China
This is definitely one of the countries which have the rich heritage intact while developing. The geography provides a variety of formations like high peaks, valleys, seas, precious rivers, and deserts. Their love for art is visible almost everywhere. What’s more interesting than the art works and the surroundings, is the interesting folk literature it has. Grab some of the stories from the elder generation to make your visit more pleasant.
Travel to China: Beijing Capital International Airport is one of the prominent aerodromes. This is about 28km from the busy capital – Beijing. China’s international airline is Air China. It is said that the flights are crowded so pre-book the flights sooner. The visa and ticket details are available at the nearest consulate. The other flights that render their services are Thai Airways, British Airways, Mongolian Airlines, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Fin Air, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Air France, Aeroflot and more. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to take you to the city. Money Exchange facilities are also available at the airport.
Another International airport is located at Guangzhou. 12km from the city is the Guangzhou Baiyun International and it takes about 30 min to reach the city.
As China is a big country domestic flights are accessible to convey you to the desired destination. Bus and rail facilities can also be used.
Attractions:
Great Wall of China: This is the spot that flashes across our mind whenever we think of China. It is said that this wonder is one of the megastructures that prevails and the longest one too. It was built to safeguard the kingdom from invasions. Qin Shi Huangdi who was the first emperor of China constructed it before more than 2000 yrs ago during the Qin Dynasty. Built in parts it became the Great Wall in the Ming Dynasty which stretches up to 6,350km. This is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Several watch towers and battle forts can be seen that date back to history. The methods they have undergone to protect the empire can also be seen.
Potala Palace: This is another World Heritage site which was the chief residence of the Dalai Lama. The White Palace here constitutes the home of Dalai Lama, seminary, offices and printing house. The sacred gold stupas, chapels and shrines, the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas, monk’s assembly halls and libraries that preserve Buddhist writings present a Buddhist scent. The Red Palace here has held religious prayer and study of the Buddhists. The galleries present phenomenal art works. A scenic park at the back the palace provides a divine retreat.
Language: The languages of China are derived from the Sino-Tibetan family and there are various dialects within the language. Mandarin is spoken by the majority of the population. This is widely used and taught in schools. The other dialects would be Shanghainese, Cantonese, Min, Hakka, Gan and Xiang. Languages spoken by the minorities would be Tibetan, Zhuang, Hmong, Mongolian, Korean and Uyghur. English is so regularly used that even the road sign are written in it.
Shopping: China is famous for its jade, silk products and antique ceramics. Beautiful handicrafts are magnifying in China and it’s hard to resist. Other products to look for are porcelain, glassware, Jewellery, terracotta images, calligraphy (each one has a significant meaning), Feng Shui artefacts for increasing all kinds of positive energy, herbs, embroidery, hand made carpets, wood designs, stone works, sculpture works, bamboo handiworks, tea and more. Regular products like clothes, books and expensive electronic equipment etc. can also be bought. A red seal is marked over 100yr old antiques and to bring them back home an export customs certificate is essential. Bargaining in departmental stores and other shops don’t happen but bargaining is freely practiced in open markets and they sell quality products at a good price too.
Destinations:
Beijing: This is the bustling capital of China. It is a cultural, economic, political and educational hub. Domestic flights cater to this city. It has a warm temperature with lovely monsoons. Go for a hiking tour to the Great Wall, visit the Forbidden City, see a traditional opera and a concert or delve into the local cuisine. Anyway, your visit here is sure to be memorable.
Shanghai: Located and the Yangtze River delta, Shanghai is regarded as China’s economical hub. There are several museums, temples and cathedrals here. Markets here provide a wide variety for shoppers. When here, go on an exciting cruise on the Yangtze and call it your day. September to November is the best time to visit but if you are a festive buff then Chinese New Year is the perfect time.
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