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.
Friday, November 9, 2007
China has 345,000 millionaires
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.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
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 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.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
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 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.
Monday, November 5, 2007
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.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Going On Vacation With Your Children
So you've made up your mind that you are going on a family vacation. And the next question is – where to? There are many places for a family vacation but not all of them will have what you need for an enjoyable trip. Since you are going together with your children, they will need to be the key point to consider if you are all to have a great vacation.
A requent choice for family vacations with children is Las Vegas or Reno in Nevada. In my view, these are less than ideal -- these cities are not family destinations, no matter what efforts the tourism industries in both cities (Las Vegas especially) make.
Both Las Vegas and Reno offer very little attractions for children. And they do not offer anything special which cannot be found elsewhere. If you are thinking about visiting Las Vegas, perhaps you are hoping for at least some gambling. Gambling does not bode well for a successful family vacation with children.
The preferred choice for many parents with children is Disney theme parks. These parks are often the best choice for children over five and under twelve. Children over twelve may well still like it, too. Children under five, especially those under three, might find it difficult to spend the whole day there and later they will hardly remember their visit to Disney.
Do not forget, however, that a lot of energy is required for a vacation at Disney. These parks are not a good choice for a relaxing trip, because as a rule they are crowded and there are so many new things to see. With younger children, it can get especially hard in the afternoons.
If you prefer to go on a relaxing vacation with your children, why not think of Hawaii? Although Hawaii is not advertised as a resort for children, depending in which island you are staying at, there is still a variety of entertainment for children.
Hawaii is a good choice for slightly older children -- let’s say over ten -- because many of its attractions are geared to individuals over that age. For instance Pearl Harbor – younger children will have no way to understand what is so special about that place.
Another suggestion for a family vacation with children is cruise ships. When choosing to spend your vacation on a cruise ship, there are some important facts to consider. First, it is most likely that you will share a cabin with your family and there won’t be enough room for everybody's liking. But since there are so many things to do outside the cabin, it shouldn’t be too much of a problem to view the cabin as a sleeping spot rather than a permanent hang-out.
Also, cruise ships are not the ideal choice for teenagers. Teenagers are in a difficult position because on one hand the majority of programs for children are targeted at children under twelve and on the other hand, teenagers are still not old enough to participate in entertainment for adults (casinos, lounges, etc.) But in any case there is the benefit that you will witness marvelous ocean views and will visit many different ports. Watch out for whales!
The conclusion is that choosing the destination for your family vacation is firmly up to you! You are the one who knows best what is interesting for your children and what is not. Take into account what is suitable for them and what is preferred by you, choose a destination or vacation package which offers the best combination of things which appeal to all of you -- and you're halfway to a great trip already.
Heads of some 50 countries confirm attendance of Beijing Olympics
At a briefing in New York, Liu reiterated Beijing's determination to fulfill its promise to improve the air quality and provide good conditions for the athletes from around the world.
Despite the progress made so far, Beijing still faces challenges, he said. The State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) and the Beijing municipality are working on measures to respond to any unexpected weather conditions and providing a good environment for the athletes in their competitions, he said.
"We will ensure a clean Olympics free of doping as we will use a sophisticated test center and enhance cooperation with the World Anti-Doping Agency," he said.
Liu said Beijing has enough volunteers to serve the Olympic and Paralympic Games next year as the number of the applicants has already surpassed what is required.
BOCOG Ticketing Center halts domestic ticket sales as demand surges
The head of the BOCOG Ticketing Center said Tuesday that after careful consideration and discussions with the relevant technical partners, and to ensure the interests of the public, BOCOG has decided to temporarily halt the domestic ticket sales in the second phase to improve the technical plan and will announce new ticketing information on November 5.
The second phase of domestic ticket sales for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, launched Tuesday morning, was met with an unprecedented rise in ticket demand from the general public. Within the first hour, from 9:00am to 10:00am, the page view (PV) volume of the official ticketing website of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games (http://tickets.beijing2008.com) soared to eight million, while the number of calls to the ticketing hotline (+8610 952008) exceeded 3.8 million.
Because of the overwhelming volume of page visits, the technical system was unable to perform the tasks well enough, and many applicants were unable to successfully submit their applications. The BOCOG Ticketing Center expressed regret for any inconvenience experienced by the applicants in the process of purchasing tickets.
Tuesday morning's turnout for the ticket sale fully reflected the Chinese people's longing and support for the Olympic Games. There were long queues at BOCOG-designated Bank of China (BOC) branches; some applicants had waited in line since Monday. Many others had sat in front of the computer for a long time, waiting to access the ticketing website and to submit their orders. Meanwhile those who chose to purchase their tickets by phone had been constantly calling the hotline since early morning.
In regard to the communications jam caused by the excessive page visits, the official explained that the ticketing center had underestimated the demand from the public, resulting in shortcomings in the preparations and causing inconvenience to ticket buyers.
"We sincerely apologize to the general public," the official said.
The official confirmed that the successful orders of the Olympic tickets on Tuesday through the three channels -- via the Internet, telephone, or at the Bank of China branches -- will remain valid. The applications of those who registered their ID information at BOC branches and call centers on Tuesday will be processed immediately once the ticket sales begin again.
Tianjin Travel Guide
Tianjin is one of the four municipalities in China. Its name means 'the place where the emperor crossed the river'. In recent years Tianjin has received more and more attention from both tourists at home and abroad due to its numerous travel resources and rich history.
It is no exaggeration to say that Tianjin bears a splendid historical background. However, it was desecrated by foreign invaders long before the foundation of People's Republic of China. Tianjin was shared by nine countries: Italy, Germany, France, Russia, Great Britain, Austria, Japan and Belgium. This marked an extremely hard period for Tianjin and her people because those imperialist countries left permanent marks in her body, most notable of which were thousands of villas. Today those villas provide an exotic flavor to Tianjin, enhancing the beauty of the entire city.
Blessed with variety of tourist attractions, Tianjin is a good place to explore. The top ten attractions in Tianjin, known as Jinmen Shijing, are Gu Wenhua Jie, Dagu Emplacement, Huangyaguan Great Wall, Dule Temple, Haihe River, Water Park, Panshan Mountain, Hotel Street and Food Street, Tianjin TV & Radio Tower and Zhonghuan Cailian. There are also many natural scenes of beauty as well as great historical events.
Getting in and out of the city is convenient because of the well-planned transportation system. If you want to come by water, there are a series of international and domestic sea routes in the port of Tianjin, which is the biggest man-made port in China. If you plan to arrive by air, Tianjin Binhai International Airport offers excellent service. Planes have routes that reach most of the major cities in China and also cities in Europe and America. Of course, arriving in Tianjin by land is another option, while trains or long-distance buses are yet another alternative.
Various hotels, guesthouses and hostels can also meet your different needs. In addition, there are all types of entertainment available to relax both your body and mind.
Beijing airport provides express channel for tour groups
Tour groups leaving China from Beijing Capital International Airport can save time following the establishment of an express channel. The service is open to groups of 25 passengers or more and is designed to reduce the time from checkout to boarding gate to three minutes. Each of the group passengers will need to fill out an application form in advance and the passenger service center staff will help the group make preparations and go through all necessary procedures. The application form is available in the airport and on the homepage of Beijing Capital International Airport, and passengers can also apply by telephone, fax or email.
Qingdao coasts to sail-city status
The Zhanqiao Pier, located in the Qingdao Bay, is considered one of the key symbols of the coastal city.
Life in Qingdao is leisurely - drinking beer, enjoying the local seafood and bathing in the sea. A day can be passed very pleasantly just wandering through this attractive coastal city.
Long described as the "Oriental Switzerland" due to its abundance of European architecture, Qingdao is now transforming itself into the Olympic sailing city.
It was interesting and a real adventure to be aboard a sailing boat at Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center in advance of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. As a member of the media team invited to report on the 2007 Shangri-La Sailing Competition, I was lucky enough to sail on a 32-foot (9.75-meter) Flying Tiger sail boat and view the whole race as it unfolded.
Skippered by two professional sailing coaches, their task appeared straightforward but it was anything but. The slightest pull on the wrong ropes can cause big trouble. Mastering the natural power of the wind requires a lot of skill.
A total of 14 international companies such as Durex, Emerson Motor, Maersk Container and Shangri-La Hotels participated in the race. Each team had a crew of six - a mix of male and female expatriates and Chinese - who had all undergone three months of training before the competition.
"We call ourselves Shang Knights," said Wen Zhiping, general manager of the Shanghri-La Hotel Qingdao, and the team's helmsman. "To be honest, forming a Shangri-La team was not easy. We didn't realize that a lot of Chinese are afraid to go on the boat since they cannot swim. Moreover, we had to ensure that those on the team could commit to the training schedule despite our busy hotel operations.
"It was hilarious at the beginning and very confusing trying to understand wind directions and managing the sails. The girls screamed when the yacht tilted. Subsequent training became more fun as each crew member got to understand their roles better," Wen said.
In spite of being amateurs, each team member had quick and neat movements and cooperated well with each other during the competition. Dotted in the sea, the white canvases of the 14 boats made a spectacular contrast with the blue sea and sky.
As the competitors wrestled with their sails, photographers and reporters on the media boat floated leisurely by in a gentle breeze with a beautiful view of the coastline.
Located at Fushan Bay in the East New Zone of Qingdao, this sailing center is adjacent to the May 4th Square, one of Qingdao's scenic spots. At the square's center is a red sculpture called May Breeze, the city's main landmark.
"The competition was an opportunity to showcase the natural charm of Qingdao to both domestic and foreign visitors and it provided a platform for companies to develop a community spirit in the city," Wen said. "Maersk Container Industry Qingdao Ltd took first prize in the race, but in our eyes, everyone was a champion."
Qingdao's spirit of "Sailing with Heart and Sailing to Success" also reminds people of how Tsingtao beer has successfully sailed into beer markets around the world.
On this visit I made the trip to the Tsingtao Beer Museum.
The huge centennial sculpture outside the museum causes all visitors to stop and stare. Located at the birthplace of Tsingtao beer, 56 Dengzhou Road, where for more than a century quality beer for both the domestic and international market has been brewed, the museum combines a sense of history with a truly modern setting.
Established in August 2003, the 6,000-square-meter museum brings the beer's century-old history and culture to life through its display of sugaring workshops, brewing labs, raw materials, traditional fermentation, new filter plants and packaging workouts.
"The city takes pride in its beer and so do its people," said Zhou Longbo, a native tour guide. "The local residents used to use a reinforced plastic bag to hold the beer they bought from grocery stores."
At the end of the tour, a sample of the beer was served to each visitor. To taste more, the Tsingtao Beer Bar on the first floor, which can hold 100 people, provides a last stop before browsing for souvenirs.
Besides the tasty beer, another impressive and sweet thing in Qingdao is the number of wedding couples in their costumes and having their photo taken at the famed Badaguan Scenic Area.
Named after the eight passes of the Great Wall, it features a vast array of different trees such as peach, crabapple, pines and ginkgoes which grow along each avenue and provide a beautiful environment all year round.
Qingdao, as a coastal city at the southern tip of the Shandong Peninsula, boasts a total of seven beaches in the urban area. However, many other cultural relics such as the Catholic Church built by Germans in 1934; Zhanqiao Pier, the symbol of Qingdao; four-storied German castle style guest house in Xinhaoshan Hill Park; and Laoshan Mountain featuring steep peaks and grotesque stones contribute to the city's fame nationally.
Great Wall Listed in New Seven Great Wonders of the World
The Great Wall is listed among the "New Seven Great Wonders of the World" in an online vote.
The campaign to voting for the "New Seven Great Wonders of the World" was started by a foundation established by Swiss explorer Bernard Weber in 1999. The number of final candidates was narrowed down from 180 to 77 and then from 77 to 21. Finally, 21 places of interest all over the world entered the final run.
It is said 20 million people have taken part. The top seven include the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, the Colosseum in Rome, the Easter Island Statues, the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu of Peru, the Pyramids of Egypt and the Taj Mahal of India.
The Great Wall of China currently occupies fourth place in the rankings.
Hefty investment set aside for Tibet's highway construction
Tibet Autonomous Region in southwest China will spend 5.7 billion yuan (about 703 million U.S. dollars) on highway construction across the plateau region this year.
Zhao Shijun, chief of the Tibet Autonomous regional bureau of communications, said that this year they will start construction on 21 highway projects and continue to build nine other road projects including upgrading the highway connecting Nepal.
Known as the "roof of the world", Tibet has long had poor roadways.
Up to now, highways have still not reached more than 1,000 villages in Tibet, while only half the region's roads in 73 counties have been topped with asphalt, said Zhao.
The central Chinese government invested 14.65 billion yuan (about 1.81 billion U.S. dollars) in improving transport conditions in Tibet over the past five years building and upgrading roads and highways with a total length of 12,926 km.