Located in the southern corner of Yunnan Province, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture is one of China’s most ideal cold-weather getaway resorts. While land at similar latitude in other parts of the world is basically occupied by desert and savanna, Xishuangbanna is home to a tropical rain forest. In addition to an abundance of plants, the rain forest is also home to peacocks and precious Asian elephants.

Xishuangbanna features a warm climate and remains green throughout the year. Its climate features only two seasons: rainy and dry. While the rainy season lasts for five months, from late May to late October, the dry season lasts for seven months. Precipitation during the rainy season accounts for more than 80 percent of its annual total.

Xishuangbanna borders Laos and Myanmar. The prefecture covers a total area of 20,000 square kilometers and boasts strong ethnic flavor. It is the home of 13 ethnic groups, including the Dai, Hani, Lahu, Bulang, and Jinuo people, which combine to account for 74 percent of the prefecture’s total population. Not surprisingly, Xishuangbanna is an important passageway and base for Yunnan’s connection with Southeast Asia.

Sunglasses, umbrellas, and swimsuits are essential for tourists visiting Xishuangbanna. No matter when you come, bring your summer jacket.

Thailand’s Chengdu Office

The Tourism Authority of Thailand opened a new office recently in southwest China’s city of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, to meet growing market demand.

The Thai authority now operates four offices on the Chinese mainland, with others in Beijing, Shanghai and Kunming, revealed Narumit Hinshiranan, consul-general of the Thai consulate in Chengdu.  

Expanding Presence in China

Several Asian hotel chains are planning their moves into the Chinese marketplace, pledging to build dozens of structures in the next five years to serve the country’s rapid urbanization, thriving middle class and growing popularity as an international destination. China has become one of the hottest markets for the hospitality industry.  

Ice Fishing

China’s National Ice-fishing Invitational recently kicked off in Yinchuan, the capital city of northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

The event attracted over 220 fishing enthusiasts from across China. Ultimately, Tang Yuankun from Lingwu County of Ningxia won the grand prize of 10,000 yuan (about US$1,650).  

New Year Gold Craze

Jewelry and gold products have become Beijingers’ most favored items for the New Year, as evidenced by a huge sales boom in the city’s jewelry stores during the three-day holiday from January 1 to 3.

The precious metals and stones are considered ideal gifts, especially as a method to conserve wealth in times of inflation.  

“Pervasion” in Beijing

Recently, an exhibition called “Pervasion” opened at Enjoy Museum of Art, Beijing. The China Pavilion, also titled “Pervasion,” was a great success at the 54th international art exhibition of Venice Biennale. Furthering this theme, aromatic tea, lotus flowers, wine, herbs and incense were presented as Chinese cultural icons.

Peng Feng, mastermind behind the exhibition, revealed his plan to tour the exhibition through other Chinese cities as well as internationally.