Dim sum – typical Cantonese regional cuisine 1. Diversity: There are 8, some argue 9, distinct regional cuisines in China. These have been grouped into 4 schools of cooking, each with very distinct flavors, use of ingredients and style of cooking. They can be categorized in the following way: North – this is the cuisine of Beijing, Inner Mongolia and imperial Shandong which features heavy use of leeks and onions and includes stewing and roasting techniques (think Peking roast duck).   » Read more »

(Above photo: Ganden Monastery near Lhasa)   Summer is fast disappearing and it’s time to think ahead and make your travel plans to see you through the winter. A more unusual winter vacation to tell your friends and family about back home is a trip to Lhasa to experience the Tibetan Lunar New Year celebrations, known in Tibetan as Losar (lo means ‘year’ and sar means ‘new’).  » Read more »

When Rubin moved to China, in 1994, he was surprised to find a dearth of resources for discerning travelers in a country so rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. He and his wife and partner, Nancy Kim, set out to change that, and they now lead China’s most sophisticated luxury tour operator. To keep up with the country’s rapid transformation, Rubin is constantly inspecting new hotels—Chengdu has recently seen the arrival of the Ritz-Carlton,  » Read more »

The importance of Chinese art stretches far back into ancient times, and continues to this day. This upcoming year, the art world at large has taken note of its continued importance and a number of exhibitions around the world are featuring solely Chinese art. These range from showcasing ancient Chinese ceramics to classical ink scrolls and paintings to modern day sculptures of the contemporary art world. Here we have compiled a brief roundup of global Chinese art exhibits that you won’t want to miss!  » Read more »

View over Beijing's fabulous Forbidden City Ever dreamed of standing on the Great Wall of China? Seeing the wondrous Terracotta Warriors with your own eyes? Gazing up at the brilliant neon skyline of Shanghai? At least once a year Imperial Tours runs The Majestic Tour, a luxury small group tour – maximum of 14 people – which intimately allows you to experience all the things you dreamed of and more.  » Read more »