Learning Chinese - Hollywood's hottest stars poll

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Hollywood's hottest stars poll

(ANI)
Updated: 2007-06-07 17:27



Washington - The most sought after pair of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt
in the cinema industry has topped the list of 100 Hollywood celebrities
compiled by the website popsugar.com.

The list was prepared based on three months of voting by the website's
readers.



Brad Pitt

While Pitt clinched the first position, his ladylove Jolie came at the
second place. The actor's ex-wife Jennifer Aniston has also made to the
list.

Talk show host Oprah Winfrey was at third place, while "queen of pop
music" Madonna came in fourth.

Rounding out the top five was actor Tom Cruise.

Readers were asked to rate 300 celebrities in five different
categories-likeability, talent, style, class and looks.

More than four million people cast their votes, based on which the list
was compiled.

Top 10 PopSugar Hollywood Celebrities are:

1. Brad Pitt

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10







Related Stories



� Hollywood's hottest accessory: The big coffe cup
===========================================================================
� Top 10 hottest Hollywood couples
===========================================================================
� The hottest summer swimwear
===========================================================================
� Taylor Hicks ranked People'se "hottest bachelor"
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Morrison to play Princess Diana in Lifetime drama

� Spike Lee eyes film on U.S. black soldiers in WW2

� Richie frets about maybe going to jail

� Tom Sizemore handcuffed at LA court

� Jolie: `We have family sleep on Sundays'





Today's Top News




� China, Costa Rica set up diplomatic ties

� President in Germany for G8 meet

� Gaokao pioneers: Don't make a fuss

� Bush says Russia won't attack Europe

� HK Basic Law 'guarantees democracy'





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - China and Japan will drive hotel investment

/ Page 15








China and Japan will drive hotel investment
By Ding Qingfen
Updated: 2007-06-05 07:03




Hotel investments will rise in Asia this year and China will be the
driving force along with Japan, says Scott Hetherington, managing
director of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

According to the latest report of the hotel investment services firm, the
global hotel transaction volume reached a historical peak in 2006,
surpassing $72 billion, since 2002, when the global market began to
recover from its lowest point.

Although America and Europe are the two major regions where the
transactions have been and will continue to be the highest, "Asia-Pacific
would enjoy the highest growth by volume of transactions this year," said
Arthur de Haast, global CEO of Jones Lang.

"This year, the global volume will slightly fall to less than $70
billion. America would be flat, Europe, decrease, and Asia, accelerate,"
he predicted.

China is already seeing a lot of action on the hotel investment front,
said Hetherington.

And the coming Olympics is acting as the catalyst. Ever since Beijing was
chosen as the next Olympics venue, hotel investments have picked up
rapidly in China.

Despite the restrictions introduced in mid-2006 by the government on
acquisition and funding of real estate investments by foreign entities on
the mainland, investors look anything but discouraged.

The number of deals in 2006 crossed 16 and the hotel transaction volume
exceeded $1 billion, which is over one-sixth of the total volume in the
whole of Asia.

Under the new policies, foreign investors are required to have at least
50 percent of the total investment in registered capital, up from the
previous 33.3 percent, for investments over $30 million.

In line with previous years, sellers were private individuals,
State-owned enterprises as well as Japanese and Singaporean owners.
Buyers were a mix of private equities, owner-operators, venture funds and
real estate investment trusts, the majority of which are based in the
Asia-Pacific region.

There will be strong investor demand across the mid- and upper-scale
hotels in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai and strategic secondary
locations, said Andreas Flaig, executive vice-president Jones Lang and
head of its China business .

China's continuous economic rise and the growing tourism market spell
exciting news for investors. In 2006, the mainland received 125 million
inbound tourists and remained the fourth-largest inbound travel
destination worldwide.

A recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council and the
International Monetary Fund said China's travel and tourism industry is
poised to become the world's second-largest by contribution to GDP after
the US by 2015, with a projected annual growth rate of 8.7 percent
between 2007 and 2016.

Beijing and Shanghai, the two major tourist destinations, will see an
increase in RevPAR (revenues per available room) at more than 10 percent
in the upper-tier hotel market, says Jones Lang.

The key gateway cities will see demand growth beyond the 2008 Olympics
also, underpinned by the growing MICE (meeting, incentives, conventions
and exhibitions) sector and acceleration of infrastructure enhancement in
the long term.

The more prominent secondary cities will be highly sought after although
Beijing and Shanghai remain the preferred investment locations.

"The hotel stock (in Beijing and Shanghai) is tightly held and owners
appear hesitant to trade unless there is a perceived premium on offer.
But opportunities (in secondary cities) are more available and potential
gains are considered attractive," said Flaig.

The trend was already evident in 2006. Among the 16 transactions last
year, nine were in Beijing and Shanghai, the rest being in Tianjin,
Guangzhou, Kunming and Wuxi.

"There'll be more foreign investors outside Asia joining in the China
market," said Flaig.


(China Daily 06/05/2007 page15)
















China Daily PDF Edition











Learn Chinese, Learn mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Chinese Mandarin - Harry Potter' film to open 2 days early

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Harry Potter' film to open 2 days early

(AP)
Updated: 2007-06-01 08:41





In this artist rendering provided by Universal Orlando 'The Wizarding
World of Harry Potter' at Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park is
shown. [AP]

LOS ANGELES - Good news for Harry Potter fans marking off the days before
the release of the boy wizard's next movie.

"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," the fifth movie based on the
best-selling books, will open in U.S. theaters July 11, two days earlier
than previously scheduled.


Warner Bros., which is distributing the film, gave no explanation for the
change.

The world premiere of the movie, directed by David Yates, will be held
June 28 in Tokyo, followed by a London premiere July 3.

The film franchise is based on the best-selling novels by J.K. Rowling.

The seventh and final book in the series, "Harry Potter and the Deathly
Hallows," is still scheduled for release July 21.









Related Stories



� "Harry Potter" film to premiere in Tokyo
===========================================================================
� JK Rowling urges people not to ruin Potter's ending
===========================================================================
� New Harry Potter movie trailer released
===========================================================================
� 'Harry Potter' movie shortened to avoid 'Grindhouse' failure
===========================================================================
� Daniel Radcliffe conjures up a 10 million pound personal fortune
===========================================================================
� New Harry Potter book cover revealed
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Harry Potter' film to open 2 days early

� Paris Hilton's jail time countdown is on

� Kate, Leonardo and Sam makes three

� MTV's "Unplugged" reborn with Police, Bon Jovi

� Film producers seek to accommodate Lohan's rehab





Today's Top News




� China: Panama importer 'to blame for deaths'

� Forex reserve to have more Euros

� Putin: US imperialism causes arms race

� Japan puts relations at risk - FM

� Smoking deaths to double without action - WHO





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Chinese School, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Learning Mandarin - Mischa Barton hospitalised in LA

ENTERTAINMENT / Gossip






Mischa Barton hospitalised in LA

(Reuters)
Updated: 2007-05-29 16:36



LOS ANGELES: Actress Mischa Barton, former star of the hit television
series The OC, was taken to a Los Angeles hospital after suffering a
reaction to medication, celebrity news website TMZ.com has reported.





Barton had been taking antibiotics for bronchitis she contracted during
travels to Cannes, London and Paris in recent weeks and suffered the
adverse reaction after drinking alcohol at a party over the weekend, the
Web site said.

The 21-year-old Barton, who was born in London and grew up in New York,
was "resting comfortably" with family, it said.

Representatives for the actress could not immediately be reached for
comment.









Related Stories



� Mischa Barton black-and-white photos
===========================================================================
� Mischa Barton rushed to hospital
===========================================================================
� Mischa Barton arrives for the 60th Cannes Film Festival
===========================================================================
� Mischa Barton has a boob slip
===========================================================================
� Mischa Barton fronting superdrug's skin awareness
===========================================================================














Top Entertaiment News




� Miss Universe to crown world beauty

� Chan's "Phoenix" arises in Hollywood

� Jolie set for cameo in 'Confessions of an Action Star'

� Lohan loses vodka sponsors for 21st birthday

� Gritty Romanian film wins Palme d'Or in Cannes





Today's Top News




� China's former drug head sentenced to death

� Wen: Give 'left-behind' kids more love

� China targets campus porn sites

� US, Iran end 27-year diplomatic freeze

� War against porn websites successful





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learning Chinese, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Chinese School - Lindsay Lohan booked on suspicion of DUI

ENTERTAINMENT / Gossip






Lindsay Lohan booked on suspicion of DUI

(AP)
Updated: 2007-05-28 08:41





Lindsay Lohan was arrested and cited for driving under the influence in
Los Angeles in the early hours of Saturday morning.[Daily Mail]


BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. - Lindsay Lohan was arrested on suspicion of
driving under the influence Saturday after her convertible struck a curb,
and investigators found what they believe is cocaine at the scene, police
said.

Lohan, 20, and two other people were in her 2005 Mercedes SL-65 when it
crashed on Sunset Boulevard around 5:30 a.m., Sgt. Mike Foxen said. It
appeared the actress was speeding, Lt. Mitch McCann said at an afternoon
news conference.

Officers at the scene found a "usable amount" of a drug tentatively
identified as cocaine, McCann said. He declined to say where the drug was
found other than to say Lohan was not carrying it.

Lohan, who spent time at a rehabilitation center earlier this year, was
driven in another car to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries,
McCann said. The two other people in her car were not hurt.

Officers received a 911 call about the accident and arrested Lohan at the
hospital for investigation of misdemeanor driving under the influence of
alcohol or drugs, McCann said.

She was released from custody because she was admitted to the hospital,
police said.

McCann declined to comment on Lohan's blood-alcohol level. He said the
case will be presented to the District Attorney's Office where the
actress could face more charges, including felonies. Her tentative
arraignment date is Aug. 24.

The crash was Lohan's third accident in about two years. In October 2005,
Lohan and a passenger received minor injuries when her convertible hit a
van in West Hollywood. Authorities said the van driver, who also received
minor injuries, was at fault.

Months earlier, Lohan collided with a minivan when she made a U-turn as
the van, carrying paparazzi, followed her from a Los Angeles restaurant.
A photographer was arrested for investigation of assault with a deadly
weapon but prosecutors declined to charge him.

That crash was credited with prompting Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to sign
a law that set steep financial penalties for paparazzi who commit
assaults while trying to obtain celebrity photos.

Lohan publicist Leslie Sloane Zelnik did not immediately return an e-mail
requesting comment.

Lohan said in January that she had checked into a rehabilitation center
for substance abuse treatment. Her publicist confirmed in December that
the actress was attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Lohan told Allure magazine during an interview for its May issue that she
decided to enter the secluded Wonderland Center at the suggestion of her
therapist.

"It's so weird that I went to rehab. I always said I would die before I
went to rehab," Lohan told the publication.

Lohan's latest movie, "Georgia Rule," is in theaters now. The actress'
other screen credits include "Mean Girls," "Bobby," "A Prairie Home
Companion" and "Freaky Friday."









Related Stories



� Lohan lines up vodka sponsorship for 21st birthday
===========================================================================
� Lindsay Lohan a presenter at MTV Movie Awards
===========================================================================
� Lindsay Lohan attends the Maxim Hot 100 Party
===========================================================================
� LA DA: Lohan won't be charged with theft
===========================================================================
� LA DA: Lohan won't be charged with theft
===========================================================================
� NYC photographer sues Lohan and her mom
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Gritty Romanian film wins Palme d'Or in Cannes

� Russia's Konstantin Lavronenko wins Cannes best actor

� South Korea's Jeon wins Cannes best actress prize

� Lindsay Lohan booked on suspicion of DUI

� Sparks, Lewis look to post-'Idol' life





Today's Top News




� Pentagon report clouds facts, says analyst

� Wen pledges to stablize pork prices

� Beijing calls for extradition treaties

� Troop cut expected after Iraq report

� China discovers 3.8 tln cubic meters gas reserves





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learning Chinese, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Learning Mandarin - Zhang Ziyi to play supporting role in "Mei Lanfang" film

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Zhang Ziyi to play supporting role in "Mei Lanfang" film

(CRIENGLISH.com)
Updated: 2007-05-24 14:00





Chinese actor Zhang Ziyi

World famous Chinese actor Zhang Ziyi is expected to play a supporting
role in a film about Peking Opera legend Mei Lanfang.

Zhang Ziyi will play the role of Meng Xiaodong, a female friend and
rumoured lover of Mei Lanfang.

Whilst the films director Chen Kaige has met with the actress during the
Cannes Film Festival in France. He said it would "take some time" before
a final agreement is reached.

Another Chinese actor, Chen Hong, also the wife of the director, will
play the heroine, or wife of the renowned artist.

Three actors of different ages, including Hong Kong star Leon Lai, will
portray the life story of Mei Lanfang.

All the cast members will undergo training in performing Peking Opera
before the film starts shooting in the second half of the year.











Related Stories



� Of hits and misses: Zhang Ziyi's latest flame
===========================================================================
� Zhang Ziyi polishes her English skills in New York
===========================================================================
� Zhang Ziyi spotted with her boyfriend
===========================================================================
� Once in a Kung Fu Dream
===========================================================================
� Zhang Ziyi attends Chinese Art Exhibition in London
===========================================================================
� Eye of the tiger
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Cannes world cinema puts spotlight on India, Lebanon .. and more

� Chow Yun-Fat wants to take the lead in U.S. films

� Jolie says kids keep her grounded

� Jordin Sparks crowned as 'American Idol'

� China's Zhang Yimou to chair Venice film fest jury





Today's Top News




� Wu Yi: Strategic talks are a complete success

� Gov't probes 'tainted toothpaste' case

� China's special envoy visits Darfur

� Lightning kills 7 kids in Chongqing

� 9 US warships enter Gulf for training





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Learning Mandarin - Keith Urban talks about Nicole Kidman

ENTERTAINMENT / Photo






Keith Urban talks about Nicole Kidman

(The Bosh)
Updated: 2007-05-22 15:42





Keith Urban & Nicole Kidman

Keith Urban recently gave a revealing interview to Britain's Sunday
Times. The normally private singer spoke out about his relationship with
wife Nicole Kidman and their plans to add to their family.


Urban says that when he met Nicole in January of 2005 "there was
something, a good connection. Something indefinable. There was a
familiarity to her, of course, but it had nothing to do with who she is
professionally��You know, it was a different kind of familiarity, a
mystic familiarity."

Keith, who entered rehab only four months after marrying Nicole, said of
his marriage's effect on him, "I am more selfless and I am learning so
much about myself from loving her. I am more comfortable with who I am
because at the core I'm happy. It's a beautiful journey."

Finally, Urban answered the Times'query of whether he was looking forward
to becoming a father. He said, "I am. Next year actually would be lovely."












Top Entertaiment News




� 'Heroes' first season ends with boom

� Amy Winehouse marries in U.S.

� Julia Roberts to star in drama about murdered conservationist

� Angelina Jolie plays slain reporter's wife

� Sly fined for importing restricted drugs





Today's Top News




� Optimism high at second trade talks

� Audit body vows closer scrutiny

� Hang Seng, DBS win local status

� Iraq makes plans for quick US pullout

� Iraq makes plans for quick US pullout





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learn Mandarin online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Chinese Class - In the Cannes marketplace, gore sells

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






In the Cannes marketplace, gore sells

(AP)
Updated: 2007-05-19 14:25





Charity Glick of Brain Damage films sits in her company's booth at the
60th International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Friday,
May 18, 2007.

CANNES, France - Cannes is not all glitz and glamour. For many film
buyers and sellers, the guts of the festival is �� blood and guts.

In Cannes' frenetic film market, industry players wheel and deal over
movies with titles like "Motor Home Massacre" and "Cadaverella," feeding
an insatiable global appetite for shock and schlock.

It's not just the niche distributors �� almost everyone seems to have a
horror movie or two to offer, with titles ranging from "Loch Ness Terror"
("She's Back ... and She's Hungry") to "Poultrygeist: Night of the
Chicken Dead."

"There's been a revolution in horror," Richard Walker of Los
Angeles-based horror and sci-fi producer Night Light Films said Friday.

This once-disreputable genre has gone mainstream, even highbrow. Quentin
Tarantino's stalker-on-wheels saga "Death Proof" �� an homage to 1970s
B-movie kitsch �� is in the running for Cannes' top prize, the Palme
d'Or, competing against arthouse films and socially conscious dramas.

Independent studio Lionsgate Films has had huge box-office success in the
past few years with low-budget horror films such as "Saw" �� which
spawned two sequels �� and "Hostel." Lionsgate's Cannes catalog continues
the trend with titles including "Midnight Meat Train," "The Burrowers"
and the inevitable "Saw IV."

Other studios have followed suit �� hardly surprising given the potential
rewards. The relentlessly graphic "Hostel" cost less than $5 million to
make but took in more than $80 million at the global box office.

"Years ago, you couldn't sell horror movies. Nobody was interested," said
Scott J. Jones, president of Los Angeles-based sales agent Artist View
Entertainment. "Now it's a very strong genre."

Horror's new popularity is no surprise to Darrin Ramage, president of
producer-distributor Brain Damage Films. His Cannes market stall is
festooned with posters for "Swamp Zombies," "Death Factory" and other
blood-drenched features.

"All genres are cyclical," Ramage said. "Four years ago, action was huge.
You'd walk through the aisles of the (festival palace) and all you saw
was posters for action movies. I've been in the business so long I've
seen the up and down of horror three times."

There are questions about whether tragic real-life events might lessen
the public's appetite for gore. Debate about the effects of violent
movies was reopened by pictures of student gunman Seung-Hui Cho, who
killed 33 people, including himself, at Virginia Tech university last
month, adopting poses reminiscent of the violent �� and Cannes
prize-winning �� South Korean film "Oldboy."

Lionsgate attracted some criticism with a series of graphic ads for
"Hostel: Part II," whose plot metes out gruesome fates to college
students, but still plans to release the film next month.

There are signs, however, that the horror market may be saturated. Some
distributors say they are finding it hard going at Cannes this year.

A digital era that has transformed the way people view entertainment ��
increasingly, and often illegally, over the Internet �� and a glut of
content mean buyers are becoming choosier.

Horror die-hards like Ramage are confident that whatever the whims of the
market, the genre will endure.

Horror fans, he said, are looking for two things: "B and B: blood and
boobs."

"To fill the appetite of the horror fan, you need a whole lot more than
what Hollywood can deliver."












Top Entertaiment News




� Jessica Simpson says she's 'Very Happy' post-split

� Paris Not "Too Distraught" to Party?

� Paparazzi boo Pamela Anderson at Cannes

� Anna Nicole Smith in posthumous role at Cannes

� Madonna releases new song for charity





Today's Top News




� Central bank raises interest rates, bank reserve ratio

� China widens yuan trading band

� Sinopec establishing oil reserve firm

� Olympics pressure campaigns 'will fail'

� Central bank: Interest rate hike possible





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Chinese Online Class, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - At A Chinese Business Banquet

NI HAO from China






E-ZINE / Hot Topics






At A Chinese Business Banquet


Updated: 2007-05-17 09:15



Ever thought about building or expanding business in China? If so,
Chinese banquet etiquettes are things that cannot be missed, as lots of
business deals are clinched at the banquet table in China.





Readers' comments:

johnners: Many times I have set at a dinner table in China and sat
expectantly as one
mouth-watering dish after another is placed before me. The succulent fresh
vegetables and other leng pan look particurly appetising. However, what
should be a perfect start to a sumptuous meal is spoilt by the insistence
of the host that we overwhelm our palates with numerous toasts with
moutai or fizzy beer.

lovable: As about the table drinking thing, I think you have every right
to say that baijiu is not a good match of any of the succulent dishes on
the table.But pls don't forget also that it is not supposed to be one
either. It is like a present, from a very warm-hearted hostess who is too
shy to hug you or say she likes you, AND you don't even have to like it.

Have your say at Forum

Where to sit?

As a guest, you may be asked to sit prominently at the table in the
so-called honor seat. Usually, this seat is facing the door of the dining
room and it's likely to be at the right side of the host seat, a sign of
courtesy and respect.

How to fill the glass?

When your drinking companion's glasses are empty, it is polite to fill
their glasses, starting with elders and superior persons and always
pouring for yourself at last. When someone else pours for you, hold your
glass up with two hands, one at the bottom of the glass.

When to receive a toast?

The drinking officially begins after the host offers a short toast to the
group after his welcome speech. All the diners should stand up with cup
in hand, and say 'ganbei' which means "bottoms up."

Read more about drinking table guides at

1 2










Where to Enjoy




� First Modern Drama Museum Inaugurated

� S. Korean Art Exhibition Opens

� Drama:I Heart Beijing

� Drama:The Life Comments of Two Dogs

� Shanghai Film Festival-- A Hot-Ticket Item





Editor's Picks




� Is the Internet killing culture?

� The World of Antoni Gaudi

� Subtropical Paradise: the Dai Villages

� First Modern Drama Museum Inaugurated in Beijing

� S. Korean Art Exhibition Opens





Hot Topics




� Is the Internet killing culture?

� The Great Wall in "New 7 Wonders of the World" Election

� Two Chinese sites listed on world's 100 most endangered

� Cast for "Dream of the Red Chamber" Remake Announced

� New version Kunqu Opera aiming at youth





Previous Issues




� Chinese Drinking Table Guide

� Qin Mausoleum and Terracotta Warriors

� A Chinese Carnival in Spring

� The Secret to Chinese Cooking

� Elegant Collision between East and West





An American in China






� Matt Doran : A Rugged Great Wall Trip




� Orr Shtuhl :A Patch of Heaven







Learn Chinese, Chinese Online Class, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - Naomi Watts eyeing role in "Half Blood Prince"?

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Naomi Watts eyeing role in "Half Blood Prince"?

(Aceshowbiz)
Updated: 2007-05-09 10:13





Naomi Watts

As core members of the original cast namely Daniel Radcliffe, Emma
Watson, and Rupert Grint recently confirmed their return for "Harry
Potter and the Half Blood Prince", what remain to be questions are surely
the new names for the lineup.

Bringing an early speculation to this matter, LaineyGossip has come up
with a tidbit saying that Naomi Watts may up for the role of Narcissa
Malfoy nee Black, the wife of Lucius Malfoy and mother of Draco Malfoy,
in the sixth installment of the mega-hit series. Also the sister of
Bellatrix Lestrange and cousin of Sirius Black, the character is said to
have a key scene at the beginning of "Prince."

The site further mused that Watts' recent claim of feeling more British
than Australian is presumably intended to warm J.K. Rowling up to
consider her for the part as the author has been known to prefer having
British actors in the cast of the film adaptations of her "Potter" books.
Since no official announcement made, please stay tuned for more info and
updates about this subject.








Related Stories



� Naomi Watts: I still consider myself British
===========================================================================
� Naomi talks pregnancy
===========================================================================
� Naomi talks pregnancy
===========================================================================
� Naomi Watts Aussie wedding tip
===========================================================================
� Naomi Watts pregnancy confirmed
===========================================================================
� Naomi Watts
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Tom Sizemore arrested in drug case

� Paris Hilton rehires fired publicist

� 'Wall Street' sequel to set Gordon Gekko in hedge fund era

� Studio signs for three more 'Spider-Man' movies

� Prosecutors want Paris Hilton in jail





Today's Top News




� Japan 'should respect' neighbors' sentiments

� Team to join UN forces in Darfur

� Maglev extension given 'green light'

� Iran compromises on nuclear talks

� China stocks at new high, yuan breaks key barrier





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Chinese Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese School - The Invisible

ENTERTAINMENT / New Releases






The Invisible


Updated: 2007-04-30 10:25





Nick, is a high school senior with a bright future until, in a tragic
case of mistaken identity, he is brutally attacked by a troubled girl,
Annie, and his body is left for dead. Now in limbo, not quite dead but
invisible to the living, his spirit can only watch as his mother and the
police search frantically for him, unaware that he is only hours away
from truly perishing.

Genres: Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller and Remake

Running Time: 97 min.

Release Date: April 27th, 2007 (wide)

MPAA Rating: PG-13 for violence, criminality, sensuality and language -
all involving teens.

Distributors: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution












Top Entertaiment News




� Portman endorses microloans for women

� "Survivor" guru Burnett marries actress

� British, US stars call for action over Darfur

� Michael Douglas wants to kill Catherine Zeta-Jones in a film

� Bjork wows at Coachella music festival





Today's Top News




� Rebels 'release' Chinese hostages in Ethiopia

� China raises bank reserve ratio to 11%

� New policies to boost cross-Straits ties

� Fire from crash melts Calif. freeway

� Hu, Lien stress cross-Straits peace





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learn Mandarin online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Speak Chinese - Fast entry pledged at city border

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Fast entry pledged at city border

(Shanghai Daily)
Updated: 2007-04-25 10:55


International travelers should be spending less time waiting in line for
Shanghai immigration checks, according to a pledge made by local frontier
authorities.

Border police have promised to increase their working efficiency in
landing and boarding checks at local airports, seaports and rail services
serving countries and regions outside the mainland.

Ninety-five percent of international travelers leaving or arriving in the
city will stand in line for no more than 25 minutes to complete
immigration procedures, the Shanghai Entry-Exit Frontier Inspection
General Station promised in a news release yesterday.

Frontier authorities also pledged that travelers from Hong Kong and Macau
will spend less than 15 seconds to get their documents stamped once
they've reached the entry-exit window. The process will be completed in
no more than 45 seconds for all other travelers.

"These limits have long been our goals, but we are now making bigger
efforts to upgrade our working efficiency and have announced them to the
public to show our determination for improvement," Zhou Xiaodong, an
office with the frontier station, said yesterday.

Other new commitments were also announced.

When the number of travelers waiting for a luggage or immigration check
grows to more than 15 persons, a new passage will be opened immediately.

And officers are required to be prepared for duty 30 minutes before the
arrival of each flight, ship and cross-border train, under the new rules.












Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� Top ten backpackers' favorite hotels in China

� Play hide and seek with summer sunshine

� 36 hours in Shanghai

� Solo travel, why not?

� Make yourself an "S" plan!





Beijing Guide




Eating out: Save shroom for soup
Bars&Cafes: Hip and cute to boot
Weekend&Holiday: Best-kept holiday secrets
Shopping: Discounts & bargains
What's on: Double take







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: Culinary chameleon
Bars&Cafes: Rock and renovated
Weekend&Holiday: Have a chef at your home
Shopping: Always France
What's on: Portraits reflect real life





Learn Chinese, Chinese Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Learn Chinese - Halle Berry's hot pictures

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies/TV






Halle Berry's hot pictures


Updated: 2007-04-13 16:37








1 2 3 4 5 6







Related Stories



� Bruce Willis and Halle Berry attend premiere of "Perfect Stranger" in NY
===========================================================================
� Halle Berry does EVE
===========================================================================
� Poll shows Halle remains sexy at 40
===========================================================================
� Halle Berry is set to go bald for new movie
===========================================================================
� Berry laughs off music career
===========================================================================
� Halle Berry honored with Hollywood 'Walk of Fame' star
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Brando documentary examines the actor's actor

� Beyonce's special edition hits copyright snag

� Hugh Grant wins libel case

� Britney set for 'semi-secret' comeback gig

� 'X-Men' spin-offs 'Magneto' and 'Wolverine' planned





Today's Top News




� China to act on pollution, warming gases

� Yang a popular choice as FM

� Hu, Lien stress cross-Straits peace

� US captures senior Al-Qaida operative

� Yang Jiechi named new FM, replacing Li Zhaoxing





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learning Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - Spy Bound

ENTERTAINMENT / Photo Gallery






Spy Bound


Updated: 2007-04-02 14:07





Director:Fr��d��ric Schoendoerffer

Cast:Vincent Cassel, Monica Bellucci

Genre:Action

Synopsis:

France's intelligence services send a group of four secret agents -
Captain Georges Brisseau, teammate Lisa and their colleagues Raymond and
Lo?c - to carry out a sabotage mission in Morocco.

The supposed aim of the mission: to blow up the ship of the Russian
businessman Igor Lipovsky, thereby intimidating him and halting arms
deliveries to the Angolan rebels.
Tony, "guardian angel," will supply diving outfits and materials, along
with the explosives that Lo?c and Raymond will attach to the hull of the
"Anita Hans". Brisseau and Lisa will oversee operations from a hotel in
Casablanca. All goes well��













Top Entertaiment News




� Brando documentary examines the actor's actor

� Beyonce's special edition hits copyright snag

� Hugh Grant wins libel case

� Britney set for 'semi-secret' comeback gig

� 'X-Men' spin-offs 'Magneto' and 'Wolverine' planned





Today's Top News




� China to act on pollution, warming gases

� Yang a popular choice as FM

� Hu, Lien stress cross-Straits peace

� US captures senior Al-Qaida operative

� Yang Jiechi named new FM, replacing Li Zhaoxing





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learning Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - Naomi done talking trash

ENTERTAINMENT






Naomi done talking trash

(E!Online)
Updated: 2007-03-24 17:25





Naomi Campbell [Reuters]

Naomi Campbell sure knows how to make an exit.

The mellowed-out supermodel completed the fifth and final day of her
court-ordered community service Friday, strutting away from New York's
Department of Sanitation garage in a sparkly Dolce & Gabbana gown and
silver stilettos.

But the celebratory gown wasn't just a feel-good move, although Campbell
was saying goodbye to garbage and hello to a silver Rolls Royce. (Yes,
quite the upgrade from the chauffeured Cadillac Escalade that had ferried
Campbell to and from the NYC facility all week.)

Campbell's rep said that the professional poser was on her way to Elton
John's 60th birthday party, hence the designer duds.

The British beauty sauntered out of sanitation duty, surrounded by
paparazzi, at about 4 p.m. ET after a week of sweeping and mopping
floors, scrubbing toilets and other tasks the Manhattan agency deemed fit
for her.

"From what I understand, she was pleasant the entire time," sanitation
department Deputy Chief Albert Durrell told the Associated Press.

A state of mind that will hopefully be the start of a trend for the often
catty Campbell.

She was sentenced to five days of community service and anger management
counseling after pleading guilty in January to throwing a
crystal-encrusted cell phone at her former maid, Ana Scolavino, who
needed four stitches after being on the receiving end of Campbell's
outburst. The 36-year-old cover girl was also ordered to pay $363.32 to
her ex-employee.

But Campbell can't afford blinged-out cell phones just because she looks
good in pictures��she's also a savvy businesswoman.

And one who knows how to make the most of any situation, according to the
New York Daily News, which reported that fashion photographer Steven
Klein joined Campbell as she arrived for her first day of service on
Monday so that he could snap her for an upcoming spread in W.

A studio shoot for the magazine is rumored to have featured her clad in
glamorous slinky outfits while scrubbing a bathroom and engaging in other
tasks inspired by her stint with the Sanitation Department.

"Our policy is not to comment on upcoming editorial content," a W
spokeswoman told the Daily News, while Campbell said in a posting on her
Website, "I don't want to give too much away about the shoot and will
leave it as a surprise."

Similarly, in 2005 Campbell helped market a line of Chip & Pepper
T-shirts tagged with the phrase "Naomi Hit Me," donning one for eager
celebrity shutterbugs.












Top Entertaiment News




� Jolie,Pitt donate $100,000 for African grassroots project

� Watson, Grint sign for final "Harry Potter" movies

� "Titanic" stars DiCaprio, Winslet reuniting

� Miss Tennessee crowned new Miss USA

� "Ocean's 13" to bow at Cannes Film Festival





Today's Top News




� Chief judge pledges to fight judicial corruption

� Defiant couple stave off wrecking ball

� Iran seizes 15 British sailors

� US general plays down China threat

� Funds transfer still a sticking point





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Learning Chinese, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Learn Chinese online - Wines appeal to Beijingers

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Wines appeal to Beijingers

(chinanews.cn)
Updated: 2007-03-13 10:18


An increasing number of young people in Beijing are now fond of
wines,office workers working for international corporations in
particular. Wines are given much more priority in business activities
than before and drinking wines has become a new fashion among office
workers in Beijing.

"Talking business over cups of good French red wines in a banquet is very
popular among business circles in Beijing," said Miss Liu Xin, an
employee in a financial company.

Many senior managers in Beijing are now interested in how to build one's
private cellar. Wines are thought to be related to one's social position
and personal taste in Beijing. "Those who live in the same building as me
are all well educated people. They send wines as gifts to others in the
hope of raising their own position and that of the gift-recipients," said
Liu.

As more and more young people become members of the middle class of the
city, their pursuit for fashion has a great influence on the luxury
market. Beijing is now a big wine-consumption city. Statistics show that
the amount of imported wines last year was 50% more than that of the
previous year.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� Health care in Spring

� Delicacies from minorities

� Experience Beijing's Siheyuan hotels

� Get your discount before dinner

� Traditional Lantern Festival celebrations





Beijing Guide




Eating out: Next generation dining
Bars&Cafes: The king for cocktails
Weekend&Holiday: Kiss, but where?
Shopping: Enjoyable footwear
What's on: Punchy performance







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: New chef upholds fine tradition
Bars&Cafes: Windows Jingan revamped
Weekend&Holiday: Stone-Gate art
Shopping: Find luxury in Shanghai
What's on: Fresh sounds





Learn Chinese, Learn Mandarin online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Chinese Studies - Angelina Jolie plans to adopt Vietnamese child, officials confirm

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Angelina Jolie plans to adopt Vietnamese child, officials confirm

(AP)
Updated: 2007-03-02 17:17




Hollywood actress and United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR)
Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie smiles after her meeting with India's
Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma in New Delhi November
5, 2006.[Reuters/file]

HANOI, Vietnam : Angelina Jolie has filed papers to adopt a Vietnamese
child, the country's top adoption official said Friday.

A U.S. adoption agency representing Jolie filed the papers at Vietnam's
International Adoption Agency, said Vu Duc Long, the agency's director.

"She just filed the papers this week," Long said.

Jolie and her superstar partner, Brad Pitt, have three children:
5-year-old Maddox, adopted from Cambodia; 2-year-old Zahara, adopted from
Ethiopia; and another daughter, Shiloh, who was born to the couple in May.

Long would not name the U.S. adoption agency working with Jolie, who
applied to adopt as a single parent.

Jolie and Pitt made a surprise visit to Vietnam at Thanksgiving, when
they visited the Tam Binh orphanage, on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City.

Their pictures were splashed across the front page of Vietnamese
newspapers, showing the couple cruising around Ho Chi Minh City on a
motorbike.

Nguyen Van Trung, the director of the Tam Binh orphanage, declined to
comment. He said he was awaiting the papers from the International
Adoption Agency.










Related Stories



� Jolie visits refugee camp in Chad
===========================================================================
� Pitt and Jolie skip Oscars ceremony
===========================================================================
� Angelina Jolie voted sexiest star ever
===========================================================================
� Jolie wants to play Hawach
===========================================================================
� Angelina Jolie wants more children
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Angelina Jolie plans to adopt Vietnamese child, officials confirm

� Latest "Idol" sex scandal may be short-lived

� Even ignoring Paris Hilton makes news

� Oscar winner "Lives of Others" set for remake

� Jolie wants to play Hawach





Today's Top News




� Paulson: US trade barriers 'a worrisome trend'

� North Korea vows to stop nuke program

� Dissatisfaction plagues many marriages

� Tornadoes kills 18 in Alabama

� Tornadoes kill 13 in Alabama; Mo. girl





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Chinese Online Class, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Class - Rent a lover

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Rent a lover

By Liu Wei (China Daily)
Updated: 2007-02-16 11:02


"Wanted: A girlfriend during Spring Festival 1,000 yuan ($128) for 10
days."

Xiao Zhu, a physics student at Peking University, posted this
advertisement on campus last month. About 20 girls responded within two
days.

The reason for the advertisement, according to Zhu, is quite simple.

"My aged parents sent me an 'ultimatum' last Spring Festival find a
girlfriend this year," he said.

Zhu said he spends much of his time studying and is therefore too busy to
find a girlfriend. However, as he did not wish to disappoint his parents,
he decided to get himself a temporary girlfriend.

Zhu is not the only one caught in this dilemma.

In January last year, a teacher at the Shanghai-based East China Normal
University posted a notice on another university's BBS, looking for a man
who would pretend to be her boyfriend during her Spring Festival holiday
at home.

Most people who want to rent a partner are university students and young
white-collar workers.

According to Chinese tradition, no matter where you are or how busy,
Spring Festival is a time to return home for family reunions. For many
young people working or studying away from home, the festival affords a
chance of getting together with their families.

It is also an opportunity for them to show their families they have been
cultivating close friendship with the opposite sex.

Those who advertise for partners make it clear they do not have to live
together or be intimate.

According to media reports, those who respond to such advertisements are
normally looking for fun, money, or just a free trip.

Wang Zhenyu, a marriage expert with the Chinese Academy of Social
Sciences, said young people should be more honest with their parents,
instead of deceiving them with rented partners.

And trusting a person solely on the basis of an advertisement could also
be dangerous.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� DIY dumplings

� Horoscopes help you find the special gifts

� Romantic Valentine's Day dinner

� Jazz up your life

� Sports' dress codes





Beijing Guide




Eating out: Swinging at the place
Bars&Cafes: One night in Beijing
Weekend&Holiday: Blooming marvelous
Shopping: Transient discount
What's on: Ode to a Russian master







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: A Soupcon of luxury China
Bars&Cafes: Electro and grunge
Weekend&Holiday: Family plays 'Butterfly Lovers'
Shopping: Top 5 underground malls
What's on: Paper-cut in Vogue





Learn Chinese, Chinese language, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Learn Mandarin online - Office workers try to keep healthy

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Office workers try to keep healthy

(www.chinanews.cn)
Updated: 2007-02-06 10:20


Faced with a busy work schedule, office workers don��t have much time to
do exercise. In order to keep themselves healthy, some office workers now
go to office on foot, climb stairs in offices instead of taking a lift,
and go to gyms to take exercises in off hours, Market News reported.

For a long time, many office workers have overworked and spend little
time taking rest or doing exercise. Some recent surveys show that the
health conditions of many white collar employees and office workers are
rather critical. Death cases among white collar employees and office
workers are increasing year by year and these cases are generally
believed to have been caused by overwork.

If their offices are within the distance of half an hour��s walk, some
office workers now choose to go to work on foot. Ms. Deng, who works in a
foreign enterprise in Beijing, has been walking to her office for more
than six months now.

��I usually have a tight work schedule and can��t find time to do
exercise. So I choose to walk to work.��

As she said, if the office is not far from home, most women would like to
go to work on foot. Walking is good for their health and can help them to
keep good figures as well.

Apart from walking to office, one can also find time to do exercise when
one is at work. The simplest way is to abandon the lift. Mr. Wei, who
works in the Passenger Service Department at Shenzhen Airlines, is one of
such men who frequently climb stairs to his office.

��I only use the lift whenever I��m with my colleagues or my boss.
Otherwise, I would climb stairs instead of taking the lift.��

In addition, some office workers try to find time to go to a gym at the
end of a day. Ms. Sang works in a law firm in Shenzhen. She goes to the
gym several times a week when she has the time.

��I go to the gym every weekend. During the weekdays, I will also go
there whenever I have the time. ��

Ms. Sang and her husband both have a gym membership card for a whole
year. The cards cost them 3,000 yuan. However, they think it��s worth it.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� Horoscopes help you find the special gifts

� Romantic Valentine's Day dinner

� Jazz up your life

� Sports' dress codes

� The high price of love





Beijing Guide




Eating out: The Revolution lives on!
Bars&Cafes: VJ meets DJ at Centro
Weekend&Holiday: Summer Palace to hold "Royal carnival"
Shopping: Gift ideas for Valentine's Day
What's on: Love dance







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: Reignite the spark
Bars&Cafes: Cave-like club
Weekend&Holiday: Forefront of celebration
Shopping: The way to a girl's heart
What's on: Lovers of 'Era'





Learn Chinese, Free Chinese Lesson, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Studies - Weird but effective

CITYLIFE / Odds & Ends






Weird but effective

(liftstyle.con)
Updated: 2007-01-25 14:44



In terms of body building, some people like to go with the flow. From the
popular Yoga to Pilates, these people take interest in every prevalent
exercise. But there is also a crowd that prefers to go against the flow.
They behave distinctively and go in for some uncommon exercises, creating
an endless array of new exercises.


Exercises such as the crawl, handstands, and walking backwards are called
'Abnormal Body-building Practices'. Though it may sound strange, these
exercises are actually a great way to tone your body!

But are these the exercises for you? Try them��if you can!

Crawl

Scientists have found that when crawling, the toxins in a person's head
and heart decrease, which improves blood circulation and aids the
respiratory system. Crawling also strengthens the muscles in your back
and helps with back and waist problems.

Tips:

1) Before crawling, warm up by stretching your arms and legs.
2) Don't put too much weight on your knees and try to keep your balance.
3) Crawl for at least 30 minutes to get the ultimate benefits.

Walking backwards

Walking backwards has many benefits for office workers as this kind of
exercise can give you energy and reduce your chances of'misshapen spine.
Walking backward every day increases balance, motor skills, and reaction
time. Walking backward also exercises your waist muscles, and boosts your
metabolism.

Tips:

1) For maximum benefits, walk at least 200 steps backwards.
2) This exercise is especially suited to those who don't exercise
regularly. It also boosts your energy levels.

Running in the water

Water provides four times the resistance of air, and running in water is
a great way to build up your muscles.

Tips:

1) Make sure you warm up before this exercise.
2) When you begin this exercise, gradually speed up your movements from
walking to jogging and then running.
3) The depth of the water should be appropriate; usually the surface of
the water should be just across your chest.

Handstand

In ancient times, handstands were a good way for monks to build up their
bodies and stay strong and healthy. Now people know there are even more
benefits to the handstand, it decreases stress, keeps the mind clear and
increases blood circulation.

Tips:

1) Try to keep your legs straight in the air when doing handstands.
2) This exercise is not suitable for those who with high blood pressure
or heart disease.

Edited by KK Zhao











Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� A free meal isn't far away

� The magic of strawberries

� Slow down and enjoy three meals a day

� Beat the heat at the beach

� More foods, more smiles





Beijing Guide




Eating out: Being a veggie in Beijing
Bars&Cafes: Free-standing bar
Weekend&Holiday: Enter the dragon
Shopping: The rules of engagement
What's on: Every dog has its say







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: Pick up something Chinese
Bars&Cafes: A diet date with ice cream
Weekend&Holiday: Art exhibition for 80s generation starts
Shopping: Music pavilion
What's on: Cirque du Soleil debuts





Learn Chinese, Learn Mandarin online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Learn Chinese online - 'Friends' has Shanghai version

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






'Friends' has Shanghai version

(CRI)
Updated: 2007-01-23 09:45





NBC'S hit comedy TV series "Friends" inspired a group of Shanghai office
workers to shoot their own stories and screen them on a Website, Shanghai
Evening Post reported on Monday.

The idea first occurred to a female employee, nicknamed Xun Xiang, when
she took notice of how many jokes and fun times she and her coworkers
shared during lunch break.

"My colleagues and I are all fond of 'Friends,' so I think if I record
funny scenes like in our daily life, it will amuse many people," Xun said.

Xun then looked to cooperate with Mofile.com, a video sharing site, to
upload their works, and picked up six out of 1,000 sign-ups for the show
after she published an advertisement on the Website.

According to the advertisement, all the cast members must devote their
weekends to the show and keep composed when telling jokes.

"They need to showcase their personalities in front of the camera," said
Zheng Kai, the director of the show, translated as "Soul Partner."

Zheng is working in a local computer game company, and it's his first
time shooting a comedy by digital video.

A developer offered them a four-bedroom apartment in Songjiang District,
and in exchange, the group must put the property management's
advertisements in the show.

"We have screened two episodes on the Website, and will adjust the
scripts according to audience responses," Xun said.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� Horoscopes help you find the special gifts

� Romantic Valentine's Day dinner

� Jazz up your life

� Sports' dress codes

� The high price of love





Beijing Guide




Eating out: The Revolution lives on!
Bars&Cafes: VJ meets DJ at Centro
Weekend&Holiday: Summer Palace to hold "Royal carnival"
Shopping: Gift ideas for Valentine's Day
What's on: Love dance







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: Reignite the spark
Bars&Cafes: Cave-like club
Weekend&Holiday: Forefront of celebration
Shopping: The way to a girl's heart
What's on: Lovers of 'Era'





Learn Chinese, Learning Chinese, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing,

Study Chinese - Hundreds try out to be Beyonce dancers

ENTERTAINMENT / Music






Hundreds try out to be Beyonce dancers

(AP)
Updated: 2007-01-08 08:48




Beyonce Knowles poses backstage during MTV's 'Total Request Live' at the
MTV Times Square Studios Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2006 in New York. (AP
Photo/Jason DeCrow)

HOUSTON - A nationwide talent search for dancers fleet-footed enough to
back up Beyonce Knowles came to the pop diva's hometown as hundreds
turned out to audition for 40 open slots.

The would-be performers took turns Saturday moving through choreographed
routines to such Beyonce hits as "Deja Vu," while cameras recorded their
footwork and choreographer Frank Gaston studied their style.

Houston was the third location in the cross-country search, following
auditions in Atlanta and Los Angeles. After two more stops, in New York
and Chicago, Gaston and Beyonce will review the tapes.

There will be 30 finalists from each city. The finalists get a trip to
either New York or Los Angeles, where the numbers will be pared to the
final 40.

The selected dancers will earn $1,500 to $3,000 a week and get extensive
exposure at Beyonce's performances, said Gaston, who choreographs
Beyonce's videos and has worked with En Vogue and Toni Braxton.









Related Stories



� Beyonce set to reissue album with Spanish tracks
===========================================================================
� Beyonce ready to put weight on
===========================================================================
� Beyonce's charitable Christmas
===========================================================================
� Beyonce in leopard print knee skirt
===========================================================================
� Beyonce 'eating for America' over Christmas
===========================================================================
� Beyonce wants wedding, babies
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Pitt's 'Babel' honored in Palm Springs

� Hundreds try out to be Beyonce dancers

� Man tried to blackmail Oprah, FBI says

� Oscar watchers narrow list of top film nominees

� DiCaprio, Mirren nominated by actors in Oscars indicator





Today's Top News




� Prospects brighten for hostage release in Nigeria

� Government to increase imports

� Review 'not a signal of lenience'

� Bias is a 'way of life in jobs'

� Chinese rescue group arrives in Nigeria





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Free Chinese Lesson, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Mandarin - Shanghai,the most fashionable city in China

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Shanghai,the most fashionable city in China

(Chinanews.cn)
Updated: 2006-12-27 14:32



Horizon Research conducted a survey on fashion recently, finding Shanghai
to be the most fashionable city in China.



With unique economic and cultural background as an international
metropolis, Shanghai deserves to be called the most fashionable city in
China.

In the survey, some 50.75% of the responders from Shanghai appreciate
single life as the most fashionable life, and 26.12% are willing to be
��weekend couples��. The love affiairs of senior citizens are also well
respected, for 32.09% of the responders say they fully understand it.
However, only 41.04% of Shanghainese accept DINK, while the national
figure is 41.63%.

The most fashionable job in Shanghainese's mind is model, which reflects
that Shanghainese appreciate individuality and personal charms, very
similar to New Yorkers.

What is the symbol of fashion? Some 32.84% of the responders tick cars
(lower than the national figure of 46.07%), and another 27.61% tick
jewels (higher than the national figure of 17.98), which might stand for
the consumption of women in Shanghai.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� Something other than Curse of Golden Flowers, please!

� Season of sales

� All I want for Christmas...

� Chill out in comfort this winter

� Keep the bitter weather at bay with a humidifier





Beijing Guide




Eating out: Festive afternoon tea
Bars&Cafes: Cheap and cheerful
Weekend&Holiday: Barrier-free facilities to be installed
Shopping: Christmas gift ideas
What's on: Henri Oguike Dance Company comes







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: Get yourself one satisfying meal
Bars&Cafes: Soothe your spirit
Weekend&Holiday: Yoga theme releases power within
Shopping: Men's skin care in focus
What's on: Replicas of work by Rodin





Learn Chinese, Chinese Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Study Chinese - Daniel Craig voted the world's sexiest man

ENTERTAINMENT / Movies






Daniel Craig voted the world's sexiest man

(Bang Showbiz!)
Updated: 2006-12-13 09:26




Daniel Craig has been voted the world's sexiest man.

The British actor topped the poll, conducted by condom maker Durex, after
showing off his toned muscles in his first outing as James Bond in hit
007 adventure Casino Royale.

The combination of Daniel's piercing blue eyes and rippling physique as
he emerges from the sea in tiny blue swimming trunks in the movie proved
to be a major vote winner.

He beat off stiff competition from a host of Hollywood heartthrobs,
including George Clooney and Johnny Depp, to win the coveted title.

A Durex spokesman said: "Daniel Craig is an obvious choice. He has all
the attributes that make a real icon."

The survey - which polled 4,000 women - saw British men outnumbering US
stars eight-to-two in the top ten. Sin City actor Clive Owen finished as
runner-up, while The Holiday star Jude Law came third.

George and Johnny flew the flag for America in fifth and sixth place.

AdvertisementAdvertisementFormer James Bond Pierce Brosnan rounded off
the top ten, just below Pirates of the Caribbean actor Orlando Bloom,
singer Robbie Williams and soccer star David Beckham.

Others to make it into the top 100 included screen icon Robert Redford
and music mogul Simon Cowell.

World's Sexiest Man top ten:
1. Daniel Craig
2. Clive Owen
3. Jude Law
4. Steve Jones
5. George Clooney
6. Johnny Depp
7. David Beckham
8. Robbie Williams
9. Orlando Bloom
10. Pierce Brosnan









Related Stories



� Daniel Craig tops poll of men women fantasise about while having sex
===========================================================================
� The Top 10 most searched for celebs on the internet
===========================================================================
� Bond vs. penguins in box-office battle of tuxedos
===========================================================================
� Bond reviews hail Craig as best 007 ever
===========================================================================
� China welcomes first 007 film in January
===========================================================================
� Early Bond reviews would make Moneypenny proud
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Jolie says has no plans to marry Pitt

� Lohan says she's attending AA meetings

� George Clooney campaigns in Egypt, China

� Vince Vaughn caught in romp before break-up

� Pitt, Jolie spend Thanksgiving in Vietnam





Today's Top News




� Ageing population tests social security

� China rejects US trade complaints

� Ample food reserves to feed market

� Fees waived for 150 million rural kids

� Steady food price rises prompt watch on inflation





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese, Chinese language, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Learning Mandarin - Electric door guard sparks debate

CITYLIFE / Hip & New






Electric door guard sparks debate

(CRI)
Updated: 2006-11-23 09:35


The electric door guard has replaced the traditional "door lady" in a
dormitory at Shanghai Songjiang University City, within the range of many
universities.

In the future, more electric door guards will take the place of "door
ladies."

The electric door guard operates under an IC card system, with students
using IC cards to enter. Each resident student is issued an IC card with
his/her personal information stored on it. Information like the
card-holding student's name, major, grade, and even time of entry will be
stored on their IC card. The door has also been equipped with a "digital
eye" to take video 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

With the new "door guard" already on duty, students began to discuss the
pros and cons of the latest renovation to their dorm in community forums.

Some complained that having to take their IC card everywhere is
inconvenient, adding that the system is not always reliable. They noted
times when the system failed to recognize them and they had to call
repair workers to fix it.

Others say the former "door lady" was more flexible and gave them a sense
of "home." Sometimes when a student had to stay out late, to study or for
other business, the door lady would wait for them and let them in if they
told her beforehand. Or when students' parents came to visit, the door
lady would let them in. But now, all of these conveniences seem
impossible.

Still, students admit that the electric door guard is much safer, as it
prevents thieves as well as unwelcome salesmen from entering their dorm.
In this way, the electric door guard has its own advantages.

The school's authorities say the new system needs some time to improve
and that students need time to get used to it. The school has said it
will consider the inconveniences brought along with the new door guard
and attempt to solve them by other means. On the whole, the new system
seems to be good for students living in the dorm building.










Feature




Pilgrimage to Tibet If you want to get a detailed Travel Handbook to
Tibet and know more interesting tour routes leading to this divine place.
Please click here!

Yunnan New Film Project Ten female directors from China! Ten unique
sights from mysterious Yunnan Province!Yunnan New Film Project,Travel
with the film.Wanna know more? Please click here!




Editors' Picks




� DIY your blog

� Giving thanks for all blessings

� Warming up to winter wear

� The business of relaxation

� A world of Ipod





Beijing Guide




Eating out: No ordinary buffet
Bars&Cafes: Rest both body and heart
Weekend&Holiday: Happy 'Thanksgifting'
Shopping: Discounts and bargains
What's on: Tsai Chin vocal concert







Shanghai Guide


Eating out: The morning of Shanghai
Bars&Cafes: Welcome to the Anticlub
Weekend&Holiday: New York loft apartment
Shopping: Brand among the brandless
What's on: Irish quartet comes to Shanghai





Learn Chinese, Chinese Online Class, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

HSK - Jolie and Pitt decide not to adopt baby

ENTERTAINMENT / Gossip






Jolie and Pitt decide not to adopt baby

(andPOP)
Updated: 2006-11-08 09:34


Hollywood's hottest philanthropic couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt
won't adopt a baby from India.

Unconfirmed reports say the reason is attributed to the whirlwind of
controversy surrounding Madonna when she filed to adopt a 13-month
Malawian boy named David.

Angelina and Brad recently visited the Priya Darshini orphanage,
generating talk that the two would once again adopt.

Reports also indicated they even thought of a name, India, to honour the
child��s birthplace.

Brangelina have a baby daughter Shiloh and two adopted children,
five-year-old Cambodian Maddox and 22-months-old Ethiopian Zahara.








Related Stories



� Cambodian charity threatens Jolie with lawsuit
===========================================================================
� Brad Pitt unhappy as Vanity Fair splashes semi-naked photos
===========================================================================
� Angelina Jolie's al-Qaeda fear
===========================================================================
� Gwyneth Paltrow moved by Brad Pitt's Oscar-winning performance in Babel
===========================================================================
� Sexiest Man Alive? Brad Pitt a wedgie joker on the set of new pic
"Babel"
===========================================================================










Top Entertaiment News




� Britney's crotch shots take Web by storm

� Kevin Federline cheats on Britney Spears with exotic dancer

� Nicole Kidman tops highest-paid actress list

� Court allows challenge to Madonna adoption

� Pitt, Jolie spend Thanksgiving in Vietnam





Today's Top News




� College students keen on army stint

� Beijing seeks better cross-Straits travel

� Bloggers must soon give real names

� Affordable tickets for Beijing Games

� Beijing unveils ticketing scheme for 2008 Olympics





Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Learn Chinese online, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet

Chinese Speaking - Match date means Becks will miss Cruise

ENTERTAINMENT / Gossip










Match date means Becks will miss Cruise


(breakingnews.ie)
Updated: 2006-10-30 13:47





David Beckham is devastated after soccer bosses told him he will be
unable to attend the wedding of his friends Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.

The Real Madrid ace is due to play the day after Cruise and Holmes tie
the knot in Italy next month.

But Beckham has been told he will have to remain in Spain.

















Most Commented/Read Stories in 48 Hours








Today's Top News




� Nigerian plane crash kills 99, Muslim leader dies

� 'China needs to play bigger WTO role'

� Reserves set to surpass US$1 trillion

� US army monitors soldiers' blogs

� 98 feared dead in Nigerian plane crash





Top Entertaiment News




� Nicole Kidman has no hard feelings towards Tom Cruis

� Michael Jackson to appear at awards show

� Simpson developes her photography skills in London

� Shakira and De La Rua 'waiting to wed'

� Nicole Kidman's dad helping her through hubby's rehab battle








Alibaba is the largest B2B marketplace in the world. Source model ship,
wooden puzzle, one-piece toilet, RC hovercraft, photo album, prom dress,
pocket bike, Vaginal Speculum, Samurai Sword, String Panty and PVC Pipe.





Learn Chinese, Chinese Mandarin, Learning Materials, Mandarin audio lessons, Chinese writing lessons, Chinese vocabulary lists, About chinese characters, News in Chinese, Go to China, Travel to China, Study in China, Teach in China, Dictionaries, Learn Chinese Painting, Your name in Chinese, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese songs, Chinese proverbs, Chinese poetry, Chinese tattoo, Beijing 2008 Olympics, Mandarin Phrasebook, Chinese editor, Pinyin editor, China Travel, Travel to Beijing, Travel to Tibet