Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations in China

The International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP) Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations in China will provide you with access to the people, places and perspectives at the center of China’s evolving role as one of the world’s true political superpowers.

Through special access to government officials and foreign policy experts, engaging activities, group discussions and immersion in the sights, sounds, people and places that make up this exotic and historic land, you will return with not only a new perspective on China, but also on the future of international relations - and the role you want to play in it.

Dates & Schedule:

Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations
China 2013

Click here to see a full sample schedule

Tuition and Pricing Info:
2013 Program Pricing
Diplomacy – China
Tuition: $3,299
Optional Extension: $1,450

Notes: Dates are in LOCAL DESTINATION TIME
There are two sessions of this Delegation in China.

SESSION 1

Core Program

Program Start/Arrival Date: Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Arrival City: Beijing (Airport code: PEK)

Core Program End Date: Friday, June 7, 2013
Core Program Departure City: Shanghai (Airport Code: PVG)

Optional Extension*

*For students participating in the Optional Extension, one-way airfare between Shanghai and Hong Kong is included in the package price. Return airfare from Hong Kong to scholar’s final destination is not included.

Optional Extension Departure Date: Monday, June 10, 2013
Optional Extension Departure City: Hong Kong (Airport Code: HKG)

SESSION 2

Core Program

Program Start/Arrival Date: Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Arrival City: Beijing (Airport code: PEK)

Core Program End Date: Friday, June 14, 2013
Core Program Departure City: Shanghai (Airport Code: PVG)

Optional Extension*

Optional Extension Departure Date: Monday, June 17, 2013
Optional Extension Departure City: Hong Kong (Airport Code: HKG)

FAQ:

FAQ

ELIGIBILITY AND NOMINATION
DAILY LIFE
CAREER AND ACADEMIC BENEFITS
TUITION AND FINANCES
TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION
SPECIAL NEEDS

Eligibility and Nomination
Who participates in the International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP)?

While the honor of being a Scholar Laureate is a singular one, you will find our delegations are incredibly diverse in the age and level of academic studies of each participant. That said, your fellow Scholar Laureates will have some things in common. All of you have strong academic records and leadership skills. Also, everyone must be at least 18 years old at the time of the Program and currently enrolled in a college or university as an undergraduate or graduate student or be a recent graduate from the class of 2013. All scholars must speak fluent English.

How are scholars nominated to attend?

Scholars come to the attention of ISLP and are considered for nomination thanks to the input of a variety of sources, including:

Educators, student organization advisors and participating institutions
Alumni of previous ISLP delegations
Alumni of National Youth Leadership Forums
Alumni of Congressional Youth Leadership Council Conferences
Members of Golden Key International Honour Society
Members of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)
Members of Phi Delta Epsilon International Medical Fraternity
Members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Scholarship and financial aid services where students make their information available to colleges, universities and other approved educational organizations
Self nominations with a record of academic excellence and leadership experience

Is there a way for a non-nominated scholar to be considered for nomination?

If you have not been nominated but believe you would benefit from the experience, do not hesitate to contact us and we will be pleased to send you self nomination information.

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Daily Life
Who facilitates the programs?

Your delegation will be led by Faculty Advisors who are knowledgeable professionals with experience in the corresponding career field of their delegation. Your Faculty Advisor will be responsible for implementing the curriculum, facilitating your briefings, debriefings and small group discussions, participating in all scheduled activities and supervising Program scholars. ISLP also enlists in-country travel managers who function as guides, interpreters and points of contact in your host country. You can expect a scholar to staff ratio of 40 to 1 or less.

What is a typical day like?

Your typical day will begin with a group meeting and briefing session on the day’s scheduled events. While no two days are the same for any program, you will find almost all involve a mix of educational and cultural activities. Educational components may include distinguished speakers, panel discussions, group meetings and university and professional site visits. Free time is also built into the schedule for scholars to explore their host countries independently.

How many people make up a delegation?

Depending on the restrictions of the individual program site, you will have between 30 and 120 scholars in your delegation who will be part of a larger Program of students.

Is there anything I should do to prepare for my delegation?

Overall, you should do what you probably do anyway – keep up-to-date on current events and trends in your field of study through print and online media. You may also want to mention your upcoming experience to your professors or other advisors as they can often provide insights into areas that might be of special interest or importance to your career goals. Also, while we do not expect you to know everything about your host country in the weeks or months before your trip, we do believe that the more familiar you are with your destination’s culture and customs before you arrive, the more you will gain while you are there.

Keep in mind that once you are enrolled, you will receive further resources on the country you will be visiting as well as information to help prepare for the Program. This information will cover travel logistics, destination information and academic preparation materials.

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Career and Academic Benefits
How will this help me achieve my career goals?

Each of our career-focused delegations is designed to be a growth opportunity that will further your knowledge of and perspectives on your chosen field through personal and professional enrichment. Previous scholars have found the Program to be an incredible stepping stone to further develop particular interests in their field of study and to enhance their professional and academic résumé.

Can I receive college credit for the Program?

The International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP) has partnered with nationally ranked George Mason University to offer college credit to any student who takes part in one of our international delegations. George Mason University has been recognized for three years by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 10 "Universities to Watch" in the United States! Click here for more information.

What are some of the benefits of the Program?

International educational experiences such as ISLP provide global networking opportunities and insight into career fields. We are also more than happy to provide you with letters of participation that you may include in your applications for graduate programs, internships, jobs, scholarships, etc.

Equally important, ISLP safely exposes scholars to the ins and outs of navigating foreign cultures, the complexity of travel logistics and the myriad of other skills necessary to travel and compete in an increasingly connected global economy.

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Tuition and Finances
How much is tuition?

What does the tuition cover?

Below is a list of general items covered by tuition. For details particular to the delegation and country you are interested in, please see the “What’s Included?” tab on each country-specific delegation page.

All scheduled Program activities using air, ship, rail and chartered motor coach transportation
All accommodations (excluding laundry, telephone, etc.). Accommodations vary by country.
Curriculum materials
Meals provided during the Program vary by location.
Faculty Advisors who accompany each delegation
Full-time, professional travel managers who are fluent in English for programs outside the United States
All educational components, including speaker fees
All entrance fees for scheduled Program activities
All taxes, gratuities and tips
Basic emergency health coverage for the duration of the Program

Is financial assistance available to help pay for the tuition?

Should you require financial assistance, a special fundraising guide has been prepared to help interested scholars raise the necessary funds within their communities. We strongly encourage scholars to use this guide to fundraise and obtain sponsors to help them pay for the tuition costs associated with attending ISLP. Over two-thirds of our scholars fundraise part or all of their tuition. Click here to read through our fundraising guide and get started. Interested scholars may download the Fundraising Guide here. (Adobe Acrobat Reader required. Experiencing difficulties? E-mail us: webmaster@scholarlaureate.org). In addition, the Office of Admissions is available to support scholars in their fundraising efforts.

ISLP is also proud to offer a limited number of scholarships to members of Golden Key International Honour Society, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Phi Delta Epsilon. Please visit the Scholarships page for more information.

How much spending money should I bring?

You will need to purchase at least one meal per day (average $10-20 U.S. dollars, depending on personal choice and destination) and miscellaneous small purchases, including laundry services, internet and telephone calls as needed. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to buy souvenirs and enjoy leisure activities during scheduled free time. Once you are enrolled, we will provide additional resources on spending money and currency exchange.

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Travel and Transportation
Where will scholars reside during the Program?

Carefully selected accommodations will be used throughout the Program. These could include hotel, university or other lodgings, depending on the country. For details particular to the delegation and country you are interested in, please see the “What’s Included?” tab on each country-specific delegation page.

Can I make a roommate request?

Yes, you are free to make roommate requests after enrollment through April 1, 2013. Interested scholars should contact the Office of Admissions after they receive their confirmation of enrollment.

The application says that I am automatically enrolled in the Tuition & Travel Protection Plan. Must I enroll in this?

You are automatically enrolled in the Tuition & Travel Protection Plan. This trip cancellation insurance is recommended but may be declined by checking the appropriate box on the front of the Enrollment Application or on the Online Enrollment Form. The Tuition and Travel Protection Plan premium is nonrefundable and may not be purchased after April 2, 2013. Detailed information on the Tuition & Travel Protection Plan will be sent to you upon completion of your enrollment. For an overview of coverage, click here.

How should I plan my international transportation to and from the Program?

The International Scholar Laureate Program has partnered with Worldtek to provide air booking services for ISLP scholars. Worldtek can handle all of your domestic and international flight needs. You may also book your flight arrangements on your own through Travelocity.com, Expedia.com, etc.

To book your travel arrangements online, click here.
Contact Worldtek’s dedicated representatives and identify that you are an ISLP scholar:
     Telephone: +1 (800) 522-1733 or +1 (203) 787-6289
     Email: ISLP@WORLDTEK.COM
     Hours of Operation:
          Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time

Am I allowed to extend my stay in the destination country?

Yes. Scholars are encouraged to take part in the Optional Extensions provided by ISLP. It is a chance for scholars to discover more of their host countries. Optional Extensions for 2013 are Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef for delegations in Australia, Hong Kong for delegations in China and Los Angeles, California for the delegation in the United States of America.

Scholars may also choose to extend their stay on their own for independent exploration.

How will I travel while in the destination country?

During scheduled Program activities, travel in your host country will be by plane or private motor coach except in China where a portion of the trip may be completed by train and the United States where some of the inner city travel will be via subway.

How and when should I obtain a passport?

You do not need to have a passport before enrolling in the Program, but you will need to begin the passport application process to acquire one immediately after confirmation of enrollment. The charge for a passport and/or visas is not included in the program tuition.

For U.S. passport holders, information on how to apply for a passport can be found on the U.S. Department of State's web site: travel.state.gov/passport.

Do I need a visa to enter the host country?

A Chinese visa is required to enter China and attend the International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP) in China. Depending on your country of citizenship, a visa may also be required for you to enter Hong Kong if you choose to attend the Cultural Extension.

The cost associated with acquiring a visa is the responsibility of each scholar attending ISLP in China. Visa information must be submitted to ISLP by May 21, 2013. More information on how to submit your passport, visa and travel information will be provided post-enrollment.

U.S. Citizens
ISLP’s preferred visa service provider, PassportVisaExpress.com, will assist U.S. citizens in acquiring Chinese Travel Visas for an additional fee. U.S. citizens attending the Hong Kong Cultural Extension are not required to obtain a visa to enter Hong Kong. Scholars may also choose to obtain a visa through a Chinese Consulate or Embassy if convenient.

Non-U.S. Citizens
Please contact the Chinese Consultant or Embassy in your home country to learn about visa requirements for entering China and Hong Kong (if you choose to attend the Cultural Extension). PassportVisaExpress.com may be able to assist non-U.S. scholars living in the U.S. Please call or e-mail PassportVisaExpress.com directly for information.

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Special Needs
Will there be vegetarian options at every meal?

Vegetarians should inform ISLP of their dietary requirements prior to the start of the Program. We will ensure there are vegetarian options available, but the realities of foreign travel do mean that they are often limited. Many meals are buffet-style, and due to limitations, sometimes vegetarian options may be repeated throughout the Program.

Will there be kosher options at every meal?

Due to varying cultures in the various countries, we are not able to guarantee kosher options. However, there will always be a vegetarian option at meals. In some cases, kosher meals can be provided at an additional cost. Please contact the Office of Admissions to speak directly with a staff member for more information.

Will there be opportunities to attend any religious services?

There is time built into the schedule (day or evening) for scholars to do some independent exploration and you are free to use this time for religious purposes or other needs. However, these times do vary by day and country.

Is it possible for scholars with special needs to attend?

Yes. However, the first recommendation we would make would be that you speak directly to a staff member at our Office of Admissions to get a better idea of what potentially challenging activities your delegation might involve so that together you might make the best decision about whether or not to attend and which Program would be best for you.

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Safety & Travel:

Safety and Supervision
Should I be concerned about safety in a foreign country?

Your safety is our first priority. As a result, our programs are highly structured and thoroughly evaluated for quality and safety. We will not bring you into areas where we think your safety might be in question. If conditions exist or arise that make it impossible for us to offer a safe program, we will alter the itinerary and re-route the program to safer regions. ISLP adheres to international travel advisories issued by the U.S. State Department and the in-country U.S. Embassy. All U.S. scholars are registered with the U.S. Embassy in the destination country prior to their departure.

Do I need any immunizations?

We suggest that scholars consult the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization current recommendations regarding international travel. The most current information can be found at www.cdc.gov and www.who.int. We also recommend that you check with your physician or local health care facility to inquire about any health concerns or immunization options.

Will there be an on-site nurse?

No. You should plan to bring any medication along that you think you might need (i.e. cold medication, anti-diarrhea, fever, etc.). Of course, in the rare occurrence that you may need medical attention, we will assist you in getting to a doctor or hospital.

Will I be expected to follow rules such as curfews on the Program?

Since this is an academic program, there is an established Code of Conduct. This exists to ensure the highest level of safety, education and enjoyment for all scholars. Further, we do ask that scholars take into consideration the intense academic nature of the Program, and as a result, we expect them to be well-rested and focused during the daily program. We ask scholars to remember that they are serving as ambassadors when they visit another country. As such, it is imperative that all scholars keep in mind the importance of their conduct when traveling. Our hosts and speakers are expecting prepared, motivated and well-informed high-caliber scholars. Please refer to the Information, Release and Agreement on the back of the Enrollment Application to review the Code of Conduct, or click here to read it.

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Preparing for Travel in a Foreign Country
What assistance will be available to prepare for the Program?

Once you are enrolled, you can expect to receive communications with all the information necessary to prepare for your journey, including packing suggestions, suggested attire, currency exchange information, travel documents, academic preparation and useful travel tips.

Also, as we rely heavily on our web site to communicate important information, it would be a good idea once registered to stop by regularly to check for updates and drop by the message boards to hear the latest news.

Prior to enrollment you can also contact us by e-mail at any time at admissions@scholarlaureate.org.

What type of clothing should I bring?

For most professional activities, business casual is what you would want to wear. For example, men would feel comfortable in khakis or dress pants with a button-down shirt and women would be completely appropriate in a skirt or dress pants with a nice blouse or top. During certain program components, more professional attire may be required and during some cultural and leisure activities you may want to be more casual. Well in advance of your departure, we will get you specific details about what you should plan to pack so that you will have what you need in order to be appropriately dressed.

Are language skills going to be an issue at all?
Will there be any basic conversational language training during the Program?

While we do not expect fluency in your host country’s language or even basic proficiency, as all world travelers know, every bit of your host countries language that you do know will increase your overall experience. But again, the only language requirement is to speak fluent English and there is no language training offered during the Program. Bear in mind that each delegation will have guides fluent in the host language during all professional visits, speakers and workshops.

Will there be access to Internet?
Should I bring my cell phone or a phone card?

Each housing location will have Internet access via a business center, Wi-Fi in the lobby or in the sleeping room. Most properties now have in-room Wi-Fi available, but occasionally there may be an exception. Most properties do charge a fee to use the Internet and this fee is not included in the price of tuition. Keep this in mind if you need to use the Web during your travels. For telephone communication, most students now travel with a cell phone (check with your provider on rates as they can add up quickly) or a calling card. Another option for Internet or cell phone access is to purchase a local Wi-Fi device or local cell phone, upon arrival to your destination. More information on how to get started and researching best options can be found in the online enrollment materials.

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What's Included:

What’s Included: Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations in China

ACCOMMODATIONS
MEALS
TIPS & TAXES
STAFFING & PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
GROUP INSURANCE
VISAS Not included, information on application process provided
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation during the Program Included
How to Book Your Travel to and from the Program Extra

ACCOMMODATIONS

Hotels used during the Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations in China are modern, comfortable, well-located, air conditioned, 4 star properties with en suite bath/toilet.

Hotel for Core Program*:

BEIJING
Chang An Grand Hotel
27 Hua Wei Li
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100021 CHINA

Phone: +86 (10) 6773.1234
Fax:+86 (10) 6773.3456
www.changangrandhotel.com

XI'AN
Grand Noble Hotel
334 Dong Da Jie
Xi’an, CHINA

Phone: +86 (29) 8769.0000
Fax: +86 (29) 8769.0008
www.gnhotel.com/en/Default.aspx?ar=xa

SHANGHAI
Holiday Inn Downtown
585 Hengfeng Street
Zhabei District
Shanghai 200070 CHINA

Phone: +86 (21)6353.8008
Fax: +86 (21)6353.0671
www.shanghaihotels.holiday-inn.com

Hotel for Optional Extension to Hong Kong:

HONG KONG
Hotel Nikko Hong Kong 72 Mody Road,
Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon,
Hong Kong

Phone: +852 2739.1111
Fax:+852 2311.3122
www.hotelnikko.com.hk

*Hotel accommodations are subject to change. If changed, hotels will be replaced by accommodations equal of caliber (4 star).

MEALS

Meals during the Core Program:
Breakfast included daily
Nine additional meals (lunch or dinner)

Meals included during Optional Extension:
Breakfast included daily
Three additional meals (lunch or dinner)

TIPS & TAXES

All tips and taxes levied by hotels, restaurants and local governments are included. Additionally, tips to guides and drivers are included.

STAFFING & PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

All programs include in-country licensed travel managers and expert facilitation by trained professionals in each program’s career focus.

GROUP INSURANCE

Basic emergency health insurance is provided for the duration of the Program and is included in the Tuition.

VISAS

TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION DURING THE PROGRAM

All scheduled Program activities using air, train, ship and chartered motor coach transportation are included.

TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM THE PROGRAM DESTINATION

Airfare to and from the Program destination is not included in the cost of Tuition.

ISLP’s designated travel provider is Worldtek. Worldtek can handle all of your domestic and international flight needs. Contact Worldtek at +1(800) 522-1733 at the earliest possible date to arrange your flight plans to and from the Program.

HOW TO BOOK A SEAT ON THE GROUP FLIGHT

ISLP offers a group flight at an additional cost from a U.S. gateway city to Beijing and returning from Shanghai (or Hong Kong if you choose to attend the Optional Extension) to the same designated U.S. gateway city at the conclusion of the Program. Seats are limited, so please contact Worldtek at +1(800) 522-1733 at the earliest possible date to arrange your flight plans to and from the Program if intending to travel on the group flight. To book your travel arrangements online, click here.

We highly recommend traveling with the group if the gateway city is convenient for you.

Traveling on the Group Flight from the United States
Through Worldtek, the International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP) has secured a select number of seats on group flights that accommodate scholars attending ISLP China’s core session and the optional cultural add-on.

Benefits of Booking the Group Flights through Worldtek:

ISLP staff and local guide will greet you in the international arrivals hall in Beijing (PEK)
Worldtek is very familiar with the International Scholar Laureate Program (ISLP), the needs of our scholars and the Program schedule
Worldtek is dedicated to offering the lowest available fares with the fewest number of connections
Worldtek and ISLP staff will provide support and assistance in the event on a flight delay or description on the group flights

Contact our travel partner, Worldtek
     Telephone: +1(800) 522-1733
     Hours of Operation:
     Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time

Cultural Highlights:

Cultural Highlights:
Delegation on Business in China

Beijing
Xi'an
Shanghai
Hong Kong Optional Extension

Beijing

Cultural Excursions included in the Program:

Tian’anmen Square is the political heart of modern China. At 100 acres, it is the largest public square in the world. Known as the site of massive student protests, it is the entry point to the Forbidden City. The square features famous monuments including the Gate of Heavenly Peace and the mausoleum of former Chinese ruler Mao Zedong.

China’s former imperial palace, the Forbidden City, has been home to a long line of emperors, from Yongle in 1420 through Puyi in 1924. The political center of Chinese government for five centuries, it now houses the Palace Museum, which contains the largest collection of imperial artwork and artifacts in the country.

The Great Wall of China is the world's longest human-made structure, stretching across approximately 4,500 miles. It is a series of stone and earthen fortifications constructed and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century AD. Originally built to keep nomads out of China, it is today considered a symbol of Chinese unity and is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. The Great Wall was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

Each week, Chinese students congregate at the English Corner on the campus of Renmin University to practice their English-speaking skills. A unique opportunity to meet and interact with Chinese citizens, English Corner welcomes native English speakers to converse with the students on a variety of topics, from politics to pop culture.

The Olympic Green was developed for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. These unique new Beijing landmarks include the Laoshan Velodrome, the National Aquatics Center (“Water Cube”) and the National Stadium (“Bird’s Nest”), where the grandeur of the opening and closing ceremonies dazzled the world.

Cultural Excursions for Independent Exploration during free time (if desired, local guides will be available to facilitate individual purchase for admission):

The Temple of Heaven was built in 1420 for emperors to worship Heaven and is China’s largest complex of ancient sacrificial buildings. The main buildings include the Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Mound of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar. The temple was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.

The Summer Palace for Chinese royalty was built 800 years ago and is said to be the largest imperial garden in the world. It first opened to the public in 1911, so that visitors could enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape mingled with the stunning architecture at this ancient royal retreat.

Beijing Zoo is the largest zoo in China. Called Wanshengyuan (Ten Thousand Animal Garden) during the Qing Dynasty, it was officially renamed in 1955. Beijing Zoo currently houses over 7,000 different animals, comprising more than 600 species. Highlights for visitors are the animals native to China, including the Golden Monkey and, of course, the Giant Panda, known the world over as a Chinese national symbol.

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Xi'an

Cultural Excursions included in the Program:

One of the must-see attractions in China, the Terra Cotta Warriors, is a treasure trove of modern archaeological discovery. Originally constructed over 2,000 years ago to protect the tomb of the first Qin emperor, the warriors were uncovered in 1974 by peasant farmers building a well. Ongoing excavation of the site has revealed over 8,000 life-sized clay figures, including soldiers, charioteers, archers, generals, musicians and acrobats.

Cultural Excursions for Independent Exploration during free time:

Xi’an was originally a walled city, and the Ancient City Wall still stretches around “old” Xi’an, dividing modern Xi’an into an “inner” and “outer” city. Created in the 14th century under the Ming Dynasty, the city wall is 12 meters high and up to 18 meters thick. It contains four entrance gates and 98 ramparts, where soldiers could keep watch for approaching enemies.

The Great Mosque is one of the oldest and largest Islamic mosques in China, known for its unique blending of traditional Chinese and Muslim architecture. The mosque dates back to the mid-seventh century, when Islam was introduced to China by Arab merchants and travelers from Persia and Afghanistan. Comprised of four courtyards, the mosque holds prayer five times each day, according to Islamic tradition.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was originally built in 652 A.D. during the Tang Dynasty to protect Buddhist materials brought to China from India. It remains a holy place for Buddhists. The pagoda includes seven levels and stands over 200 feet tall. It is regarded a symbol for the city of Xi’an and provides panoramic view of the city from the top.

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Shanghai

Cultural Excursions included in the Program:

Shanghai is China’s largest city and the financial, commercial and industrial hub of the country. Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, Shanghai is well-known for its modern Pudong skyline, featuring such noted landmarks as the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.

In Shanghai, scholars will take in the thrilling spectacle of the ERA Acrobatics Show. Marvel at amazing acrobatic feats performed to original music in a show that amazes and entertains.

Cultural Excursions for Independent Exploration during free time:

Shanghai Museum is a grand collection of ancient art, containing eleven galleries and three special temporary exhibition halls. The museum, located in the People’s Square since 1996, houses approximately 120,000 works of art.

The Bund is a famous waterfront, regarded as a symbol of the city of Shanghai. At less than one mile in length, the Bund is the perfect place for a short stroll along the Hunagpu River and is packed with notable buildings, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Jin Mao Tower. The highlight of the Bund is the west side, featuring 52 buildings of varying architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance and Classicism.

Frenchtown (also known as the French Concession) is a district of Shanghai once designated as a settlement for French traders and businesspeople, and formerly overseen by the French government. Today it is a blend of east and west, an enclave of trendy cafés, shops, and European-style architecture frequented by tourists and urbanites alike.

Nanjing Lu, China’s premier shopping street, stretches from the Bund to the People’s Park in downtown Shanghai. The city’s first commercial road, it is now known as the “Oriental Paris.” Whether you’re into high-end fashion or just looking for the best bargain, you’ll find it here!

Yuyuan Garden (also known as Yu Gardens) is a classical Chinese garden was first established in 1559. The focal point is the Five-Dragon Wall, a monument to the magical creature so prevalent in Chinese legend. The wall divides the garden into six sections: the Grand Rockery, Ten-Thousand-Flower Pavilion, Hall of Heralding Spring, Hall of Jade Magnificence, Inner Garden, and Lotus Pool. The gardens are the place to go for a stroll, or just take a break from the bustling pace of the city.

The Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple that was founded in 1882 with two jade Buddha statues imported to Shanghai from Burma by sea. These were a sitting Buddha and a smaller reclining Buddha representing Buddha's death. The temple now also contains a much larger reclining Buddha made of marble, donated from Singapore, and visitors may mistake this larger sculpture for the original, smaller piece.

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Hong Kong - Optional Extension

Cultural Excursions included in the Program:

Take a peek at Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kong’s most popular attractions. Travel over 1200 feet to the summit on the Peak Tram, which pulls visitors via a steel cable up an incline of nearly 45 degrees. Once at the top of The Peak, enjoy amazing panoramic views of Hong Kong Harbour, Kowloon and the towering city skyline.

Aberdeen Fishing Village is one of Hong Kong’s oldest and widely-visited sites. Share the experience of “the boat people” who live on the hundreds of fishing junks docked in Aberdeen Harbour. Visitors can tour the fishing village via sampan, a flat-bottomed, Chinese wooden boat. The contrast of the lives of the boat people against the backdrop of Aberdeen’s modern skyline provides a striking contrast of traditional and modern life in Hong Kong.

Repulse Bay’s unique moniker comes from a 19th century battle during which the British army “repulsed” a pirate attack. In the early 20th century, the area was developed into a crescent-shaped beach. Today, it is a scenic residential area, featuring some of the most expensive real estate in Hong Kong.

Situated between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, Hong Kong Harbour (also known as Victoria Harbour) hosts thousands of sailing vessels every year. It is a popular gathering site for tourists and locals due to its central urban location.

Nathan Road is the oldest road in Kowloon, the first section of which was completed in 1861. Lined with shops and restaurants, it is one of the busiest commercial thoroughfares in Hong Kong. Each evening, Nathan Road comes alive in a colorful array of glowing neon lights.

Cultural Excursions for Independent Exploration during free time:

Kowloon Peninsula is attached to mainland China across the harbor from Hong Kong Island. Kowloon is the site of many cultural gems, including Nathan Road and myriad exotic markets.

The Hong Kong Flower Market features stalls selling a plethora of fragrant blooms. Located on Flower Market Road in Kowloon, it features flowers of all varieties in every color of the rainbow—a truly beautiful sight!

If exotic birds are more your fancy, Kowloon Bird Market is the place to be! Stroll amongst hundreds of cages displaying songbirds of all varieties. Take in the sights and sounds of this aviary wonderland, where locals will often bring their own pet birds to sing with one another.

In China, jade has often been associated with long life and good health. The Jade Market is a gathering of hundreds of stalls selling jade ornaments, pendants, bracelets, rings and other treasures.

The Ngong Ping 360 is a gondola connecting Ting Ghung, on the north coast of Lantau with the Ngong Ping area in the hills above. The peak is home to the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Giant Buddha. The 25 minute ride gives panoramic views over the North Lantau Country Park, the South China Sea and Hong Kong International Airport.

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Scholar Laureate – Delegations For Career Exploration

Michael Pinegar says:

Delegation on Diplomacy & International Relations
China 2013

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Scholar Laureate – Delegations For Career Exploration

Michael Pinegar says: