan for a five-liter bottle of edible oil. When it opened its doors for business throngs of people swarmed in and a mass stampede began.

"The outlet has been ordered to suspend operation and the work safety watchdog has started an investigation," said Gao Chang, spokesman for the Shapingba District government.

The ministry has ordered local commercial authorities and public security departments to launch an overhaul of retail stores to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

It also ordered local branches to help store managers foster safety awareness and establish emergency-response procedures.

China has 345,000 millionaires

China had 345,000 millionaires by the end of last year, the second-most in Asia after Japan, according to a new study by US investment bank Merrill Lynch.

The number of Chinese US dollar millionaires was up 7.8 percent from the year before, helped by a stock market that saw its value soar 130 percent over the 12 months, according to the study, co-authored with consultancy Capgemini.

"The Chinese economy turned in another year of strong performance in 2006, driven by surging exports and rising domestic consumption," Merrill Lynch executive Francis Liu said in a statement released Wednesday.

"Returns from the stock market also gave a lift to the number of China (millionaires) and their holdings."

China also has 4,935 extremely rich people, or "Ultra-HNWIs" (Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals), defined as those with financial assets of more than 30 million dollars, the statement said.

"China's rapid economic growth is reflected in a high concentration of Ultra-HNWIs," said Dirk Chanmueller, a Capgemini executive. "The country is home to more than 28 percent of the Ultra-HNWIs in Asia Pacific."

The survey was released a week after two annual "China Rich" lists emerged, showing an explosion in the number of very wealthy people.

China now has 106 billionaires, up from 15 a year ago, according to one of the two lists, published by Shanghai-based Hurun Magazine.

The latest data was published just as the elite of China's Communist Party were gathered in Beijing for their five-yearly Congress, with the growing wealth divide among the top agenda items.

Report: China Issues Broad Olympic Ban

China has secretly issued an order banning those the government considers a threat from next year's Olympics — a group that includes terrorists, Falun Gong activists, some media workers and frequent traffic-law violators, an overseas monitoring association said Friday.

China's leaders view the Beijing Olympics as a way to project a positive image of the country, but the games also offer a rare opportunity for protesters to air their grievances against China's government and the ruling Communist party.

The order from the Ministry of Public Security bans those who fall into broad categories such as "antagonistic elements," "members of illegal organizations," and "non-government organizations engaging in activities that can pose a real threat to the Olympic Games," according to the China Aid Association, based in Midland, Texas.

Others include religious extremists, "media employees who can harm the Olympic Games" and "dangerous elements ... and other people who have serious grievances against the Party," said the group, which advocates for religious freedom in China.

It was not clear whether the order reportedly issued in April applied to visitors or participants, although the association said the security ministry called for strict examinations of athletes, Olympic Committee members, media and sponsors.

The association cited government sources as the basis of its report. The group's founder, Bob Fu, did not immediately respond to an e-mail from The Associated Press asking to see the original government document.

Preparations for the Beijing Olympics, such as venue construction, have hummed along at a record pace, but the high-profile event has opened China to accusations of human rights violations, not doing enough to fight pollution and willingness to overlook Sudan's actions in its violence-ridden Darfur region in return for gas and oil.

Critics have asserted that Beijing is so eager to host a flawless event that it will go to great lengths to keep out potential "troublemakers" during the games, which begin Aug. 8.

Listed under "antagonistic elements" in the government order, for example, were anti-China forces inside and outside the country, and family members of people injured or killed in riots who still pose a threat, the report said. The category also includes "frequent traffic violators in running red lights and J-walking."

Others who are banned included terrorists, criminals under surveillance and followers of the Falun Gong spiritual movement, which China considers a cult, the association said.

A press official at the Ministry of Public Security said the report was "not very accurate" and that it was international practice to examine visitors during Olympic Games. The man, who refused to give his name, asked the AP to fax an interview request for further comment, to which he did not immediately respond.

Li Zhanjun, director of the Beijing Olympics media center, said he was "unclear" about the issue and needed to look into the claims.

Travel to the Great Wall - Who is not a man until he reach the great wall

He who does not reach the Great Wall is not a true man if you come to travel China, you must visit the great wall.

The Great Wall of China is definitely a travel destination that won't disappoint you. Covering such a huge amount of history and offering so many stories, it's certainly worth reading up before embarking on your journey.

To gain the maximum potential from the Great Wall of China, and to appreciate it's 'greatness' it's best to get up close and personal and take a walk along it. This can be treacherous and difficult if you are not properly prepared. By following these simple guidelines, you will get the most from your adventure.

Clothing: Since it was a military facility, the Great Wall was mainly built along the ridges of steep mountains. Your clothes should therefore be light, loose outdoor sportswear suitable for mountaineering. Your sportswear should be waterproof and wind-resistant suitable for mountaineering. It is also recommended that the fabric is air-permeable to keep your body dry and comfortable.


Foot protection: Different routes require different shoes. Your feet will swell with the altitude and heat, so be careful with new shoes. New shoes may be uncomfortable; 'wear them in' by going on a couple of hikes prior to your journey. Hiking boots or Tough waterproof trainers with good traction and ankle support are recommended. Shoelaces shouldn't be too loose or too tight; otherwise your feet will easily get tired and even hurt.

Socks should be of moderate thickness, cotton socks although soft and are sweat absorbent, may cause blisters. Vaseline and grease can be daubed on feet to ease the rubbing and prevent blisters. If you do get a blister, place antiseptic and an expandable band-aid over the area - do not prick it!

Sunburn protection: It is very easy to get sun burnt in mountaineering due to the altitude and strong ultraviolet radiation. The following measures must be applied to avoid that, or you will suffer for a few days. First, DO NOT expose yourself to the sun, wear a hat and long loose clothing. Secondly, about half an hour before you start your journey, please use a strong sun protection cream on all exposed areas - don't forget the back of your neck. Re-apply the protection cream every couple of hours.

Water supply: Water us essential for your trip. You should drink plenty of fluids to replace the fluids your body uses during exercise. You should drink at least 100 ml every 30-40 minutes, so pack half a liter for every hour you intend to walk. Alkaline drinks are preferred to quickly restore physical strength.

Safety: Traveling on the Great Wall can be exhausting if you are not fit. Seniors and weaklings are recommended to take it slowly and get enough rest to appreciate the charming scenery of the Great Wall. When touring to undeveloped sites, do not climb onto insecure or damaged sections as you may injure yourself and damage the wall.

Whilst taking pictures, pay attention to barriers underfoot - many people have come 'unstuck' during a lapse of concentration.

Just a reminder, always pack a medical aid kit and extra camera films!

Happy Great Wall Hiking!

Shopping In China Introduction Part II - Where to Buy

From the roadside stall to the large-scale modern shopping mall, from the common store to a popular supermarket, China has numerous perfect places to shop that can satisfy all shoppers' desires.

Department Stores

Shopping in China is easy and convenient, as various department stores are commonly found, especially in the high street. The level and scale of these shops vary, depending on the city and the area.Various items for daily use, which are much cheaper, are often offered in the smaller and more ordinary roadside shops or boutiques. Whenever you need something like everyday necessities, snacks or even clothes, you can immediately go there for your favorite things. Don't forget to try bargaining: you may get a special price.

China Shopping Mall

In the busy streets of the downtown area, usually in the shopping center of a city, there are large-scale and high-class emporiums, in which not only the domestic brands but also many well-known international brands are all sold. Everyday items, cosmetics, household appliances, bedding, clothes, and everything up-market that you wish for can be found easily to satisfy your every need. Bargaining is seldom acceptable, but there are often special promotions or end-of-season sales with an attractive price.

Business Street

Most large and distinctive Chinese cities, like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, feature special business streets, where local products are on sale. Merchandise of the same kind is usually sold in the same street, which makes shopping easy and saves you time. The Hongqiao Market in Beijing, also known as the ‘Pearl Market', especially attracts female overseas tourists and mainly sells pearl jewellery, while Silver Street, where many boutiques are located, always tempt the youth by its modern fashion. You may also find various characteristic streets selling the four treasured tools of studying (writing brush, ink, inkstone and paper), painting and calligraphy, handicraft, silk and embroidery, jade articles, crockery, furnishings, musical instruments, boutiques, even flowers, as well as grocery streets or food streets. Some of the business streets are pedestrian malls, where tourists can relax and shop at their leisure.

China Supermarket

The western-style mode of sales operation, the supermarket, is becoming more and more popular in China for its convenience, competitive price and products, close to where people live. Everything you want for daily use can be found easily here. Many world-famous supermarket chains like Wal-Mart, Carrefour and Metro entered the Chinese market by opening scores of branches in most of the larger Chinese cities. Domestic brands like the Home World, Trust-Mart and Renrenle are also popular among Chinese people. You have to pay what the price tag shows since bargaining is unacceptable. Make sure your bags are stored in the Locker Service before you start your shopping.

Bargain Market

If you want to buy something cheap and nice at a much lower price, the bargain market is your best choice. Almost all the Chinese cities have such places for you to fossick through things, marveling at the price. Generally the goods here are not as superior as in the shops or malls, but this does not rule out those which are still of high quality. Clothes, shoes, bags, commodities, and food; in the bargain market you will find all your desires. As some of them are secondhand or old factory stock, carefully check the goods you purchase so as to avoid buying inferior or defective products. Rememeber to bargain with the seller to get the lowest possible price; you may get a most favorable discount.

Factory Shop

Factory shops also sell the products they make in their own showrooms, especially those who produce a local specialty, like jade articles, porcelain, ceramics, silk, arts and crafts. If you join a tourist group on your China trip, most probably the tour guide will take you to such factories as one of the attractions. Since the place is where the products are made, the merchandise is certainly genuine and you may get a very preferential price at a good discount.

Hotel Store

As one of the supporting facilities for their guests, a store is often located in most star-rated hotels. Actually goods are somewhat more expensive than those being sold in other shops outside the hotel, but the quality is good. Food, articles for everyday use and especially local souvenirs are commonly on sale here. Shopping at the hotel store is very convenient and saves you much time.

Shopping Online

As the new-fashioned way to shop, online-shopping is now gradually being accepted. Since it is not time-consuming, but easy and convenient, some young people like to shop online. Shoppers can buy with ease simply in front of their own internet connected computers. The price is also competitive compared with that in the shops. The well-known Chinese online-shopping websites like Sohu, Sina, Netease, Ebay, Joyo and Dangdang offer you a normal and legal online trading platform. Payment security is the shoppers' worst worry, so online shopping is not so highly recommended. If you insist on buying online, do verify the selllers' authenticity and prestige and be cautious of the whole process.

Where to Buy in China?

Friendship Stores in China

In China, friendship stores are appointed to provide services to foreign visitors. This kind of stores is always run by the state with a variety of goods available including silk, jewelry made from gold, silver, pearl and jade, embroidered tablecloths and blouses, paintings, four treasures of the study, porcelain, pottery and handicrafts.

All goods are marked with prices and quality is guaranteed. Bargaining is acceptable.Travellers cheque can be changed there.Prices may be slightly higher than at other Chinese stores but the goods are of higher quality and some items are unavailable elsewhere.

Department Stores in China

Most of them are run by the state with others by individual or joint venture. They mainly cover all kind of articles of everyday use. Bargaining is seldom acceptable.Look for sales.

Markets in China

Markets are an ideal place to purchase some cheap and piddling articles. The price is flexible and you could practise your bargaining skill there.

Factories in China

If you prefer to buy some artwork at a lower price, you could go directly to the factories. Every arts and crafts factory has a showroom where visitors can buy what is made there.

Beside, most of the luxury hotels have their own shopping mall where various souvenirs and daily articles offered.

China Banking and Insurance Introduction

After the founding of the PRC, the People’s Bank of China exercised the functions and powers of the central bank, at the same time handling industrial and commercial loans and savings. Therefore, it was neither a real central bank nor a commercial bank in conformity with the laws of the market. Since 1978, China has carried out a series of major reforms in its banking system and invigorated the opening to the outside world, in the process allowing finance to develop steadily. In 1999, the total amount of RMB deposits of all the banking institutions had reached 10.9 trillion yuan, and the total amount of credits was 9.4 trillion yuan, 96 times and 53 times the figures for 1978, respectively. China has basically formed a new financial system regulated, controlled and supervised by the central bank, with national banks providing the main body, and policy management separated from commercial business. Many different kinds of banking organizations coexist, rationally coordinating the division of responsibility. The new banking system has played an active role in curbing inflation and promoting economic development. Since 1984, the People’s Bank of China no longer handles loans and savings, but formally acts as a central bank to exercise macro-control and supervision over the nation’s banking business, achieving remarkable success. In 1994, the Industrial and Commercil Bank of China, Bank of China, Agricultural Bank of China and Construction Bank of China were transformed into national commercial banks; meanwhile, three policy banks were established: the China Agricultural Development Bank, National Development Bank and China Import and Export Bank. The Commercial Banks Law, issued in 1995, not only provides the conditions for constructing a new commercial bank system and organization, but also offers legal ways for the national specialized banks to be transformed into commercial banks. Since 1996, a number of stock commercial banks have been set up, the number of financial institutions have increased rapidly, and banking businesses have become diversified, and banking services have become an indispensable part of society. After the eruption of the financial crisis in the capitalist countries of Asia in 1997, in order to prevent and eliminate financial risks, the People’s Bank of China established a management system in 1998 to conduct independent management and supervision over the banking, securities and insurance sectors, cancelled provincial-level branches and offices at or below the prefecture and city levels, and established nine trans-provincial (autonomous regional and municipal) branches.

Over the past 21 years, China has steadily broadened its finance sector. A group of foreign-capital and Sino-foreign joint-venture financial organizations have been established in the special economic zones and coastal open cities as well as in major inland cities, and the right to do RMB business has been given to some foreign-invested banks. The Chinese government has decided to enlarge the regions where foreign-invested banks may establish business operation organizations from the present 23 cities and Hainan Province to all major cities. By the end of 1999, a total of 177 commercial foreign financial organizations and 248 agencies of foreign banks had been set up in China. China’s commercial banks have also set up branches abroad to develop international credit business. Among them, the Bank of China has the most and biggest branches. In 1980, China resumed its membership of the World Bank, and returned to the International Monetary Fund. In 1984, it established business relations with the Bank for International Settlements. In 1985, China formally joined the African Development Bank, and in 1986 officially became a member of the Asian Development Bank.

Administrative Map of China

China's Location on the Map of the World

China Map

China is located in East Asia, on the western shore of the Pacific Ocean, the People's Republic of China (PRC) has a land area of about 9.6 million sq km, and is the third-largest country in the world, next only to Russia and Canada.

From north to south, the territory of China measures some 5,500 km, stretching from the center of the Heilongjiang River north of the town of Mohe (latitude 53° 30’ N) to the Zengmu Reef at the southernmost tip of the Nansha Islands (latitude 4° N). When north China is still covered with snow, people in south China are busy with spring plowing. From west to east, the nation extends about 5,200 km from the Pamirs (longitude 73° 40’E) to the confluence of the Heilongjiang and Wusuli rivers (longitude 135° 05’ E), with a time difference of over four hours. When the Pamirs are cloaked in night, the morning sun is shining brightly over east China. China has land borders 22,800 km long, with 15 contiguous countries: Korea to the east; the People’s Republic of Mongolia to the north; Russia to the northeast; Kazakhstan, Kirghizstan and Tajikistan to the northwest; Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan to the west and southwest; and Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar to the south. Across the seas to the east and southeast are the Republic of Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Chinese mainland is flanked to the east and south by the Bohai, Yellow, East China and South China seas, with a total maritime area of 4.73 million sq km. The Bohai Sea is China’s continental sea, while the Yellow, East China and South China seas are marginal seas of the Pacific Ocean. A total of 5,400 islands dot China’s vast territorial waters. The largest of these, with an area of about 36,000 sq km, is Taiwan, followed by Hainan with an area of 34,000 sq km. Diaoyu and Chiwei islands, located to the northeast of Taiwan Island, are China’s easternmost islands. The many islands, islets, reefs and shoals on the South China Sea, known collectively as the South China Sea Islands, are subdivided into the Dongsha, Xisha, Zhongsha and Nansha island groups.

China Ancient Times Brief History

China Ancient Times (from Antiquity to A.D. 1840)

China, one of the world’s most ancient civilizations, has a recorded history of nearly 4,000 years.

Anthropologists working in Yuanmou, in Yunnan Province, have uncovered the remains of China’s earliest discovered hominid, “Yuanmou Man,” who lived in this area approximately 1.7 million years ago. “Peking Man,” who lived in Zhoukoudian, to the southwest of modern Beijing 400,000 to 500,000 years ago, had the basic characteristics of Homo Sapiens. Peking Man walked upright, made and used simple tools, and knew how to make fire. Man in China passed from primitive society to slave society in the 21st century B.C., with the founding of China’s first dynasty, that of the Xia. The subsequent dynasties, the Shang (16th-11th century B.C.) and the Western Zhou (11th century-770 B.C.) saw further development of slave society. This era was followed by the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods (770-221 B.C.), marking the transition from the slave society to feudal society.

China was one of the countries where economic activity first developed. As early as 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, people in the Yellow River valley had already started farming and raising livestock. During the Shang Dynasty (more than 3,000 years ago), people learned how to smelt bronze and use iron tools. White pottery and glazed pottery were produced. Silk production was well developed, and the world’s first figured inlaid silk weaving technique was being used. During the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.), steel production technologies appeared. During the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.), Li Bing and his son directed the construction of the Dujiang Dam near present-day Chengdu in Sichuan Province. This brilliant achievement in water conservancy made possible rationalized irrigation supply, flood diversion and sand discharge, and is still playing a tremendous role in this regard even today. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, philosophy and other branches of scholarship were unprecedentedly thriving, with the representatives of various schools vying with each other in writing books to discuss politics and analyze society. Hence the appearance of a situation in which “a hundred schools of thought contended.” Famous philosophers in this period included Lao Zi, Confucius, Mo Zi and Sun Zi.

In 221 B.C., Ying Zheng, a man of great talent and bold vision, ended the rivalry among the independent principalities in the Warring States Period and established the first centralized, unified, multi-ethnic state in Chinese history under the Qin Dynasty (221-207 B.C.), and called himself Shi Huang Di (First Emperor), historically known as Qin Shi Huang, or First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty. During his reign, Qin Shi Huang standardized the script, currencies, and weights and measures, established the system of prefectures and counties, and constructed the world-renowned Great Wall as well as a large palace, mausoleum and temporary regal lodges respectively in Xianyang, Lishan and other places. The structures of these places above the ground have long been destroyed, but the objects underground are still there. The life-size terracotta horses and armored warriors excavated from sites near the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang are known as the eighth wonder of the world, attracting swarms of Chinese and foreign visitors every day. At the end of the Qin Dynasty, Liu Bang, a peasant leader, overthrew the Qin regime in cooperation with Xiang Yu, an aristocratic general. A few years later, Liu Bang defeated Xiang Yu and established the strong Han Dynasty in 206 B.C.

In the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 220), agriculture, handicrafts and commerce were well developed. During the reign of Emperor Wudi (Liu Che, r. 140-87 B.C.), the Han regime reached the period of its greatest prosperity: The emperor conquered the Xiongnu nomads, and sent Zhang Qian as envoy to the Western Regions (Central Asia), and in the process pioneered the route known as the “Silk Road” from the Han capital Chang’an (today’s Xi’an, Shaanxi Province), through Xinjiang and onward, finally reaching the east coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the Silk Road, beautiful silk products made in China were transported to the West in a steady stream. In 33 B.C., Wang Zhaojun, a palace maiden, was married to Huhanxie, chieftain of the Xiongnu, leaving a moving story about marriage ties between the Han and the Xiongnu. The multi-ethnic country became more consolidated. The Han regime existed for a total of 426 years. It was followed by the Three Kingdoms Period (220-265) of Wei, Shu and Wu.

The most famous statesmen during the Three Kingdoms Period were Cao Cao (155-220), Zhuge Liang (181-234) and Sun Quan (182-252). Cao Cao was the founder of the State of Wei. He collected people of talent from all over the country, stationed troops in border areas to open up wasteland, established military farms, and finally gained control over the Yellow River valley. Zhuge Liang was the prime minister of the State of Shu, and a symbol of wisdom in ancient China. For many centuries, his lofty spirit of “bending himself to the task and exerting himself to the utmost till his dying days” has encouraged the Chinese people. Sun Quan was the founder of the State of Wu. He once allied with Liu Bei (161-223) to defeat Cao Cao at the Red Cliff, and later inflicted a crushing defeat on Liu Bei at Yiling. In addition, Sun Quan appointed officials in charge of agriculture, and had garrison troops or peasants open up wasteland and grow grain, thus promoting land reclamation to the south of the Yangtze River. Stories about them can be found in a novel called Three Kingdoms. (r. 626-649)

The Three Kingdoms Period was followed by the Jin (265-420), the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420-589), and the Sui Dynasty (581-618). In 618, Li Yuan founded the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Later, Li Shimin (r. 626-649), son of Li Yuan, ascended the throne as Emperor Taizong, who was one of the greatest emperors in Chinese history. Emperor Taizong adopted a series of policies known as the Zhenguan reign period reforms, which pushed the feudal society to the height of prosperity. Agriculture, handicrafts and commerce flourished; technologies for textile manufacture and dyeing, porcelain production, smelting, metal casting and shipbuilding made great progress. During this time, land and water transportation was also fairly well developed, and economic and cultural relations with Japan, Korea, India, Persia, Arabia and other countries were extensive. After the Tang Dynasty, there came the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (907-960). In 960, General Zhao Kuangyin of the Later Zhou Dynasty rose in mutiny, and founded the Song Dynasty (960-1279). In 1206, Genghis Khan unified all the tribes in Mongolia and founded the Mongol Khanate. In 1271, his grandson, Kublai Khan, conquered the Central Plain, founded the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and made Dadu (today’s Beijing) the capital. During the Song and Yuan dynasties, handicraft industry and domestic and foreign trade boomed. Many merchants and travelers came from abroad. Marco Polo came from Venice and traveled extensively in China, later describing the country’s prosperity in his Travels. The “four great inventions” of the Chinese people in ancient times—paper making, printing, the compass and gunpowder—were further developed in the Song and Yuan dynasties, and introduced to foreign countries during this time, making great contributions to world civilization.

In 1368, Zhu Yuanzhang founded the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Nanjing, and reigned as Emperor Taizu. When his son, and successor, Zhu Di, ascended the throne, he started to build the palace, temples, city walls and moat in Beijing. In 1421, he officially made Beijing his capital. In the Ming Dynasty, remarkable progress was made in agricultural production and handicrafts, and toward the end of the dynasty, the rudiments of capitalism appeared. In addition, there were friendly contacts between China and other countries in Asia and Africa.

In the late Ming Dynasty, the Manchus in northeast China grew in strength. Under the leadership of Nurhachi, the Manchus invaded the Central Plain for three generations in succession, and finally founded the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The two most famous emperors of the Qing Dynasty were Emperor Kangxi (r. 1661-1772) and Emperor Qianlong (r. 1735-1796). The Kangxi and Qianlong reign periods were known as the “times of prosperity.” During Qing rule, some novels of high artistic value were created, of which Cao Xueqin’s Dream of Red Mansions is the best known. It describes the decline of a prosperous feudal aristocratic family.

Seafood Extravaganza

Sheraton Shenzhen Futian Hotel “The Exchange” launch Seafood Buffet dinner on the weekends, which celebrates the bounty of the sea with stunning items from imported oysters, lobsters, scallops, crabs, prawns and so much more awaits the palates of seafood lovers. Pamper your family and friends to our sunning Seafood Buffet and indulge your weekends with us!

Adult: RMB288+15% include free flow of red / white wine and local beer OR RMB228 +15% with free flow of soft drink

Child: RMB148+15% with free flow of soft drink

Haiyin Book City---For the True Book Lovers

I ran home immediately after work, heart thumping, mouth dry, full of anticipation, just to check whether there was any mail or message from the one I've been waiting for. Sound familiar to those of you in love? Except the mail or message I was waiting for was from my bookseller as to whether the new book I ordered has arrived!

A good book is an ideal companion, especially on a long trip. It only talks to you when you want to be talked to. It is always there, waiting patiently for you to return to wherever you feel like. It will never tell you that you are too slow, too dumb, too kinky. In short, the perfect soul-mate.

The most enjoyable moment is when you take your book out after a relaxing hot bath, then feel its weight, rub its pages, sniff the smell of print before proceeding to read it till the wee hours.

However, for quite a long time, I found that getting a good book was not an easy job.

My friends recommended to me a book wholesaler in Haiyin.

Haiyin Book City offered everything on print, Chinese books, foreign books, books on finance, economy, tourism, maps to cities all around the country, computer, swordsmen fiction, great essays, textbooks, all kinds of magazines, children books, cartoons, how-to books.... The prices were reasonable, especially if you purchased in quantity. In general, you could get at least a 20% discount and if you bought more, you might get as much as 40% discount.

Travel tip: Haiyin Book Wholesale Market was located under the Haiyin Bridge. To get there take buses no. 104, 546, 551, and 45, get off at the stop for Dashatou, and walk westward for Second Hand Market.

Haiyin Book City---For the True Book Lovers

I ran home immediately after work, heart thumping, mouth dry, full of anticipation, just to check whether there was any mail or message from the one I've been waiting for. Sound familiar to those of you in love? Except the mail or message I was waiting for was from my bookseller as to whether the new book I ordered has arrived!

A good book is an ideal companion, especially on a long trip. It only talks to you when you want to be talked to. It is always there, waiting patiently for you to return to wherever you feel like. It will never tell you that you are too slow, too dumb, too kinky. In short, the perfect soul-mate.

The most enjoyable moment is when you take your book out after a relaxing hot bath, then feel its weight, rub its pages, sniff the smell of print before proceeding to read it till the wee hours.

However, for quite a long time, I found that getting a good book was not an easy job.

My friends recommended to me a book wholesaler in Haiyin.

Haiyin Book City offered everything on print, Chinese books, foreign books, books on finance, economy, tourism, maps to cities all around the country, computer, swordsmen fiction, great essays, textbooks, all kinds of magazines, children books, cartoons, how-to books.... The prices were reasonable, especially if you purchased in quantity. In general, you could get at least a 20% discount and if you bought more, you might get as much as 40% discount.

Travel tip: Haiyin Book Wholesale Market was located under the Haiyin Bridge. To get there take buses no. 104, 546, 551, and 45, get off at the stop for Dashatou, and walk westward for Second Hand Market.

Guangdong Province Introduction

Guangdong Province is situated in the southern part of China mainland. It adjoins Jiangxi and Hunan provinces to the north, Fujian Province to the east, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the west and to the south across the Qiongzhou Strait is the island Province of Hainan. Guangdong province covers an area of over 180,000 square kilometers (69,502 square miles) and has permanent population of 74,730,000. It also has 3,368 kilometers (1,300 miles) of winding coastline, which is the longest in the country. Rivers from all over the province meandering through the fertile Pearl River Delta discharges into the South China Sea at the half waypoint of the coastline. The Pearl River Delta is one of China's most densely cultivated areas. Situated right at the top of this river delta at the confluence of the North River, East River and West River is the provincial capital city of Guangzhou, which was formerly known as Canton to the western world.

Guangdong History

Guangzhou is an ancient city with a history of 2800 years. It is named 'the spring city' because with long summer the city is always with green plants and blooming with fresh flowers all years round. Myth legend tells of Guangzhou was founded by Five Immortals riding five rams, each ram planted a stalks of rice grain which symbolizes abundant of harvest or prosperity. And this is how Guangzhou got its nickname, 'Yang Cheng' literally means 'Goat City'. Guangzhou provides traveler with their first taste of mainland China, thus resulting in also been the first place of mainland China where foreign influences enters into the country.

Guangzhou is also the main communication center of Guangdong with generous amount of railways, highways, bridges, multi levels of flyovers and labyrinth of waterways. Ferries are still very much in use as a mode of transport, which also provides river excursion. With so many types of transport, it's not difficult to go to other places, towns and other areas in Guangdong Province.

What to see in Guangdong

Guangdong has many picturesque tourist places of attractions. No matter be it a natural scenic spot, a historical or cultural site, it has its own highlight and interest. Here, each tourist can find what he or she wants to see. If you want to appreciate the beautiful natural landscapes, you can go to climb Guangdong's four famous mountains. They are Danxia Mountain in the north, Xijiao Mountain at the South China Sea, Luofu Mountain in Boluo and the Dinghu Mountain in Zhaoqing. Ancestral Temple of the Chen Family, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Yuexiu Park, Baiyun Shan (White Cloud Mountain) and the Pearl River water front could be enjoyed in Guangzhou.

Up North by the Hunan and Jingling borders is the Nanhua Temple in Shaoguan. Journeying to the east from Shantou you may see much beautiful countryside scenery. To the west may lead you to Guangxi Province with picturesque lakes and hill landscapes. At the south is China's Special Economic Zone with the two well known cities of Shenzhen just north of the former British colony of Hong Kong and Zhuhai on the border with the former Portuguese enclave of Macau. At Shenzhen, you can complete a round-the-world trip in one day by visiting Splendid China and Window of the World. It exhibits collection of scale models of the world's famous structures or monuments such as the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower of France and many others. Downtown in Shenzhen you may find the China Folk Culture Villages. This folk culture village introduces to tourist the different natural conditions and social customs of all the various Chinese ethnic groups. Different colorful ethnic group cultural dances and performances were held at every interval of thirty minutes. Besides that you may also get to see some arches, pavilions, huts and paintings on rock.

For sports enthusiastic people, there are some golf courses built with international standards in Zhuhai, Shenzhen and other cities. You can also have much fun in some excellent beaches existing along the thousand kilometers of coastline.

When to go Guangdong

Guangdong has a subtropical climate. Summer can be sweltering hot and wet. Typhoon hit this province frequently in summer and autumn. Annual rainfall averages nearly 1500-2000 millimeters and annual temperature averages 19C - 26C. So the best time for travelers to Guangdong is in spring and autumn.

Guangdong is famous for its fine gastronomy Cantonese cuisine. Many returning oversea Chinese would enjoy dinning in the various restaurants. All in one words Guangdong is graceful and charming. The bustling markets, the brightly lighted night fair, the Cantonese restaurants and tea house that can be found everywhere and the wholeness of it tells you, the full essence of Guangdong Province. What you have to do is to visit, experience and relish it.

Vocational Education In China

During the 50 years since the founding of the People's Republic of China in l949, vocational education underwent a process of adjustment, rectification, substantiation, reform, improvement and steady development. Since China entered a new historical era of reform and opening to the outside world in 1978, Chinese vocational education has been injected with tremendous vitality for development. In l991, the State Council formulated the "Decision on Energetically Developing Vocational and Technical Education" identifying the tasks and objectives for the further development of vocational education in the light of economic and social development in the 1990's in China. The " Outline on Reform and Development of Education in China" drawn up by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council in 1993 required governments at various levels to attach great importance to vocational education, make overall plans and energetical develop vocational education. The outline aimed at mobilizing the initiatives of all departments, enterprises, institutions and all quarters of the society to provide vocational education of multiple forms and various levels. In 1996, the first "Vocational Education Law" in China was formally promulgated and implemented, providing legal protection for the development and perfection of vocational education. A year after, in the "Report of the 15th National Congress", President Jiang Zeming pointed out that the strategy of invigorating China through science, technology and education and keeping sustainable development should be implemented and vocational education and adult education of various forms should be actively developed. The "Decision on Deepening Educational Reform and Promoting Quality Education " the State Council in 1999 emphasizes that an educational system adapting to the socialistic market economy and the internal law of education with different types of education linking up to each other should be established, and that vocational education should be energetically developed and senior secondary education including regular and vocational education should also be vigorously developed. All these policies, regulations and laws have not only created an unprecedentedly good social environment for the development of vocational education, but also show the direction for the reform and development of vocational education in the 21st century.

The System of Vocational Education and Its Development

The system of vocational education consists of education in vocational schools and vocational training.

Vocational education in China is provided at three levels: junior secondary, senior secondary and tertiary.

Conducted mainly in junior vocational schools and aimed at training workers, peasants and employees in other sectors with basic professional knowledge and certain professional skills, junior vocational education refers to the vocational and technical education after primary school education and is a part of the 9-year compulsory education. The students in secondary vocational school should be primary school graduates or the youth with equivalent cultural knowledge and its schooling lasts 3 to 4 years. To meet the needs of labor forces for the development of rural economy, junior vocational schools are mainly located in rural areas where the economy is less developed.

The secondary level mainly refers to the vocational education in senior high school stage. Composed of specialized secondary schools, skill workers schools and vocational high schools, and as the mainstay of vocational education in China, secondary vocational education plays a guiding role in training manpower with practical skills at primary and secondary levels of various types.

Consisting of secondary technical schools and normal schoo1s, specialized secondary schools enroll junior high school graduates with a schooling of usually 4 years and sometimes 3 years, A few specialities are open only to senior high school graduates with the schooling lasting 2 years. The basic tasks of these schools are to train secondary-level specialized and technical talents for the forefront of production, and all the students should master the basic knowledge, theory and skills of their speciality in addition to the cultural knowledge required for higher school students.

Aiming at training secondary-level skill workers, skill worker schools enroll junior high school graduates and their schooling lasts 3 years. Quite capable of practicing and operating, their graduates will directly be engaged in production activities.

Developing on the basis of the structural reform of secondary education after China adopted the policy of reform and opening to the outside world and directly coming from the reorganization of regular high schools, vocational high school enrolls junior high school graduates and its schooling lasts 3 years. Its main task is to train secondary-1evel practice-oriented talents with comprehensive professional abilities and all-round qualities directly engaged in the forefront of production, service, technology and management. Accordingly, the specialities offered in vocational high schools are mainly related to the third industry.

In 2001, there were altogether 17,770 secondary vocational schools (including vocational high schools, specialized secondary schools and skill workers school), with the enrollment of 11,642,300 students and the recruitment of 3,976,300 students.

With the schooling lasting 2 to 3 years, tertiary vocational education mainly enroll graduates from regular high schools and secondary vocational schools. In recent years, the proportion of graduates form secondary vocational schools has been increased, establishing the link between secondary and tertiary vocational education gradually. Aiming at training secondary and high - level specialized technical and management talents needed in the economic construction, tertiary vocational education emphasiz6s the training of practice-oriented and craft-oriented talents. At present, institutions providing tertiary vocational education are divided into four categories. The first is the higher vocational technology institutions; the second is the 5-year higher vocational classes provided in the regular specialized secondary schools; the third is the tertiary vocational education provided in some regular higher education institutions and adult higher education institutions; the last is the reformed regular institutions offering 2 to 3-year higher education with the emphasis on training practice-oriented talents, namely high-level professional technical talents, for the forefront of production.

　　Vocational training of various forms has been playing a more and more important role in vocational education. At present, vocational training is mainly conducted and managed by the departments of education and labor, but enterprises are encouraged to provide vocational training for its own employees. In 2001, short-term training are proved for 100 million person-time.

The Achievements of Vocational Education in China

　　1.The Rapid Expansion of the Scale of Vocational Education

　　During the l5 years between 1980 and 2001, the proportion of regular senior high school students among all the students in senior secondary education has decreased from 81% to 54.7%, while the proportion of secondary vocational school students has increased from 19% to 45.3%. From l980 to 2001, secondary vocational education institutions produced 50 million graduates, fostering millions of secondary-level and primary-level technical workers, managers, skill workers and other labors with good vocational and technical education.

　　2.The Big Stride Made in the Construction of Vocational Education Teachers

　　Teachers for vocational education are mostly graduates from regular higher education institutions. Since 1989, over 160 HEIs have established departments, specialities or classes devoted to the training of vocational education teachers. At the same time, the government began the establishment of teacher training bases for vocational education, Nowadays, there are over 50 training bases set by vocational technical colleges which are affiliated to HEIs and over 200 bases set by central departments and local governments. As a result, a training bases network has basically taken shape, meeting the needs of teacher training for vocational education of various forms and at various levels.

　　3.The Increase of the Quality and Level of Vocational Education

　　During the past 50 years, especially the 20 years after reform and opening to the outside world, much attention has been paid to the quality and level of vocation education as well as the schooling efficiency. Meanwhile its scale has been extraordinary expanded. By the end of 2001, more than 3000 key and pilot vocational schools have been established, promoting the overall development of vocational education.

　　4.The Primary Fruits of the Teaching Reform of Vocational Education

　　Learning the foreign modern vocational education thought and teaching patterns to improve the level of teaching is an important component of the reform of vocational education, For example, the "dual-track system " of Germany, the educational and training pattern based on the ability in Australia and Canada, the Employment Education Structure (MES) advocated by the World Labor Organization, the " Skill Courses for Starting Small Enterprises" initiated by the UNECO and the " Business and Trade Simulated Company" springing up widely all over the world, all became the models for the reform of Chinese vocational education in China.

　　5.Rapid Development of Vocational Education in Rural Areas

　　Since the 1980's, significant progress has been made in vocational education in rural areas of China with its quantity greatly enlarged and quality greatly improved.
6. More and More Important Role Played by Research on Vocational Education
With the development of vocational education, research on vocational education has been enhanced and a number of vocational education research institutions have been established, organizing the full-time and part-time research teams composed jointly by administrative departments responsible for vocational education, research institutions, vocational schools and academic organizations, carrying out various forms of vocational education research at different levels.

International Cooperation and Exchanges on Chinese Vocational Education

　　Internationalization has become a common trend for the reform and development of modern education in the world. Along with the reform and opening to the outside world, China has been actively engaged in the international cooperation and exchanges in the field of vocational education. During the past 20 years, the government has sent many delegations to over 20 countries and districts where vocational education is well-developed and shows their unique characteristics to learn successful foreign experience. At the same time, China has received many foreign vocational education delegations, invited foreign experts to give lectures in China, and jointly provided education with foreign vocational education institutions to promote the development of Chinese vocational education, China has also made more and more contact with the UNESCO, UNDP, world Labor Organization, UNPF, APEC and other international organizations while the bilateral cooperation and exchanges between China and other countries has been increasingly expanded.

Adsale Exhibition Services Limited

YIWU HOSIERY & GARMENT INDUSTRIES
Date: 14-NOV-07 to 16-NOV-07
With the focus on runway shows bringing energy and media attention to China, market opens in November to meet the early demand of high-end boutiques and retailers specializing in young designer & advanced contemporary wears. This is the time to shop the international collections and others that close their books early on the season.
Venue: China Commodity City Exhibition Centre, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China.


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ETC Expo
Date: 29-FEB-08 to 02-MAR-08
ETC Expo sets the platform for meeting a remarkable audience of prospective students. Shenzhen, being the first Special Economic Zone in the country, and the only Chinese city with well-developed infrastructure of seaport, airport and inland port, it is poised to be the gateway for foreign enterprises to go into the vast China market.
Venue: Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.


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Printing South China
Date: 04-MAR-08 to 07-MAR-08
Printing South China, South China International Industry and Symposium on Pre-Press and Printing Industries.
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.


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Sino Label
Date: 04-MAR-08 to 07-MAR-08
Sino Label is an International exhibition and conference for the labeling & converting industry.
Venue: Chinese Export Commodities Fairground, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.


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CHINA DRINKTEC
Date: 04-MAR-08 to 07-MAR-08
CHINA DRINKTEC is an International Exhibition on Beverage, Brewery and Wine Technology. It presents an international range of products and services in the area of beverage and liquid food technology.
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.


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Sino Pack
Date: 04-MAR-08 to 07-MAR-08
Sino Pack is the premier exhibition of packaging and processing machinery, materials and associated technology in China. Sino Pack is your opportunity to present your products and solutions live and in person to a dedicated buying audience.
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.


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Sino Print
Date: 04-MAR-08 to 07-MAR-08
Sino Print is an International Exhibition and Symposium on Pre-press and Printing Industries.
Venue: Chinese Export Commodities Fairground, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.


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Woodworking & Furniture Exhibition (WMF China)
Date: 07-MAR-08 to 10-MAR-08
International Exhibition on Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Manufacturing Equipment features a complete package of information for manufacturers seeking the latest competitive solutions. In addition to the wide variety of solutions available on the show floor, International Exhibition on Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Manufacturing Equipment also includes several high level education sessions focusing on the toughest challenges facing the industry today and in the future.
Venue: China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China.


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WMF Beijing
Date: 07-MAR-08 to 10-MAR-08
WMF Shunde features a complete package of information for manufacturers seeking the latest competitive solutions. In addition to the wide variety of solutions available on the show floor, WMF Beijing also includes several high level education sessions focusing on the toughest challenges facing the industry today and in the future.
Venue: China International Exhibition Center, Beijing, China.


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China International Logistics Technology & Services Expo
Date: 19-MAR-08 to 21-MAR-08
China International Logistics Technology & Services Expo is a showcase of the latest in ideas and technology in the defense industry. Offers direct contact to all levels of government and industry decision makers.
Venue: Suzhou International Expo Center, Suzhou, Anhui, China.


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China Shoes
Date: 16-APR-08 to 18-APR-08
China Shoes (China Dongguan International Fair for shoes) is the country's premier and most international exhibition for sourcing the full range of leather sector requirements - high grade hides and skins, leathermaking chemicals, machinery and technology, semi-processed and finished leathers, footwear manufacturing equipment, materials and components.
Venue: Dongguan International Conference & Exhibition Centre, Dongguan, Guangdong, China.


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Chinaplas
Date: 17-APR-08 to 20-APR-08
Chinaplas is an international regional-leading trade fair for plastics and rubber industries. For 21st successful versions It is known to be the leading specialized exhibition of its kind in the Asia. It is considered to be the natural venue for plastics machineries and materials manufacturers interested in international expansion for their products throughout the Asia as the traders and investors for the region will be marking this event on their calendar as a must attend event.
Venue: Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai, China.


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AUTO CHINA - Beijing Automotive Industry Exhibition
Date: 22-APR-08 to 28-APR-08
AUTO CHINA - Beijing Automotive Industry Exhibition will be a forum where global auto brands compete with each other to offer the latest and best in every category, from an entire new generation of vehicles to state-of-the-art components. Besides personal cars, the outdoor exhibit area will also display commercial, heavy utilities, construction and earthmoving vehicles.
Venue: China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China.


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Electrical China
Date: 12-NOV-08 to 14-NOV-08
International Exhibition on Electrical Engineering, Electrical Equipment & Contractors Supplies, features a spectrum of equipment, systems & technology on electric power, electrical engineering, building & industrial power usage, and newly 'Renewable Energy & New Energy' zone, with pavilions from Germany, UK, USA, France, Czech Republic, Korea & Singapore.
Venue: China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China.


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EP CHINA
Date: 12-NOV-08 to 14-NOV-08
EP China / Electrical China 2008, the only electric power expo in China organized by the China Electricity Council and endorsed by UFI Approved Event, are supported by major Power Group Corporation & Power Grid Corporation of China. The twin expo features a spectrum of equipment and technology on power generation, power T&D, automation equipment, environmental power, electrical products cs by renowned local and international brands.
Venue: China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China.


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Vietnam Electronics
Date: 26-NOV-08 to 29-NOV-08
Vietnam Electronics, International Exhibition on Power, Electrical Equipment & Contractors' SuppliesFind the export-quality products that you need direct from Chinese manufacturers, at the Vietnam Electronics- the largest electronics trade show of its kind. A conference is held at the same time as the fair. Experts from ministries and industry will there discuss the technical and economic future of the Chinese electronics.
Venue: Ho Chi Minh City International Exhibition & Convention Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

China Council For the Promotion of International Trade

China Xiamen International Stone Fair (CXISF 2008)
Date: 06-MAR-08 to 09-MAR-08
China Xiamen International Stone Fair (CXISF 2008) ensures that the exhibitors here will meet the best cooperators and capture more business opportunities; the buyers here can find various products at the right price and quality in a short period of time. It will make your purchasing trip more effective and convenient.
Venue: Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Centre, Xiamen, Fujian, China.

China Building

Start Date 26-MAR-08
End Date 29-MAR-08

Event Profile: China Building Exhibition takes place annually in Beijing, the capital of Beijing. With development of the last 10 editions, China Building Exhibition is expanding year by year. Thanks to the great support from relative government department and association, the annual event is one of the most important building materials exhibitions in China and it is just a showcase for the development of China construction and Building materials.
Venue:
Beijing Exhibition Centre
Beijing , China

Stonetech Shanghai
Date: 08-APR-08 to 11-APR-08
STONETECH is the leading trade fair for natural stone & stone technology in China. STONETECH rendered another big surprise to both exhibitors and trade visitors. It took up the whole CIEC fairground with a total size of 65,000 sqm. 816 exhibitors from China, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, Spain, Morocco, Egypt, Greece, North America etc took part in the grand event.
Venue: Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai, China.

Shanghai International Wine & Spirits Fair (SIWSF 2008)
Date: 17-JUN-08 to 19-JUN-08
Shanghai International Wine & Spirits Fair (SIWSF 2008) aims to capture and develop this exciting market alongside with China's rapid economic growth. The fair will attract thousands of interested parties from China and overseas enabling them to communicate freely and directly and therefore develop new business.
Venue: Shanghai Everbright Convention & Exhibition Center, Shanghai, China

Interparking
Date: 15-OCT-08 to 17-OCT-08
Interparking provides not only an ideal platform for exhibitors to enter, expand and consolidate their position in the marketplace of China, but also an effective way to get involved in the construction of World Expo Shanghai.
Venue: Intex Shanghai, Shanghai, China.