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• New China Opium War and Peace - Editor, 17 March 2008

History cannot repeat itself entirely in this case. It is about 200 years since European traders first landed in China. Missionaries followed soon after. Foreigners were as amazed then as they are now by the culture of China. There was the inevitable financial angle as well. Silk, spices, and tea were amongst the most wanted commodities from China. The dynasty then was as assertive as the Beijing government of today. Opium from other parts of Asia was introduced to China. It became an instrument of oppression. Decadence culminated in humiliating defeat. A once proud China had to open its ports to foreign trade. The latter was unbalanced, leaving little gain for China.

• Which Hotel to Choose for a First Visit to China - Editor, 10 March 2008

A hotel can make or break your trip to China. Vacation or business, your schedule needs a good night’s rest. Laundry, a filling breakfast, and reasonably priced telephone calls home, are other touches to keep you comfortable. Then there are emergencies. You want to be sure that the staff can get you out in case of fire. A competent doctor has to arrive quickly if you develop unbearable pain. There are loads of essential services you wish will never be needed.

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