9999.5 Rooms In This Palace
Spanning over 178 acres of land, the Forbidden City, or the Zijin Cheng is a major tourist attraction in Beijing. Also known as the Imperial Palace, the building dates back around 500 years, though it was recently reopened for public after repairs in 1949. Surrounded by 7.9 meter high city walls, the Forbidden City was protected by a six meter deep and 52 meter wide moat as well. That though, did not stop this monumental building from being sacked multiple times and be razed to the ground completely by the Manchus.
Although the original building had pillars in the important halls of the valuable Phoebe zhennan wood, the reconstruction by the Qing Dynasty replaced the pillars with pinewood ones and, unlike the original pillars, these are not whole logs used lavishly. The interesting aspect of the Palace’s construction was the transportation of the stone used in the construction of the terraces. According to historians, the builders dug wells along the roads from the queries to the construction sites and poured water on the road to get the thin ice in the winters so they could slide the heavy stones to their destination.
The 9999.5 rooms the palace boasts, is just half a room short of what is believed to be the number of rooms in heaven itself. The half room has a staircase in it that keeps the building from matching the heavens. The building is still intimidating with its huge courtyards and imposing gates. The ceremonial halls include the three halls of Harmony, and the inner courtyard holds the Palace of Heavenly Purity. The symbolic wall art, the evocative messages, all add to the beauty and value of the site. While the government tries to keep commercialism down, souvenir shops are still never too far and you can have photographs of this monumental structure as well.
Throughout its long history, and even as recently as 1949 when China declared itself a People’s Republic, the Imperial Palace was persistently damaged by lootings, conquests and even the Cultural Revolution. The Palace today does not hold all its treasures within the Imperial Museum, however, for what it depicts and whatever it still has, its cultural and historical importance is undeniable. Every year millions of tourists throng its courtyards to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For those visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing, Redwall Hotel Beijing is a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel is not only close to some major tourist spots in the city, it is close enough to shopping centers as well for those interested in the modern China. With 200 modern rooms and those geared at depicting China’s cultural heritage, the Redwall Hotel Beijing holds the country’s culture at its heart and serves Western as well as Chinese delicacies in the restaurant and the Glanviue Coffee Bar
China As A Honeymoon Or Romantic Getaway?
Today Norm Goldman, Editor SKETCHANDTRAVEL.COM and BOOKPLEASURES.COM is pleased to have as a guest Shelley Jiang, editor of LET’S GO CHINA, 6th Edition, one of 57 guidebooks published by the bestselling budget series from LET’S GO PUBLICATIONS.
Good Day Shelley and thank you for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.
NORM:
Please tell our readers something about yourself and your expertise pertaining to China.
SHELLEY:
Born in China, I spent the first six years of my life in Beijing, the city that I will always think of as my first home. Though I moved to America and attended school there, I remain deeply connected with China through books, news, movies, family, and spending summers there every two or three years. During these summer trips, I often travel around the country and have visited many of the places in Let’s Go: China.
NORM:
Would you consider China a good choice for a romantic getaway or wedding and honeymoon destination? Why?
SHELLEY:
China is vast enough to offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a fast-paced weekend in Shanghai, a trip into China’s gorgeous outdoors, or an immersion in centuries of tradition and history. But don’t come expecting Paris or the Caribbean—China isn’t your average romantic getaway, but a destination for the free-spirited and adventurous. No resorts or pampering here—part of the excitement and romance of a vacation in China is experiencing a new culture and taking in the grit as well as the beauty.
For those willing to ditch the conventional and leave the beaten path, breathtaking natural sights and unique cultural experiences await. Otherworldly landscapes familiar from many a martial arts film (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero) can serve as the backdrop for your personal love story as well. Ancient palaces, pagodas, and temples invites travelers to step back into a past that stretches more than 5000 years. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai proudly showcase their past alongside their future, with skyscrapers rising one after another and an urban culture to rival those of any American or European city.
NORM:
What is the best time to visit China from the point of view of weather, costs, crowds, and the availability of flights from the USA, Canada and Europe and Australia, etc?
SHELLEY:
China’s peak travel times are around Chinese New Year (some time in Jan.-Feb., depending on lunar calendar), May 1st, July-August, and the first week of October. The best time to visit would be from late-April through June, when the weather is warm, students are still in school, and many establishments are still on low season pricing. The fall is also a pleasant time to travel without the crowds (but avoid the Oct. 1st holiday week) and see beautiful foliage, especially in the north.
Airfares to China are most expensive between June and September. Even flying on May 31 instead of Jun. 1st will get you a cheaper flight. Flying September-May will get you much cheaper flights. Plan ahead—the cheapest tickets for summer flights to China sell out by early March.
NORM:
Could you give our readers an idea of the costs involved if travel originates from the USA, Canada and Europe and Australia?
SHELLEY:
China is a budget traveler’s dream come true—with the exception of the airfare, which can cost anywhere from US$600-1500. It’s cheaper to fly from September-May. The best places to find low-fares are Chinese-run travel agencies in Chinatown—check the local Chinese newspaper or ask around to find their listings.
The budget-conscious can often spend anywhere from US$2-10 per night for lodgings in a hostel or basic room, depending on destination. Food can cost as little as US$4 per person per day for meals from street vendors and small family-run restaurants.
Of course, splurges and treats are everywhere. A comfortable hotel room will cost around US$25-50 per night, and lavish suites range from US$60-150 per night. For US$8-25, a couple can dine at fancier restaurants serving distinctive, gourmet cuisines.
The cheapest and most convenient way to get around China is via rail. Short journeys can cost around US$5-12 for a one-way ticket, while longer journeys will cost up to US$50. Expect to pay more than US$100, however, for a private sleeper compartment for two people.
The number of domestic flights in China is on the rise. One-way fares range US$90-200; round-trip fares are always double the one-way fare.
NORM:
If you had to choose 3-5 unequalled venues in China for a romantic getaway, honeymoon or wedding destination, what would they be and why?
SHELLEY:
Jiuzhaigou: Nestled deep in the mountains of northern Sichuan, the “Valley of the Nine Tibetan Villages†is known for its pristine lakes and waterfalls that sparkle a spectrum of shades under the sunshine. You may remember the impossibly blue lakes from the fight sequence filmed here in Hero. Nature lovers can hike beneath the shadow of snowy peaks, experience local Tibetan culture, and in nearby Songpan, embark upon horse treks into the wild. Convenient tourist services are nearby, offering everything from budget lodgings to five-star hotels.
Hangzhou: Those in love with classical China can head to this graceful city of the south and historic dynastic capital. Willows, gardens, pavilions, and delicately arched bridges dot the shores of the West Lake, the setting for ancient China’s most famous love stories. Sip fragrant Dragon Well tea while dining at one of China’s oldest restaurants that once served emperors. The misty waters and city pleasures are enough to captivate anyone; if not nearby Shanghai promises a plunge back into modernity.
Yunnan: This province on the border with Vietnam and Myanmar is the ideal destination for the adventurous, with its 22 colorful ethnic minority cultures and diverse natural scenery. Its capital, Kunming, “City of Eternal Spring,†enchants travelers with flowers on every street, but the true attractions lie in the countryside. Pack your gear for a trek south into tropical rainforests and rice paddies, dotted by Dai villages and gleaming Buddhist stupas. Northern Yunnan is better known as “Shangri-La,†where red-robed monks walk the streets of mountain villages and snowy peaks beckon in the distance.
Xinjiang: Xinjiang takes romance and writes it large upon vast expanses of deserts and horizons. Experience the exoticism of a nomadic lifestyle with camel rides across the dunes and nights under the stars upon China’s last frontier. Or trek up to the legendary Tianshan Mountains overlooking the “Heavenly Pool.†Friendly Uighur musicians will be happy to play at Uighur-style wedding celebrations, filled with tasty food, fresh grapes and melons, and plenty of singing and dancing.
Hong Kong: Hong Kong offers a vacation as sophisticated and exciting as it is expensive. From luxury malls to teeming street markets, Hong Kong easily combines class and chaos. Dinner cruises on Victoria Harbour, stylish hotels and restaurants, and endless clubs, bars, and entertainment options ensure that you’ll never run out of things to do. Macau lures travelers away with its many casinos and Portuguese-influenced cuisine and architecture, but you’ll find yourself back in Hong Kong before long.
NORM:
What should people know about celebrating a wedding in China from the point of view of requirements, experience of the various hotels, etc.
SHELLEY:
Large fancy hotels are readily available, with the best and widest selection obviously being in Beijing and Shanghai. Restaurants make another good venue, and Let’s Go: China lists many of the best restaurants in Beijing. Book months in advance for celebrations in June and August, popular wedding months in China.
China also excels in gorgeously done wedding photo shoots, often involving lavish sets and costumes, professional make-up artists, and more. Popular options include traditional Chinese wedding garb, emperor and empress outfits, and turn of the century cheongsam robes. A full set often includes an entire album’s worth of photos, the cost of which averages US125-300.
NORM:
How far in advance should a couple prepare themselves for their honeymoon, romantic getaway or wedding in China?
SHELLEY:
For the cheapest airfares, it’s best to start planning at least four or five months in advance. Unless you are familiar with the country, it’s best not to leave a trip to China to the last minute.
NORM:
What resources are available on the Internet pertaining to weddings and honeymoon vacations in China?
SHELLEY:
CTRIP offers a great destination guide, often with photographs. Their flight search is helpful for planning, but only those with Chinese credit cards can make reservations.
CHINA TOUR COM provides a wealth of practical information, from visas to currency to vaccines. They also collect news stories related to travel in China, provide information on organized tours, and offer brief guides on Chinese culture.
TRAVEL CHINA GUIDE is another good resource for destination guides.
TRAVEL INFORMATION GUIDE is a forum for those traveling to China.
Thanks Shelley
For westerners traveling to Asia, is it better to vacation in China or Japan?
As I read through the pros for Japan vs. the cons against China in this debate, the common thread against travel to China seems to be the perceptions of the human rights abuses there. As a seasoned Asian traveler I find this an interesting point of view, particularly for those using it to support the argument that it is a risk to the traveler. Politics aside, or even included, as Japan’s historical view of human rights is equally abysmal, my vote is for China.
China and its warm and friendly people is a wonderful travel destination. The hustle and bustle of Shanghai is a worthy rival to that offered in Tokyo, yet at half the cost and with an equally entertaining kitsch and nightlife. The flavorful and spectacularly presented cuisines of China are an Epicurean delight. The variety of natural beauty is unsurpassed in Asia, from the glacial mountains of Sichuan to the idyllic beaches of Hainan. Well preserved relics and monuments to the great historical significance of China can be found it the ancient capitals of Xi’an, Nanjing and modern day Beijing. It is easy to feed the spirit and the soul in the many ornate and elaborate temples, pagodas, and numerous and well-preserved (as well as well attended) European styled cathedrals, functioning relics from China’s periods of occupation. It is easy to see how the poetically inspirational and breathtaking views from the “Five Sacred Mountains” were responsible for some of ancient China’s most memorable art and literature. By almost every measure of what makes for a memorable and enjoyable visit, the Middle Kingdom is up for the task.
It is easy to concede for those least comfortable out of their every day highly convenient and organized environment, the steely and glass monuments of efficiency and cookie cutter culture of Japan might be less threatening. It is certainly more westernized and an industrial and commercial equal in most respects to the US. But for those seeking to truly experience Asia, the warmth, hospitality and genuine curiosity of the Chinese people is unrivaled.
Of course there are negatives, as with any destination. Taxi drivers are on par with their peers worldwide in their ability to cheat you at every opportunity. The industrial pollution rivals that of the worst superfund sites. Professional beggars have become permanent fixtures at all venues where foreigners appear. Airports are overcrowded and often outdated, but manage to safely transport over 500,000 passengers a day. English is not often spoken outside of the main cities and China’s unique form of writing is no less understandable than Japan’s and the poor English translations are no less entertaining.
The great philosopher and political activist Confucius once said; “I hear I forget, I see I remember, I do I understand”. Before writing off China as a travel destination on the often-biased words of others, experience first hand the fond memories that await you there. Only then can you truly know.
A History Of The Modern Olympics 1960 – 1988
This August (8th-24th) sees Beijing, China, hosting the games of the X X I X Olympiad. Below is listed a potted history of the Olympic games from 1960 to date including a few interesting facts about each games.
Rome 1960
Rome had been chosen to stage the 1908 Games, but the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in southern Italy had intervened. It was some 52 years later that the Games finally arrived in the Italian capital. The Rome games were broadcast by television to all European countries and were watched by millions. However, the competitions themselves were overshadowed by the rivalry between the US and the USSR. In the final medal table the USSR finished ahead of the US by 43 to 34 gold medals.
Olympic Highlights
Running barefoot, Ethiopian athlete Abebe Bikila did not go unnoticed when he entered the marathon. He refused to be daunted by the condescending remarks and left all his opponents behind to cross the finishing line victorious, near Constantine’s triumphal arch.
Aged 20, Wilma Rudolph became the first American woman to win three gold athletics medals in one Olympiad: in the 100m, 200m and 4×100m relay. She achieved this extraordinary feat despite suffering from a string of childhood illnesses and recovering from a deformed leg caused by polio.
Cassius Marcellus Clay, later known as Muhammed Ali first came to international prominence by winning the light-heavyweight gold medal. He would later turn professional and embark on a phenomenal career.
Tokyo 1964
For the first time, the Olympic Games were hosted in Asia, Japan invested heavily in the most modern sports facilities as well as in improving the infrastructure of a city containing over 10 million people.
The extraordinary architectural design of the swimming stadium led to it being described as a “cathedral of sports”. Other outstanding new buildings included the judo hall, which was modelled on the architectural style of traditional Japanese temples.
The opening ceremony offered a glimpse into how record-breaking the competition would be, when teams from 93 nations (10 more than participated in Rome) paraded into the Meiji Stadium. However, the high standards set by athletes at the Tokyo Games led some critics to warn about exaggerated expectations for the future development of the Olympic disciplines.
Olympic Highlights
Australian swimmer Dawn Fraser won her third successive gold medal in the 100m freestyle. She was the first woman swimmer to win eight medals (four gold and four silver) – over three Olympics.
Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina added six more medals to her tally, becoming the first woman to win nine Olympic gold medals.
Deszo Gyarmati won gold with the Hungarian water polo team, thus achieving the (then) unique feat of winning medals at five successive Olympic Games
Mexico City 1968
Mexico City’s high altitude – almost 2,240m (7,350ft) above sea level dominated much of the pre-Games discussion: the consensus being that athletes from lowland countries would be at a disadvantage. However several weeks of high-altitude training enhanced the performances of many of these athletes.
There were violent riots in the run-up to the Games, following complaints about the exorbitant amounts of money being invested in Olympic facilities in contrast to Mexico’s own social problems.
Controversy also arose over South Africa’s participation at these Games and the IOC withdrew its invitation under pressure. Doping controls were introduced for the first time and a Swedish athlete was disqualified for having too much alcohol in his bloodstream.
Olympic Highlights
American Bob Beamon was the favourite in the long jump but he exceeded all expectations. His jump of 8.90m beat the world record by 0.55m.
Czech gymnast Vera Caslavska won four gold and two silver medals. These victories were given extra significance by beating the Soviet gymnasts shortly after Soviet tanks had invaded her homeland.
American Debbie Meyer became the first woman swimmer to win three individual gold medals at one Olympic Games.
Munich 1972
The 1972 Munich Games were the largest yet, setting records in all categories, with 195 events and 7,134 athletes from 121 nations. The Games were supposed to celebrate peace, and for the first 10 days all went well.
But in the early morning of 5 September, eight Palestinian terrorists broke into the Olympic village, killed two members of the Israeli team, and took nine more hostage. In the ensuing battle, all nine Israeli hostages were killed, along with five of the terrorists, and one policeman.
The Olympics were suspended and a memorial service was held in the main stadium. In defiance of the terrorists, the International Olympic Committee ordered the competitions to resume after a pause of 34 hours. All other details about the Munich Games paled in significance.
Olympic Highlights
Finnish distance runner Lasse Viren fell halfway through the 10,000m final, but still set a new world record to win the first of his four career gold medals.
The media star of the Munich Games was the petite Soviet gymnast Olga Korbut, whose three gold medals helped establish Soviet dominance in the female gymnastics events and captured the attention of fans worldwide.
Montreal 1976
The 1976 Montreal Games were marred by the boycott of 22 African nations protesting the fact that despite the New Zealand rugby team touring South Africa in defiance of international sporting sanctions, New Zealand was still allowed to compete. To compound the situation, the host nation suffered an unusually long winter, industrial disputes, and a lack of funds, which made it impossible to finish work on the Olympic facilities in time for the opening ceremony.
However, the performances of the athletes did not suffer from the political and national disputes. Despite the problems, the Games were well organized and, following the 1972 terrorist attack in Munich, security was tight.
Olympic Highlights
Nadia Comaneci was the star of the Games. She achieved her first perfect 10 on the uneven parallel bars, and the judges awarded her the maximum mark seven times.
With his victory in platform diving, Italian Klaus Dibiasi became the first Olympic diver to win three successive gold medals, and to win medals in four Olympic Games.
The US and East Germany dominated the swimming events. Only Great Britain’s David Wilkie and the Soviet Union’s Marina Koshevaya (both winning their 200m finals in record times) upset the monopoly.
Moscow 1980
As a result of the US-led boycott in protest at the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, only 80 countries were represented at the Moscow Games. : Notable absentees included Japan, West Germany, and the US.
Western countries have frequently referred to the Moscow Games as being of a low standard, and have raised doubts about the sporting value of the results and medals. Nonetheless, although not of the highest calibre, the Moscow Games were hardly sub-standard: 36 world records, 39 European records, and 73 Olympic records bore testimony to the high level of talent and competition on display.
Olympic Highlights
Soviet swimmer Vladimir Salnikov won three gold medals: in the 400m and 1,500m freestyle, and 4×200m relay. He was also the first to swim 1,500m in a time of less than 15 minutes.
British middle-distance runners Steve Ovett and Sebastian Coe faced each other in two memorable duels. In the 800m, Ovett won the gold medal just ahead of his compatriot. Six days later, a determined Coe redeemed himself in the 1,500m, taking gold while Ovett could only manage bronze.
By winning the decathlon, Great Britain’s Daley Thompson became “king of the athletes”, beating home crowd favourite Yuri Kutsenko into second place.
Los Angeles 1984
Although a revenge boycott led by the Soviet Union depleted the field in certain sports, a record 140 nations took part in the first privately funded tournament in Olympic history.
More than 30 sponsors together contributed more than $500 million, while other companies funded the building of new sports facilities, in a deal that allowed them to advertise on the admission tickets.
The ABC television network paid $225 million for the exclusive television rights, thereby ensuring that most events started in the evenings during prime television time in the US. With these vast amounts of money involved, many critics held the view that what had once been a festival of amateur sport was now a purely commercial spectacle.
Olympic Highlights
American diver Greg Louganis remained unbeaten from the 3m springboard as well as from the 10m platform.
Sebastian Coe became the first repeat winner of the men’s 1,500m.
In the women’s 400m hurdles, Nawal El Moutawakel led from start to finish, becoming the first Moroccan athlete to win a gold medal.
British decathlete gold medallist Daley Thompson finished just one point off the world record.
Mallorca Yachting Regattas 2008
Superb crystal blue waters, miles of open Mediterranean Sea and a year-round tropical climate are just a few reasons sailing is so popular in the Balearic Islands. Mallorca hosts several sailing competitions throughout the year.
Some of the most popular regattas in the world take place in the Mediterranean. The 49er European Championship Madrid 2016 is held each March in Palma de Mallorca at Club Nautic S’Arenal. The Bay of Palma is very large and can accommodate many of the sailors and their vessels. Mallorca offers mooring for up to 10,000 yachts. Palma de Mallorca, the 12th largest urban area of Spain, is also host to the King’s Cup and several other regattas.
The 25th Annual King’s Cup
Also known as Copa Del Rey, the King’s Cup is one of the most popular and prestigious yachting competitions. In August 2007, about 140 yachtsmen and women hit the waters for the event. The 2008 King’s Cup marks the 25th anniversary of the highly anticipated regatta. The competition showcases two races each day for seven days with prizes awarded in each event.
Traditionally, the King of Spain hosts the competition and awards prizes to the winners of each class. For the 2008 King’s Cup, King Juan Carlos of Spain and his son Prince Felipe will join the race together. The king and prince team will compete with the most renowned yachtsmen and women in the world for the 25th Annual King’s Cup.
4th World University Sailing Championship
Mallorca’s temperate climate allows for early and late-season sailing competitions. The 4th World University Sailing Championship will be held in Palma de Mallorca from September 22 through September 27, 2008. Contenders must meet minimum qualifications. Two events make up the race; Individual Championship and Team Racing Championship.
Trofeo SAR Princesa Sofia Regatta
Quite possibly the regatta with the highest competition level, the Trofeo Sar Princess Sofia takes place each year around Easter. More than a thousand sailboats and nearly two-thousand competitors take to the waters in the Bay of Palma. Sailing enthusiasts as well as Olympic hopefuls enjoy the scope of the competition. The 2008 competition allowed some countries to better select which team would represent them in the 2008 Olympics. The Olympic Sailing Competition will be held on August 21, 2008 in Qingdao, Beijing.
Attending a Sailing Competition
Each competition follows its own set of rules set by the club or organization presenting the competition. The sheer number of sailing competitions held throughout the year makes it relatively easy for tourists to witness at least one competition while enjoying their island holiday. Most competitions are followed by open celebrations by the winning parties. More information can be obtained from your travel agent at the same time as booking your cheap flight to Mallorca or any number of websites promoting sailing in Mallorca.
Sailing in Mallorca and the Mediterranean Sea
Sailing in the Mediterranean waters surrounding Mallorca isn’t restricted to competitions and races. The island is home to 41 marinas and 30 boating clubs. Yachts and sailboats can be chartered or rented at many of the island’s marinas. Pedal boats and other watercraft are also available for rent. At any given time during the year, the horizon is dotted with sailboats, yachts and other watercraft.
The position of the Bay of Palma and the popularity of the city help fuel the love of sailing. Tourists often enjoy the cultural events as well as watching the boaters from the pier or the beaches. Boat rides and tours are available at many locally owned business locations in the city. The Spanish Royal Family enjoys holidays each summer in Mallorca. This year, they’re adding the thrill of competition to their holiday time.
Which Spots In The City Best Represent Beijing Nightlife
Beijing nightlife is these days about as colorful as you could expect in any major metropolis, anywhere. And the best thing about it? Generally speaking, you will get a lot more bang for your buck in Beijing.
Beijing nightlife options range from eating kebabs and swilling cold beer at an evening food market, to getting hot and sweaty in a top-class club, dancing to the beats of a well-known Western DJ.
To get a real taste of the flavor of Beijing nightlife, start your evening off with a few bites at Wangfujing Night Market. There youll find all things expected and unexpected skewered and roasted to your liking, including silk worm cocoons, if you so fancy. Or, have some BBQ-flavored chicken wings at Hooters (yes, there is one of those in Communist Chinas capital), if you prefer.
Many foreign visitors and ex-pats then continue their Beijing nightlife adventure with a visit to Western-inclined pubs like the Den or the Rickshaw, or clubs like Babyface and China Doll. When they stagger out of those places, they can soak all the alcohol up with a greasy bite at Fish Nation.
Some aspects of Beijing nightlife are not for the weak of liver there are certain bars that stay open 24 hours a day, drawing in the hardcore crowds wholl sit there till the breakfasters come in, sipping their cocktails, playing pool and discussing (or continuing) the antics of the dance-floor.
To get the lowdown on Beijing nightlife, including full listings of pubs, bars and clubs, click here.
www.echinacities.com
Breezing Through at the Finn Gold Cup
The 2008 Finn Gold Cup Regatta in Melbourne has recently began. There was a total of 85 international and Australian sailors from approximately 33 countries who have engaged in the competition. There are many participants who have taking advantage of the beautiful past two months of Australian summer to fulfilled their practice and prepare for their coming campaigns which will begin at the Black Rock Yacht Club.
Besides being a very important competition due to its results affecting the berths for this year’s Olympic Games; the event gathers big names known worldwide…among some of them are: the Finn superstar four-time world champion and two-time Olympic Gold medallist – Ben Ainslie. Also, British compatriot Ed Wright who recently reached second place at the Asia Pacific Regatta and let’s not forget the 2007 defending champion the Spaniard Rafa Trujillo as well as Australian only hope Anthony Nossiter.
For the 32-year old Trujillo the road ahead is not easy “The level of competition every year is getting higher,” said Trujillo. He has informed to have dropped 4kg besides the 7kg he previously lost from his regular 105kg frame in order to compete in the light Beijing wind.
Despite the general good weather conditions during the days at Finn Cup race there are predictions of sudden changes as the wind often shifts creating big waves which could result in imminent bad races. “Not the weather I was expecting in Melbourne†declared Jonas Hoegh-Christensen (DEN), disappointed with a 15th place. Other competitors Emilios Papathanasiou (GRE) and Peter-Jan Postma lost several ranking positions due to sailing on the wrong side of the shift on the last beat. Papathanasiou is losing one place to 3rd overall.
And more recently the Briton Ainslie just won the latest race of the championship taking him to a second position overall behind New Zealander Dan Slater who is leading the scoreboard in front of Emilios Papathanasiou (GRE) and Giorgio Poggi (ITA). On the other hand, in the Junior division, Giles Scott (GBR), placed 11th overall is dominating his counter parts by a remarkable margin and he is expected to keep it up for the time being.
A look at Australias sports in 2008
Australia Sports is the basis for our great nation, Australia has come a long way since federtion began, whilst our most exciting error has just begun, our history of sport in Australia has no equilivant, the great Donald Bradman whom played cricket in the 1940 is probably our most famous of all sportsmen, Sir Donald as he is know had a astonoshing average of 99.9 as a batsman has just celebrated his 100 birthday sports in (2008).
Our Olympians competed at the Beijing Olympics bringing home 14 Gold medals, with a mixed bag of emotion the medal count was our third largest only defeated by Sydney in 2000 in which we had gold and Athens in 2004 in which we had 17, but if you consider we one our first track medal for more than 60 years and the perfomances of girls in pool, and including the diving it was a great Olympics if not the best.
We are one week away from our Football Grand Finale, its not soccer or even gridiron its Aussie Rules Football the greatest game in this land, once again the Geelong Football Club has been dominant all season whilst the mighty Hawthorn Football Club have produced for the the first time in a long time and will challenge for the Flag, it will be a close encounter and although I dont barrack for either of these sides it should be a fantastic game, shall the best team win on the day.
Adelaide Untied are showing of their soccer skills in the Asian Cup and are doing better than could be expected, whilst the socceroos are in qualifying for the world cup, rugby is also appoching its Grand Finale, whilst its the Warriors from New Zealand whom are showing the goods and I hope they can win the flag for the first time.
The spring carnival of Horse Racing is upon us also, watch out for Weekend Hussler and dont miss the Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate or the Melbourne Cup which is this richest staying race in the world with challenges from all over, horse racing in Australia is the ultimate and with so much investment the quality of thoroughbreds is unbelievable.
The cricket seaseon is now approaching and Australia is once again primed for a good season, and whilst the likes of warney have retrired, I am sure it will only even up the sides and make for great viewing. The years not over yet and for all those whom enjoy sport, just watch Australia as these athletes compete at their finest, giving everthing for team mates and the glory of victory.
Australias sport is only getting bigger and better and a special mention must go to Micheal Phelps of America, although he is not Australian his 8 gold medals in the pool where well deserved and in my opinion will never be beaten, whilst the feats of the Jamaicas Usain Bolt in the 100 and 200m sprints was just as awesome and should not be unrecognized, as a champion is a champion and it doesnt matter where he comes from.
How to enjoy a Merry Christmas tour in China.
As the yuletide season fast approaches, people start planning their vacation trips and holidays thinking of different ideas on where and how to spend Christmas. As usual Christmas around the world is almost the same but if you want to have an unforgettable December filled with some oriental feeling, forget about the worries of the past, pack your bags and come and experience a unique Christmas celebration touring China and its many beautiful cities.
Even though the Chinese people do not celebrate Christmas like the Christians do, a small amount of people however recognize the holiday and embrace the tradition. Christians in China celebrate the season by lighting their house with brightly colored trees of lights made out of paper chains, paper lanterns and paper flowers. The young children hang muslin stockings and await the arrival of a Chinese Santa Claus whom they call Dun Che Lao Ren (dwyn-chuh-lau-oh-run) which means “Christmas Old Man.” To give them gifts filled with candy bars.
With the number of tourists and expatriates in the country, many Chinese cities are now decorating the stores and streets with “trees of lights†to feel the spirit of Christmas. For a group of people or family who want to tour China in Christmas, there are quite a number of places of interest and tourist attractions to see and visit.
Starting off at Hong Kong, lots of gigantic snow men and Christmas decorations are seen in big malls and stores on the island, the famous Hong Kong Disneyland is jam packed with tourists and locals from around. Victoria Harbour, Victoria Peak and Ocean Park are also very good tourist spots to see in Hong Kong. The island is filled with happiness as people stay with their families and friends to enjoy the season.
Moving on to Mainland China, Shanghai is The New York of China. It is a place where tradition and modernity intertwine. From the old cities to the tall skyscrapers, spending Christmas on the Bund along the banks of the Huangpu River is breathtaking and fills you with admiration of Shanghai metropolis. A tour in Shanghai is not complete without shopping on Nanjing Road – the longest and busiest commercial center in China. After shopping, you may want to change directions and head north to Beijing, the country’s capital and the city known to be the most historical city in China.
Beijing is one of the major tourist destinations in China, therefore, spending Christmas in this beautiful city is a must. At the Avenue of Eternal Peace, buildings and stores are decorated with Christmas ornaments and people special food to eat and spend with their families. The Beijing Opera popularly known as Peking Opera which is the national opera of China depicts the real Chinese culture with its accompanying music and costumes which makes it very artistic and breathtaking. It is definitely one of the most entertaining musical opera to witness for a unique Xmas. The Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven are some architectural landmarks for tourists in Beijing.
If you decide to extend your stay, experiencing the Harbin Ice festival or its opening is another memorable occasion to experience during a Christmas tour in China. The opening event features the explosion of fireworks over large sculptures of ice blocks. The affair is very colorful and just puts one in the mood for festivities. This event usually starts from the 1st week of January, so the timing is perfect.
Planning your Christmas holiday at the end of the year into the beginning of another western new year in a country like China provides a wonderful Christmas experience of a lifetime.
For comments and inquiries about the article visit Passport to China Tours.
Sportsister Meets Kelly Holmes
Tell us about the mentoring camp you are running.
It’s a camp called On Camp with Kelly which I started over four years ago, and it’s an education and mentoring programme to help middle distance runners become well rounded athletes and learn about what it takes to become world class, which is more than just performing in a running club.
To be successful you need to have the knowledge of all the different influences that are going to affect you in your career. And I think even more so now with the younger generation that are trying to combine academic work with home life and sporting achievements.
I am on the fourth camp now, I have selected 15 girls for this and for the first time ever I have got 11 boys on board too to see how we can start working with the boys to raise their performances as they are currently really behind the girls in British athletics.
Are you still involved in the Girl’s Active campaign?
Yes, that campaign is aimed at teenage girls who drop out of sport, and 40% of girls do drop out of sport before the age of 18. I think that’s because of various reasons – body image, lack of self confidence, self consciousness, low self esteem, they don’t like the PE kit, don’t like the changing rooms….the list goes on. We are in the third year of promoting Girls Active now and this year we are going to be doing some conferences to raise the importance of getting more girls active in schools.
Your role as National School Sport Champion is government-backed. Do you think that the current government is doing enough when it comes to Physical Education?
I have been working with the government a little to try to improve sport in schools. Last year we announced £100 million to put into school sports, in a bid to increase PE from two hours a week to five hours a week.
But the real thing that we need to now focus on is sport for all, so instead of the traditional PE lesson they need to bring in other types of activities such as rock climbing, trampolining and martial arts. Then they have a variety of sports for everybody because not everyone likes the traditional team sports, or running and cross country, but most people do enjoy something.
Did you ever experience any negativity for being a female athlete?
No, not really. I think in the past when we’ve looked at women in sport the focus has been on unequal pay, like in tennis, and in athletics where women were getting less appearances, but I do think that is all changing now. I think it is much more equal and I think it is becoming more about women gaining confidence and not feeling that are not good at something because actually sport is about fun and it’s not always about performing.
What for you are the positive aspects of being involved in sport?
It is about confidence, and self esteem, learning new skills, making new friends and camaraderie. And that’s why I think sport is so important from a young age. And at an older age, again it is about helping you look good and feel good about yourself too. It gives you more energy, helps you feel more alert.
What do you love about athletics in particular?
There is a whole variety of disciplines and so there are not really any boundaries. It doesn’t matter what level of ability or disability, it doesn’t matter what age, height, weight or size you are, you can do it and that is what sport is about.
Athletics gives you such a varied type of events that you can choose one to suit you, and also easily shift from one discipline to another as running and jumping are the only core skills required. The only down side of athletics is that it is an individual sport.
Since you retired you have won a sack full of awards – 28 – we’ve counted! Which one of these has meant the most to you?
The BBC Sports Personality of The Year, because it is from the public so I was really honoured to win that. Also the Sportswomen Of The Year at the Laureus awards, because it was a very prestigious award, I mean being world sportswoman of the year – you can’t really get any higher up than that! I’ve been really honoured to receive all of the awards I have, because each one is special in its own way and special to the people who give you it. Even ones like the Golden TV moment of the year award, that was a really great one too.
If you could change anything in your career, what would it be and why?
I don’t think I would change anything now. Part of the reason why I do the On Camp With Kelly is because this is about teaching everybody how to go through their pathway and through their career the best way. Because my career was so littered with injuries and set backs I had to learn all these things along the way. And by doing that I wasn’t able to perform as well as I could have earlier on in my career.
But now because of that I have got so much to pass on to other people and even though it has been really hard and I have suffered some really big disappointments and emotional hurdles in terms of sport, I am glad that I went through that because I wouldn’t have the knowledge to do what I do now with my On Camp With Kelly.
Who are you looking forward to watching in Beijing this summer?
Tom Daley, the 13 year old diver. I met him at an interview last week and he was great. Also the cyclists are doing amazing at the moment, there is a girl called Shanaze Reade who is a BMXer but has just started doing track cycling, she’s only 19, and a very talented girl. And just generally watching the games because I am normally taking part so it will be really nice to just watch without the pressures of competing.
What effect do you think London hosting the Olympics in 2012 will have on our country’s athletes?
I think it is going to have a very positive affect by giving people direction. And I think it is going to really help get more financial funding into sport in this country which is needed.
I think also culturally, and in terms of benefits for the country such as the business that is being generated for small businesses and the area of east London being regenerated. It’s the biggest sporting event in the world and we are having it in our country, how good is that?
And finally, where do you keep your Olympic gold medals?
I keep them very safe! Sometimes they travel around with me when I am visiting schools but other than that they are kept in a very safe place!
Louise Hudson, Sportsister – www.sportsister.com
The Women’s Sports Magazine
