Are you considering a vacation to China? Rich in culture and deeply hospitable, the Chinese people welcome tourists and it’s rich history and colorful traditions are sure to keep travelers well entertained during their stay.

Visiting Shanghai

Shanghai is one of China’s largest cities and is rich with activities for the visiting foreigner. It would be similar to visiting New York City in the United States. Shanghai is home to The Garden of Contentment, a 500 acre garden full of beautiful Chinese horticulture at it’s finest. The garden is divided into six separate garden cells: The Grand Rockery, The Ten ThousandFlower Pavilion, The Lotus Pool, The Inner Garden, The Hall of Heralding Spring and The Hall of Jade Magnificence. Nanjing Lu Road is a shoppers paradise. It features art galleries, shops, and restaurants all overflowing with rich Chinese culture. Be sure to brush up your bargaining skills before heading out to Nanjing Lu. You can often get a bargain price by haggling with the shopkeeper for a price you can write home about. Highly recommended hotels in Shanghai are: Le Royal Miridian on Nanjing Dong Rd., with an average room price of $259,and the Crowne Plaza Hotel Fudan in the Yangpu District for about $94.

Visiting Beijing

Beijing is filled with Chinese history and great architecture. It features the Forbidden City, a 250 acre estate with more than 9,000 rooms. The palace complex was built in the early 15th century. With it’s historic castle and inspiring architecture it’s a wonder to behold.

Tiananmen Square is found in Beijing as well and hosts many colorful parades and massive rallies. It features historic monuments and great architecture. The Great Wall of China is a must see when traveling to China and the most popular place to begin your tour of the Wall is in Beijing. The Great Wall stretches for over 3700 miles and is an awesome site and provides for panoramic photograph opportunities. Near Beijing, cable cars lift passengers onto the Wall where you can begin an exploration hike along the ancient steps and view China from its heights. While booking lodging in Beijing, The Peninsula offers rooms at around $246 a night and The Holiday Inn Central Plaza Beijing charges around $103. Another popular option is the Shangri La Beijing on Zizhuyuan Road. A room will cost you about $200 a night.

Visiting Hong Kong

Hong Kong has its own Disneyland. While the park is smaller than other Disney parks, the staff’s friendliness more than makes up for the small real estate. This stop is a must for all Mouse fans and will make your trip memorable for the whole family.

Hotels in Hong Kong that come highly recommended by other tourists are: Langhan Place Hotel at $224 a night, The Ritz Carlton Hong Kong at $359, and the Harbour Plaza Hong Kong at around $209 a night.