Background Information
Gate 1 Travel offers tours of China for those who love to explore and experience all that the country has to offer. Gate 1 tours include a variety of travel opportunities, arranged in conjunction with local tour providers, to give travelers an enriching and memorable experience. The company has been in operation since 1981, currently headquartered in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, and provides travel packages in scores of countries around the world. In China, they range from private luxury tours to popular theme-centric packages, such as Natural Wonders, Buddhist Monasteries, and Dream Service.
Relevant Data
China is the world’s most populous nation, with an estimated population of 1.41 billion people. Located on the east coast of Asia, the country covers approximately 9.6 million square kilometers. It is a land of immense beauty, with diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, as well as a major economic power. Its capital city, Beijing, is home to some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.
China is also a world leader in terms of the number of inbound travelers, with 74.61 million international visits in 2019. The yearly economic impact of international travelers to China is estimated to be around 305 billion US dollars.
Perspectives from Experts
According to Li Jinliang, a specialist in Chinese tourism, “China is an ideal destination for travelers who wish for an authentic, diverse and memorable experience. The country is a wealth of cultures, cuisines, and attractions, and our tourists love to explore the nooks and crannies of our cities. With Gate 1 Travel, visitors can expect leisurely, guided excursions that are comfortable and safe.”
Paul Kilsby, Director of Global Research for Euromonitor International, says, “Chinese citizens are increasingly taking international trips. In 2018, outbound Chinese travelers totaled 140 million and spend US$273 billion on international trips. Popular destinations include Japan, Korea, Thailand, Singapore and the United States.”
Own Insights and Analysis
For those considering a trip to China, Gate 1 Travel provides an excellent opportunity for a unique and immersive experience. In addition to the usual sightseeing, the company arranges visits to lesser-known attractions, where travelers can gain further insights into the local lifestyle and culture. The company also provides assistance with visa applications, flight bookings, local transport, and hotel arrangements, meaning that trips can be planned and implemented with minimal stress. Furthermore, their guided tours are led by experienced and knowledgeable locals, who ensure visitors get the most out of each destination.
Education and Engagement
When traveling in China, there are some important considerations to take into account. Being aware of certain customs and taboos is essential: Chinese people place tremendous respect and reverence on ancestors, death, and their beliefs on spirituality. Chinese people also prefer to be direct in their conversations, meaning that off the cuff comments can cause offense. Travelers should be extra mindful of their behaviors in public, as China is a largely conservative country, and be prepared to respect the dress codes of religious buildings and other areas.
Culture and Customs
China is an ancient country with a rich history and complex customs. Respect for elders is key, with difference between generations marked by specific greetings. Hospitality and politeness are greatly valued, especially the concept of ‘face’—an individual’s reputation and the respect they are shown by others. Wearing short sleeves or revealing clothing is generally discouraged, and pointing with the index finger is considered rude. Furthermore, gift giving is customary in certain situations, so it is important to be familiar with certain etiquette rules.
History and Tradition
China has a colorful history and diverse culture, from the ethnic Han to the 55 minority groups and dialects. Although the Communist Party of China is the ruling political system, many traditional Chinese beliefs remain. Religion still plays an important role in daily life, with Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism preserved and practiced widely. Chinese people keep strong links with their ancestral hometowns, often returning for festivals like the Spring Festival and Moon Festival. They also practice time-honored traditions such as ancestor worship, drinking tea, and calligraphy.
Cuisine and Food
Food is an important aspect of Chinese culture, with thousands of years of culinary tradition. Rice and wheat-based staples are the basis of Chinese dishes, complemented by meats and vegetables. Regional flavors are found in each province, ranging from spicy Sichuan food to the Cantonese dim sum. Popular dishes include Peking duck, Wonton noodles and green tea. Chinese table manners follow very specific rules: wait for the eldest person to start eating before anyone else, refrain from talking during meals, and requesting the last bite of a dish.
Photography and Travel Memories
China is a beautiful country with an abundance of photographic opportunities. Capturing the diverse culture, the stunning landscapes, and the bustling cities on a camera lens is a great way to remember the trip. Taking the right shot requires a bit of finesse—observing the locals and trying to capture them in a candid manner is a good approach. It’s also important to be respectful of locals, and not intrude on their personal space. When photographing landmarks and important sites, be aware that they may be a pilgrimage spot for some, while for others, it could be a somber experience.
