Quote (from the BBC 'news' website, 19th February 2023) : "Meanwhile, friends of the detainees [supposedly lockdown protesters], anxious and worried for their own personal safety, continue to keep tabs on the situation and share information. Many of them live overseas and did not attend the November protests ... [about saving lives with lockdowns]." The lockdowns might have been over the top, but doubtless saved many lives - so that is a matter of debate; and the 'protesters' might have had some good arguments [one might say], but the key thing here is whether in reality it was all a Western attempt at subverting China; and if one looks at other articles around the same time / leading up to these 'protests' [greatly exaggerated], that seems to indeed be the case. Again, in the BBC's own words : Many of them LIVE OVERSEAS. In the BBC's own words : Many of them LIVE OVERSEAS. LIVE OVERSEAS. This is a very important point to keep in mind : these people were not there, but somehow have something to say, and their 'not even there' tale is being pushed by MSM. It is the XinJiang / HK scam repeated over, and over, and over again. Who are these people and who do they work for ? [Well hidden of course] Not knowing these facts, why trust them ??? Enough of the BBC - they have no credibility; we are not going to do this every day [when see excrement, step over it, it is not worth analysing]; the lies are easy to spot, if you look. Open your eyes ... And always remember that propaganda is the first move in war - demonise your 'enemy' [everyone 'else']. While frustration can be understood, covert agendas [and foreign recruits?] are another thing. For sure, though, the 'daily hate' will continue; and shame on them. *** Once the venom is extracted, the disease is cured. *** Bonus film - the US spent millions of dollars shooting down $12 hobby balloons ...

With Men's Journal ... About the GongGa Trail Mount GongGa, also known as Minya Konka, is the highest peak in SiChuan province, China, standing at 7,556 meters (24,790 feet). The Gongga Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, featuring stunning landscapes, glaciers, and traditional Tibetan villages. It is a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the remote and pristine beauty of the region. Hiking Trails Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail The Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail is one of the most accessible routes on Mount Gongga. It features stunning views of glaciers, hot springs, and lush forests. This trail is suitable for trekkers of all levels and can be completed in 2-3 days. Yulongxi Trail The Yulongxi Trail offers a more challenging trek with breathtaking scenery, including high-altitude lakes, meadows, and snow-capped peaks. This trail takes about 4-5 days to complete and requires a good level of fitness. Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail This trail starts in Kangding and leads to the Gongga Monastery, providing trekkers with an opportunity to experience local Tibetan culture and stunning natural beauty. The trek takes approximately 5-6 days. Old Chengdu-Kangding Tea-Horse Road This historic trail follows the ancient trade route, offering a blend of cultural and natural attractions. Trekkers can enjoy scenic vistas, traditional villages, and historical sites along the way. The trek can take 7-10 days depending on the chosen route. Famous Guesthouses Hailuogou Grand Hotel Located at the entrance of Hailuogou Glacier Park, Hailuogou Grand Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to the glacier. It is a great base for starting the trek. Gongga Shan Hotel Situated in Kangding, Gongga Shan Hotel provides modern amenities and a convenient location for trekkers heading towards Mount Gongga. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Konka International Youth Hostel Located in the town of Luding, Konka International Youth Hostel is popular among backpackers and budget travelers. It offers basic accommodation and a friendly atmosphere. Minya Konka Guesthouse Near the Gongga Monastery, Minya Konka Guesthouse provides an authentic Tibetan experience with traditional architecture and hospitality. It is a perfect stop for trekkers on the Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail. Transport Mount Gongga and the Gongga Trail are accessible from major cities in Sichuan province. Here are some ways to get there: From Chengdu: Buses and private transfers are available from Chengdu to Kangding, taking approximately 6-7 hours. From Kangding, you can hire a local guide or take a bus to the trailhead. From Kangding: Local buses and taxis can take you to various trailheads, including Hailuogou Glacier Park and Yulongxi. The journey time varies depending on the destination. By Car: Renting a car is a flexible option for those who prefer driving. The roads to Kangding and surrounding areas are well-maintained, offering scenic views along the way.

A talk by Martin Jacques; October 2020.

Directed by, co-written by, and starring Jay Chou. With Gwei Lun-Mei, Anthony Wong and Alice Tzeng. Filmed in Taiwan; released 2007. We cannot tell what happens. But don't miss it ... As in life. Better late than never. The secret is right there, if one has open eyes, and an open heart.

SuZhou, an exquisite water town, lies on the banks of the YangTse river and next to TaiHu lake. SuZhou is 45 minutes from Shanghai by train. This film includes the classical gardens and the SuZhou Art Museum.

China's ancient capital - a 3,600 year-old yet modern city in HeNan province. With Walk East ...

With Little Journey ... Bonus film - the Expo Culture Park ... New World City, located to the west of Nanjing Road pedestrian street. The New World area in Shanghai is a vibrant and bustling commercial and entertainment district located in the Huangpu District, one of the city's most central and historic areas. Here are some key highlights and features of the New World area: ### 1. **Shopping and Retail** - **New World City Mall**: This is one of the prominent shopping malls in the area, offering a wide variety of local and international brands. It has multiple floors with fashion, electronics, and lifestyle stores, catering to diverse shopping needs. - **Nanjing Road**: Adjacent to the New World area, Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, lined with large department stores, specialty shops, and boutiques. ### 2. **Dining and Entertainment** - **Restaurants and Cafes**: The area is home to numerous dining options ranging from upscale restaurants to casual cafes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines including traditional Chinese, Asian fusion, and Western dishes. - **Entertainment Venues**: The New World area features various entertainment options such as cinemas, karaoke bars, and live performance venues. The Shanghai Grand Theatre and the Lyceum Theatre are notable nearby cultural spots offering a range of performances including plays, musicals, and concerts. ### 3. **Tourist Attractions** - **People's Square**: Located close to the New World area, People's Square is a major public square and a central hub for cultural and social activities. It houses the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, and the People's Park. - **Madame Tussauds Shanghai**: This famous wax museum is a popular attraction where visitors can see lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and cultural icons. ### 4. **Transportation** - **Metro Access**: The New World area is well-connected by Shanghai's extensive metro system. People's Square Station, which is one of the busiest interchange stations, serves lines 1, 2, and 8, providing easy access to other parts of the city. - **Road Networks**: The area is also accessible by various bus routes and taxis, making it convenient for both locals and tourists to reach. ### 5. **Cultural and Historic Significance** - **Historic Architecture**: The area around New World features a mix of modern and historic architecture, reflecting Shanghai's rich cultural heritage and rapid modernization. - **Local Culture**: Visitors can experience the local culture through street performances, traditional markets, and seasonal festivals that often take place in and around the New World area. Overall, the New World area in Shanghai is a dynamic and multifaceted district that offers a blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. Expo Culture Park, also known as Shanghai Expo Culture Park, is a significant green space and cultural area located in the Pudong District of Shanghai. Developed on the former site of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, the park is designed to be a major urban green space and cultural landmark. Here are some key features and highlights of Expo Culture Park: ### 1. **Green Spaces and Natural Scenery** - **Large Green Areas**: The park features extensive green spaces, including lawns, gardens, and tree-lined paths. It's designed to provide a natural retreat within the urban environment. - **Floral Displays**: Various sections of the park are dedicated to flower gardens and seasonal floral displays, offering vibrant colors and scents throughout the year. ### 2. **Cultural and Artistic Installations** - **Public Art**: The park is home to numerous public art installations and sculptures, contributing to its cultural atmosphere. These works often reflect themes related to nature, urban life, and the legacy of the Expo. - **Exhibition Halls**: There are exhibition spaces within the park where cultural events, art exhibitions, and community activities are regularly held. ### 3. **Recreational Facilities** - **Walking and Cycling Paths**: The park has well-maintained paths for walking, jogging, and cycling, making it a popular spot for outdoor exercise. - **Children's Play Areas**: Designated areas with playgrounds and interactive installations cater to families with children, offering safe and engaging environments for play. ### 4. **Water Features** - **Lakes and Waterways**: The park includes several artificial lakes and waterways, adding to the scenic beauty and providing habitats for local wildlife. - **Boating**: Visitors can often rent boats to explore the lakes, enjoying a peaceful activity amidst the urban setting. ### 5. **Theater and Performance Venues** - **Open-Air Theaters**: The park includes open-air theaters and performance spaces where concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural festivals are held. - **Music and Dance Performances**: Regularly scheduled performances and events showcase both traditional and contemporary music and dance, drawing both locals and tourists. ### 6. **Environmental Sustainability** - **Eco-Friendly Design**: The park is designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating green building practices, renewable energy sources, and water conservation measures. - **Biodiversity Conservation**: Efforts are made to preserve and enhance local biodiversity, with native plant species and habitats integrated into the park's design. ### 7. **Historical Significance** - **Legacy of the Expo**: As the site of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, the park retains elements that commemorate the event, including some of the original pavilions and structures that have been repurposed for cultural and recreational use. ### 8. **Accessibility** - **Transportation**: The park is easily accessible via public transportation, including metro lines and buses. It’s located in a well-connected area of Pudong, making it convenient for visitors from across the city. - **Visitor Facilities**: The park is equipped with visitor centers, restrooms, and dining options, ensuring a comfortable experience for guests. Expo Culture Park serves as a significant cultural and recreational hub in Shanghai, providing a blend of natural beauty, cultural enrichment, and historical significance. It’s a prime example of urban renewal, transforming the legacy of the Expo into a lasting public asset for the city.

The hike to Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay). A beautiful place on the east coast of the Sai Kung Peninsula; a large bay with white sand beaches and seas of tropical blue or turquoise, flanked by rugged headlands and backed by green fields beyond which rise some impressive hills. The main route follows a stretch of Maclehose Trail, up and over the ridge from Chek Keng - which you can walk to from a bus stop at Pak Tam Au. Scenes from the video : This area is within the New Territories (often abbreviated as N.T.), one of the three main regions of Hong Kong, alongside Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon peninsula; it comprises over 85% of Hong Kong's land area (nearly 1,000 square kilometers). Guided walks in Hong Kong : http://www.walkhongkong.com See also: http://www.hkoutdoors.com/new-territories/tai-long-wan-sai-kung.html