A trip to Taiwan

In 2006, tourists from the mainland may have the chance to travel in Taiwan. The issue is now under negotiation by the two parties across the Straits.

Mountains and soaring forests in pristine settings are part of Taiwan's primeval beauty.

Highlights

Alishan (Ali Mountain), one of Taiwan's most famous scenic spots, is formed by 18 large mountains in southern Taiwan connected by peaks, streams and ponds. The highest peak is 2,663 meters above sea level. The mountain attracts visitors for its Oriental cherry trees, a sea of clouds and sunrise, inspiring the saying: "Those who haven't been to Alishan cannot know the beauty of Taiwan."

Sun Moon Lake is the largest natural lake in Taiwan. Located at the Nantou Town in central Taiwan, the northeast section of the lake is as round as the sun, while the southwest looks like the moon.

The lake is encircled by mountains, with peaks rising one after another and range upon range of green and luxuriant hills. The lake's surface, with mirror-like calm azure water, is dotted with islets. The light from the water and shadow from the mists differs with the time of day and season of the year.

Among the natural scenery all around, temples and ancient pagodas are dotted here and there, adding more air of great antiquity and serenity. One of the most famous temples is the Hsuan Chuang Temple, in which the statue of the eminent monk Hsuan Chuang of the Tang Dynesty is enshrined. The temple, standing tall and imposing, brilliant and grand, is full of China's national characteristics.

Taipei is the center of tourism for northern Taiwan. Places of historic interest and scenic beauty include the Taipei City Gate, which was built in the late 19th century and has historical significance, the Longshan Temple, a famous temple in Taiwan built in 1740, and the Confucian Temple, a well-constructed temple honoring Confucius, one of the greatest philosophers and teachers of all time. Taipei Park is Taiwan's first and largest wood-fenced zoo.

Price: According to travel agency estimates, a seven-day trip to Taiwan will cost at least 8,000 yuan (US$1,000).

Tibet by train

After five years' construction, the railway between Beijing and Tibet will start service July 1.

Highlights:

Kekexili, in the northern border area between Tibet and Qinghai Province, is home to many rare species of animals including the Tibetan antelope, yak, wild donkey and other plateau animals. Kekexili covers 45,000 square kilometers at an average elevation of 4,600 meters.

Potala Palace: One of the world's most famous works of architecture, Potala Palace dates back to the seventh century. At the peak of the Putup Mountain, the complex's two palaces, the Red Palace and the White Palace, overlook all of Lhasa City. Inside are gold-leaved handwritten Buddhist scriptures from Chinese emperors and priceless antiques.

Mount Qomolangma is the highest mountain on earth, with an altitude of 8, 848.13 meters. Known to the Western world as Mt. Everest, Qomolangma stands in southern Tibet at the border of the central Himalayas, between China and Nepal. The mountain is capped with eternal snow, with its peak in silver radiance year. Its waist is hidden in the clouds. The optimum time to visit Qomolangma is from April to June, a golden period for mountaineers.

Price: A 10-day tour from Beijing to Tibet (by train) costs less than 4,000 yuan.

Discover Hong Kong

With new tourist attractions opening this year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched the 2006 Discover Hong Kong Year.

Events include the Hong Kong Shopping Festival in July and August, Best of the Best Culinary Awards and Hong Kong WinterFest in December. The HKTB has planned two major events, the ongoing Culture and Heritage Celebration, which lasts through February, and Mid-autumn Lantern Celebration during the traditional Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls on Oct. 6 this year.

New attractions:

The Hong Kong Flower Show 2006 will be held from March 3 to 12 at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay. Featuring dianthus as its theme flower and the theme "Enchanting Beauty," the event will showcase this exquisite plant and a rich profusion of potted plants. There will also be commercial stalls selling flowers and other horticultural products.

Ngong Ping 360: Opening in mid-2006, the Ngong Ping Skyrail will include a new cable car service from Tung Chung by the Hong Kong International Airport to Po Lin Monastery and the Giant Buddha, the world's tallest outdoor seated bronze Buddha statue. While improving transportation, the Ngong Ping Skyrail will offer visitors outstanding views of Langau Island.

Hong Kong Wetland Park: Situated between Mai Po Marshes Nature Reserve and Tin Shui Wai New Town, this new wetland park is ideal for bird watching and nature walks. The nature reserve is already one of Asia's premier wildlife spots as a vital resting and feeding ground for more than 300 species of birds, many endangered.

Editor: Wing