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.

According to the United Nations - World Tourism Organization data in 2008, the People's Republic of China ranked fourth among the most-visited countries in the world, with a whopping tourist arrivals pegged at 53 million. Wow! That sure is a lot of tourists, and there is in fact little surprise to that, knowing that this country has many notable natural and man-made wonders known throughout the world.

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.

The Great Wall of China is notably one of the country's landmarks. It was just recently voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This edifice has a length of 8,851.8 kilometers, which stretches from the Northeastern borders of the seaside town of Shanhaiguan to the frosty and rocky Gansu Province in the Northwest.

The Great Wall is a series of stone and earthen fortifications, which was constantly built, rebuilt and maintained between the 5th and 16th centuries to protect the country from invading Mongolians and other tribes. It also provided protection to the country's economic and cultural progress, safeguarded the Silk Route and secured the transmission of information and transportation. China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, ordered the construction of the wall and the emperors of the Ming dynasty continued and extended the wall to where it is today.

The Great Wall is not just a wall. Throughout its expanse, one could see defensive structures such as forts, passes and beacon towers which were once used to house soldiers, store grain and weapons and transmit 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 records mankind's greatest feats. Therefore, for guests to completely enjoy their tours, they should dress rightfully for the season, bring their trusty cameras, and of course, be open-minded and gracious to others. Wherever they stay, be it in Beijing hotels, pension houses or inns and accommodations from various points, this place is not to be missed, for who knows, maybe it is in here that one will find what he's been searching for. - 33385

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