Now that the Soviet Union has dismantled, China is the second largest country in the world (Canada is first ). The country has twenty-one provinces, three municipalities ( Beijing, Shanghai and Tientsin ) and five autonomous regions. Vast expanses of China are still relatively new to tourism; however, the east coast is vigorously promoted. Several first class hotels offering first class service and plush amenities are operating, others are under construction.

The Chinese are an enduring and patient people. With more than 4000 years of recorded history, China is one of the few existing countries that flourished economically and culturally in the earliest stage of world civilization. This unbroken thread of existence is frayed with power struggles and upheavals and fallen or forgotten dynasties and kingdoms. At times, it seems, the struggle will never end. Yet somehow throughout their lives the Chinese people have maintained a strong believe in their own humanity.

Since the late seventies, China's self-imposed isolation has undergone enormous modifications. Except for the tragic interlude in 1989, this Asian nation is a compelling destination for those of us fascinated with foreign cultures and the past.