China is an Asian giant located towards eastern Asia and is the world’s most populous country. Spanning over 9.6 million square kilometers, the People’s Republic of China is the second largest country with reference to size. China happens to be the world’s second largest economy as well as the world’s fastest growing major economy. The Chinese are one of the oldest civilizations to have survived so far the timeline and have been successful in preserving much of their original culture unlike most advanced civilizations.
Emerging as the new world superpower, China has a distinct advantage over many major countries in terms of economy as well as military. With an active troop of 2.3 million, the People’s Liberation Army is the largest army in the world as well as one of the most advanced. China is indeed one of the most, if not the most, flourishing countries in the world.
China is not just a newly born country that came into existence during the 20th century. It is a civilization that has existed since long before we know. It has come strong through trials and tribulations, overcoming obstacles, and has proven itself in the eyes of the international community.
China has some of the world’s largest and most advanced cities that are as alive as a city can be. Cities like Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Xi’an offer attractions that are more than anyone can enjoy in a single lifetime. China’s gift to you: some of the world’s most breathtaking and awe-inspiring sights such as The Forbidden City, The Terracotta Warriors, Karst Mountains, Hangzhou, Beijing Palace Museum, Potala Palace and of course; The Great Wall of China.
Most people think of the Chinese as an intimidating and stern communist force. However, you will notice that the Chinese are in fact the sweetest, friendliest and most helpful of people you have ever met.
Whether you are in Shanghai, Beijing or any other part of China, it is extremely easy to get your hands on the best Chinese cuisine you have ever had. Even though Chinese food is available in any restaurant worth a damn, the Chinese food that is actually made in China will be a unique experience all together.
Being a country of an area so massive, that most probably spreads an area several times more than your own, the climate ranges from tropical to subarctic, depending on the region. The southern regions see heavy rains as well as monsoon during July, August and September whereas the west has comparatively lesser rainfall. The north is usually warm and dry while the south remains cooler as compared to the north.
For domestic travel when the Chinese airports are more crowded are during the Chinese holidays such as the Chinese New Year, Labor Day and the National Day. These occur more or less around the Gregorian calendar holidays with the Chinese New Year in January/February, Labor Day around 1st of May and the National Day around 1st of October. Even though the airports are more crowded during the periods, it is worth travelling there as most of the exciting festivities are happening. Make you sure you research and plan which festival you want to see, before you come, as there are numerous different activities throughout the year that are all refreshingly exciting and it may get difficult to make a timely decision.
The peak season for Hong Kong is during October, November and December whereas it’s the summers for Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. However, if you want to be able to travel comfortably then autumn (September to early October) should be your choice as the temperatures are reasonable throughout China with only occasional drizzling.
Even with a population of over 1.35 billion, China maintains a relatively smooth transit system, with highly advanced networks of transportation and one of the biggest and busiest rail networks in the world. The trains link almost every town & city. Chinese trains are a safe, comfortable & cheap way to travel around China, and a Chinese train journey is an experience in itself. For in-city commuting, the local buses and trains are ideal, however if you want to cover larger distances flying is the best way. China has over 450 airports that allow frequent and precise flights. The fares are, also, generally low.
China is an experience one should have at least once in a lifetime. Whether you travel on business or come here on a vacation, you would most certainly want to come again.