If you believe the media, there is never a good time to travel to China. We hear repeatedly about China's lack of political freedom but rarely about China lifting 680 million people out of poverty over the last 30 years. What about the very real economic liberty that brings? Every spring, we hear about various flu's from China killing a small number of people. This is often spun by the local WHO office and the media as a major risk to the world's health,  » Read more »

Stone door houses, or shikumen, line long and narrow alleyways as if trying to contain some secret. Locals hang their laundry out of windows above the various cafes, art studios, and craft stores held inside the shikumen, as mesmerized shoppers shuffle between shops. The aromas of Indian food, Moroccan food, and Chinese food all fuse with the bohemian atmosphere that permeates this little slice of city life. This place is Taikang Lu. Originally providing inexpensive space for art galleries and media companies,  » Read more »

In recent years, tennis has emerged as one of the most prolific sports in China, on both a professional and amateur level.  This can be credited to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the relatively new emergence of high ranked players throughout Asia, and China's investments in the grassroots of tennis. Only within the past 10 years have Chinese tennis players rose to prominence. The success of tennis stars like now-retired Li Na,  » Read more »

Earplugs may be needed during China's Formula One World Championship races held this year at the $250 million Shanghai International Circuit from April 10 to April 12. This unique track features world class viewing areas and grandstands all around the course, getting spectators closer to the long straights, sweeping curves and tight and technical turns that characterize this circuit. Before the current track, China's Grand Prix was held in a paddy field and viewing was minimal.  » Read more »

China has an extensive and snaking history with golf where the sport is not only considered luxury, but also taboo.  Recorded as early as 1000AD, Chuiwan was an ancient Chinese game reminiscent of modern golf. Played with clubs, balls, and strict etiquette, the objective was to drive the balls into various hand-dug pits. Although there is no concise origin of golf, many believe this game traveled along the silk road with much influence.  » Read more »