Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La

“Representing the meticulous and ambitious work of an all-Chinese film company led by award-winning filmmaker, Xi Zhinong, this spectacular film is the true story of a family of Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys living in the highest forests in the world. Only recently discovered, snub-nosed monkeys are hauntingly beautiful primates, different and gentler than others of their kind. Elfin-like, they seem both childlike and wise beyond their years. The family is led by a formidable fighter and his fighting force who guard a troop of 8-10 families. This is a unique monkey society, formed in response to the hardships of the Himalayas. But their survival depends not just upon strong defensive strategies; it also relies upon the cooperation and interdependence of them all.”

Travel Through Time at the Forbidden City

Chengdu: Beyond Pandas—A Foodie’s Fantasy

Chengdu Tea House

Chengdu Tea House

China today arguably produces the finest cuisine in the world. Given the country’s stratospheric economic rise and the emergence of a fun-loving middle class, the special dining experience is prized in Chinese society more than ever before. A good time in China means nothing if not “to eat well.”

In particular the cuisine of China’s Sichuan province, in the southwest of the country, has garnered attention and popularity across the United States and beyond. Known specifically for their liberal use of chillies and the famous mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorn, Sichuan dishes also deftly balance their spiciness with complex flavors and texture combinations. Some of the finest cuisine in China can be found in Chengdu, at the the heart of Sichuan province.

Recently dubbed by UNESCO as “City of Gastronomy”, Chengdu has also been referred to as the “new China.” The people of Chengdu’s love for food and recreation is infectious. Here, one can find flavorful and imaginative cuisine, the most luxurious spas and resorts, booming modern industry, ancient culture, and the beauty of nature, while leaving behind the crowds and congestion of its larger counterparts. Chengdu is a wonderland for the curious traveler and food enthusiasts alike. Check out the recently published article: Capital of Heat in Saveur Magazine for some captivating photos and insights into the culture and cuisine of Chengdu. Or bring a little taste of Chengdu to your home and try out these recipes for Ma Po Tofu or Sichuan Fried Eggplant.

Ma Po Tofu

Ma Po Tofu

Travel Through Time at the Forbidden City

Burma’s “Golden Pond”

China Advocates Develops Operations in Myanmar (Burma)

Burma golden pagoda

China Advocates is now working with the top operations team and best guides in Myanmar. Let China Advocates craft a magical journey through Myanmar for you or your group. Explore a land and people authentic and unfettered by tourism and outside influence.

Of course, no visit to Burma is complete without visiting the legendary, shimmering Golden Pagoda, the most sacred of all Burmese pagodas and the most opulent: it’s said to be built atop a 44-cubic meter pool filled with jewels.

Burma’s abundance of precious stones and metals are on display here, and you’ll be awestruck by the tens of thousands of gold plates, bars, and diamonds, the largest of which is an impressive 72 carats.

Built over 2,000 years ago, the pagoda, or the Shwedagon, carries great significance in the history of Buddhism. It is said that two merchant brothers traveling for trade met the Gautama Buddha on their journey and were gifted eight strands of his hair. The brothers brought the hairs back to their king, who ordered them enshrined, along with relics from three previous Buddhas—and so the Golden Pagoda was built. The hairs of the Buddha are supposedly held on a golden ship set atop the pool of jewels that lies beneath the pagoda.