One of Beijing Hotels' Top Destinations: The Great Wall of China

By Efrenn Larson

The world's tourism industry is already gaining ground. Many individuals in different parts of the globe slowly realize that it is time to set foot and learn more things in foreign soil. This is the reason why the hotel industry is now creating giant leaps in many nations.

The facts and figures of the United Nations - World Tourism Organization in 2008 have shown that the People's Republic of China placed fourth as the country where tourists frequently visit. With an astounding 53 million tourist arrivals, one cannot help but be amazed, but there is in actuality little surprise to that, since the world has known that the country houses many natural and man-made wonders.

As China's capital, Beijing is one of the major gateways of the country. This translates to increased occupancy rates in Beijing hotels, more shoppers in malls and diners in fine restaurants, eventually leading to increased tourist receipts vital in pump-priming their economy.

One of the most notable of these Chinese landmarks is the Great Wall of China. Recently, it was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This structure is 8,851.8 kilometers long, stretching from the Northeastern shores of the seaside town of Shanhaiguan to the cold and mountainous Gansu Province in the Northwest.

The Great Wall is a chain of stone and earthen defenses which was constantly built, rebuilt and maintained between the 5th and 16th centuries to safeguard the country from invading Mongolians and other tribes. It also provided protection to the country's economic and cultural progress, watched over the Silk Route and secured the transmission of information and transportation. Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, facilitated the construction of the wall and the emperors of the Ming dynasty continued and brought the wall to its present state.

The Great Wall is not just a wall. Throughout its area, one could see defensive structures such as forts, passes and beacon towers which were once used to house soldiers, store grain and weapons and pass on military information.

Although the Great Wall lasts more than a lifetime and can be treasured throughout the year, the best time to have ones' vacation to the place is during spring and autumn, primarily to avoid multitudes of people. In spring, one could see the flowers abloom with pastel colors and the lush greenery, creating an atmosphere of freshness. In the winter, when it is glacial, the surrounding terrains and the wall itself are blanketed with snow, making it the perfect time for one to see the entirety of the wall. From Beijing, a 65-minute bus drive will get you to Badaling, which is the most accessible site. Other sites are Mutianyu and Jinshanling. The itineraries of Beijing hotels make it sure that the tourists will not find it difficult to travel to the place.

The Great Wall of China is one of mankind's best achievements. That is why for transients to completely enjoy their tours, they should dress suitably for the season, bring their versatile cameras, and of course, they must be open and friendly to co-travelers. Wherever they stay, be it in Beijing hotels or in any accommodations from other neighboring areas, one must take time to visit this wonder and who knows, maybe it is in here that he will find what he desires the most. - 30294

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