The Impact of the Great Wall of China to Beijing Hotels

Tourism in the world is indeed a sector which is remarkably improving. Citizens of differing nationalities start to think outside the box, and they have found out that there is more to see internationally. This has resulted to a positive growth in the hotel and restaurant businesses the world over.

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 is one of the most famous landmarks in the country. Just a year ago, it was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Stretching from the Northeastern shores of the seaside town of Shanhaiguan to the cold and mountainous Gansu Province in the Northwest, this structure spans 8,851.8 kilometers.

As a series of stone and earthen fortifications, the Great Wall was constantly built, rebuilt and maintained between the 5th and 16th centuries to shelter the nation from invading Mongolians and other tribes. It also helped sustain the country's economic and cultural progress, safeguarded the Silk Route and secured the spread of information and transportation. China's foremost emperor, Qin Shi Huang, ordered the construction of the wall and the succeeding rulers of the Ming dynasty sustained and extended the wall to where it is today.

The Great Wall is not just a wall. Throughout its area, one could see defensive structures such as forts, passes and beacon towers which were once used to house soldiers, store grain and weapons and pass on military information.

Even though the Great Wall can be cherished throughout the year, the greatest time to visit the place is during the seasons of spring and autumn, primarily to avoid many crowds. During spring, where everything looks fresh, the blooming flowers and the lush greenery would excite each visitor. In the winter, when it is chilly, the mountains and the wall itself are covered with snow. This is a good time for one to see the entirety of the wall. When in Beijing, the wall can be mostly accessible in the area of Badaling, which is about 65 minutes' drive by bus. Also, some of the nearer sites are the wall in Mutianyu and Jinshanling. Due to the tourist-friendly itineraries of Beijing hotels, travelling to the wall is never a hassle.

The Great Wall of China is one of mankind's best achievements. That is why for transients to completely enjoy their tours, they should dress suitably for the season, bring their versatile cameras, and of course, they must be open and friendly to co-travelers. Wherever they stay, be it in Beijing hotels or in any accommodations from other neighboring areas, one must take time to visit this wonder and who knows, maybe it is in here that he will find what he desires the most.

Author E. Larson is a long-time resident of Beijing, China. He works closely with the Henan Plaza Beijing and many other hotels in Beijing. Learn even more about the Henan Plaza Beijing here.