Tourism in Shanghai

Abstract Tourism is one of the largest and major industries in the world. The sector has become a major source of income for numerous economies. Its significance is growing by the day. China, as the most populous country in the world, is projected to become a major market for both inbound and outbound tourists.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Tourism in Shanghai specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Consequently, Chinese authorities in the various provinces are promoting tourism in their regimes to attract both local and foreign visitors. Recently, the number of European tourists travelling to China has increased. The proposed study is an exploration of Shanghai to create a tourism experience for the European traveller. Various factors leading to this experience are analysed in the study. In addition, the factors that can facilitate more European tourists visiting Shanghai are explored. Introduction Background Information One of the major industries in the world today, and which is exhibiting considerable growth in importance, is that of tourism. The industry is a substantial source of income and employment in numerous economies worldwide. In addition, it is of social importance to many people. China currently boasts of the world’s largest population. It is predicted that the country is going to become a major source of global tourists in the 21st century. On the other hand, the country is also becoming a major tourist attraction. China’s opening up to the world in the last few decades has greatly enhanced its image as a popular tourist destination. Various Chinese cities are competing to become number one foreign tourist destinations. To this end, these cities are coming up with measures to woo more tourists. Some of these popular destinations include Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Chengdu. In the recent past, diplomatic relations between the European states (EU) and Chi na have improved. For instance, more than 50 dialogues are currently taking place between the two sides through annual summits (Pantucci 2012).Advertising Looking for dissertation on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The dialogues focus on three major pillars. The three are economic and sectoral, strategic, and people-to-people relations between the two economies (Pantucci 2012). Tourism between the two regions falls under the people-to-people diplomatic concerns. China is undertaking considerable measures to make its cities major tourist destinations for the Europeans. Shanghai, as one of the large metropolitans in China, is a very popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners. The various sites of attraction in the city create a unique tourism experience, giving the metropolis a major ranking globally. The authorities are putting in place measures to woo large numbers of tourists from Europe . Problem Statement According to Bayes (2004), Shanghai is a Chinese city with an allure of its own. It is characterised by a combination of western and local cultures. The city is sophisticated and cultured. In addition, it is emerging as a major economic powerhouse in China. Western visitors are usually amazed by its air of mystery. Some recent developments, however, threaten to jeopardise the standing of this region on the global tourist market. For example, in the recent past, China had not been very open to the world, and especially to the western countries. According to Lew and Yu (1995), before the 1970’s economic reforms, the country shunned external relations with other countries. Instead, the country focused on domestic industries, suppressing major economic relations with foreigners, including tourism engagements. The post 1978 economic reforms in China led to an open door policy, which has been a significant driver to the rapid development in the country. For inst ance, China has made considerable progress in foreign investments. The country has invested in more than 5973 enterprises outside its territories, with tourism being one of them (Lew 2001; Zhang 1995). Prior to the reforms, the country had very restrictive policies determining who entered as a tourist (Gareth Allan 2002). Until recently, language barriers made China an unpopular destination with European tourists. According to Hall and Page (2000), negative depictions of the country in the western media have also been an obstacle in wooing foreign tourists.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Tourism in Shanghai specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is a fact that some of the stories carried in foreign media outlets about this country may be right. However, some of these outlets ignore the positive aspects of the region, which reveal the attractiveness of the country to tourists from Europe. Several issues in relation to environment, pandemics, climate change, human rights, natural resources, as well as energy supplies and demand have been used to discredit China. Such coverage can and should be considered as selective. The coverage depicts China as a dangerous place, posing major threats to global environment (Tan 1986). However, since the adoption of the reforms and the open policy, China has become a major destination for global tourists, and especially Shanghai. The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) predicted that by 2020, the country would be the largest tourist destination in the world (Pantucci 2012). In addition, the country would also be among the largest in relation to overseas travel. The proposed study will explore Shanghai in order to create a tourism experience for the European travellers. The study will highlight the factors that are set to increase the number of European tourists visiting Shanghai-China. Creation of such experiences would dispel the popular notion discoura ging some European tourists from visiting China. Significance of the Research Tourism is currently recognised as the world’s largest and fastest growing industry (Cooper Wahab 2001). Although China is an emerging economy and EU a relatively developed one, both stand to gain immensely from tourism. In addition, this sector is making meaningful contributions to the development of Shanghai and EU economies. The contributions are especially apparent in foreign exchange earnings and job creation. Shanghai can further play a very significant role in wooing and convincing European tourists to come to China. Japan, Korea, USA, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are the leading sources of overseas tourists for Shanghai (World Expo 2010). The Expo further notes that tourists from Europe have increased over the years (World Expo 2010). Germany, France, and Britain were the leading origins of European tourists travelling to Shanghai. The proposed study is relevant to European and Shanghai tourism in dustries. It is important for Shanghai to create a comprehensive tourism experience for the European traveller. Knowledge on the systems of operation for the Shanghai tourism industry will be made available to the European tourist.Advertising Looking for dissertation on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Consequently, a new image of Shanghai as a choice destination will be enhanced. A popular perception of Shanghai as an exciting destination for leisure and business travellers can be enhanced through such an image. It is apparent that convincing the European tourist to venture into Shanghai requires data and resources that can be used to enhance the city’s image. The information also needs to be updated regularly to make it more relevant. Limitations and Delimitations of the Study Shanghai is a very modern city considered to be a major gateway destination in its own right. In addition to its modern infrastructure, the city has maintained most of its traditional features. Visitors have the privilege of seeing and experiencing the culture and history of China, as well as that of the city itself. The study will focus on the major attraction sites in Shanghai that can be used to create a lasting experience for any tourist. Shanghai is endowed with a number of such sites. The stud y will focus on the most popular ones. In the proposed study, European tourists are considered as individuals travelling for leisure from the EU countries. For the last thirty years, the number of European tourists to China has grown immensely. The signing of the Approved Destination Status (ADS) between China and the EU in 2004 further enhanced the prospect of more foreign tourists (Staiger 2004). Similarly, the agreement enhanced the prospects of more Chinese visiting the EU countries. The restriction of the current study on the EU countries is based on this fact. Literature Review Introduction Chapter one addressed the background to the proposed study and developed the problem statement. The current chapter will review various studies regarding Shanghai as a destination for foreign tourists. In addition, the chapter will highlight diplomatic relations between China and the EU. In addition, the major attraction sites for European tourists travelling to Shanghai will be analysed. F inally, the researcher will highlight the city’s destination management initiatives. Shanghai-China According to Bayes (2004), Shanghai is a city located on a coast. It acts as the gateway to the Yangtze River Delta, famous for its depiction of Chinese cultural and historical backgrounds. As a municipality, Shanghai is under the jurisdiction of China’s Central Government. It is also the largest trade and economic centre in the country. In addition, it has the largest port in China (World Expo 2010). Bisected by River Huangpu, Shanghai faces the East China Sea, which is a part of the Pacific Ocean. The city is the most populous metropolis in the world. As of 2013, it had a population of more than 24 million persons. The city is also a major global financial centre. Shanghai is known throughout the world due to its prosperous cosmopolitan features, which are complemented by its rich ‘humanistic’ resources (World Expo 2010). In the recent years, for instance, several modern buildings have been erected in the city. Some of these include Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theatre, Shanghai Library, and the popular Oriental Pearl Television Tower (Shanghai Jiao Tong University [SJTU] 2014). Other popular buildings include Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai City-Planning Exhibition Hall, Shanghai Circus City, and the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (SJTU 2014). The buildings, together with other oriental architectural marvels, make up some of the most scenic sites in the city. In addition, colourful festivities, such as the Shanghai China International Art Festival and Shanghai Tourism Festival, are popular. All these elements act as significant tourist attractions for both locals and foreigners. Development of Diplomatic Relations between China and EU Countries Diplomatic relations between China and the EU began more than thirty years ago. According to Dai (2006), these relations began as early as May 1975. Subsequently, by the end of the 1970s, several events in relation to these relations took place. An example is the signing of an agreement between EU and China in Brussels. Other events include visits to China by the then presidents of the European Community and European Parliament (Zhang 1995). The launch of China’s economic reforms and policies regarding opening up of the country in 1970s further strengthened the ties. EU-China bilateral ties broadened in the 1980s, covering such aspects as academic and cultural exchange (Zhang 1995). Development of scientific programmes, as well as trade ties and cooperation, also deepened. The extent of these relations can be discerned from, for instance, the establishment of a Delegation of European Commission in Beijing. The delegation was established in 1988. The relations between the two sides were, however, strained following the crackdown on students’ protests in 1989 by the government (Zhang 1995). The incident, which took place at the Tiananmen Square, prompted the European Community to freeze ties with China (Pantucci 2012). Such sanctions as arms embargo followed. The sanctions were inspired by similar actions taken by the US against China. Freezing of the EU-China relations was however short lived. As the years progressed, the importance of China as a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) became more apparent. Importance of China as a global competition frontier for the Triad Economies (Europe, US and Japan) also led to dropping of the sanctions. Three years following the massacre at Tiananmen Square, relations between China and the EU were normalised. The sanctions by the EU were dropped, with the exception of the arms embargo (Dai 2006). According to Zhang (1995), the EU-China relations have further deepened, since the 1990s. Several annual summits have been launched between the two sides, from 1998. In addition, high-profile visits between the two sides have further strengthened the relations. The two countries are finding that they are im portant to each other. The mutual feeling of importance is evident in the foreign policies relating to each other by the two sides. For instance in 2004, the EU became the largest trading partner of China (Dai 2006). On its part, China conducts significant trade volumes with the EU. For example, it was the second trading country in that year. It is thus evident that China and EU have very crucial and strong diplomatic ties, in the various social and economic aspects. Both sides benefit each other mutually. Consequently, Shanghai can seek to benefit from these relations, in furthering its tourism objectives with the EU. Major Tourist Attractions in Shanghai-China Perhaps the definition of a tourist attraction should precede creation of tourist experience in any destination of tourism. According to Wang and Pizam (2011), an attraction refers to any object, person, concept, or place that draws people so that they might have an experience. An attraction can either draw people geographic ally, or through remote electronic means as witnessed in the contemporary society. Tourism experience on the other hand can be spiritual, recreational or otherwise (Laws 1995). Shanghai as modern city has numerous attractions for leisure travellers from all walks of life. As an attraction for European tourists, various descriptions of the city make it a curiosity for leisure travellers. Bayes (2004) for instance describes the city as a mixture of both the Western and Chinese cultures. Such a description of the city enhances the perception of Shanghai as having an allure of its own. Shanghai can be regarded in tourism terms as cultured, sophisticated, and among the leading economic powerhouses of China. It is thus apparent that the city is not only a choice for leisure, but also for business travellers. Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower One of the major tourist attractions in Shanghai is the Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower. According to Eleftherios (2003), the tower is designed in a manner that it has eleven spheres (pearls), and three massive columns. Six high speed elevators built into the columns raise visitors to the viewing platform above. Although there are queues at the elevators, the viewing platform affords visitors a panoramic view of the city. The lighting of the building also presents an impressive scene. The light on the tower is alternated according to the weather pattern, controlled via a computer system (SJTU 2014). Although there are other taller buildings in the city, the tower remains a very significant tourist attraction in the city. Figure 1: Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower Source: SJTU (2014) The Bund The bund is the most famous landmark in Shanghai, regarded as a symbol of the new and the old (Eleftherios 2003). It is an imposing feature on the landscape of the country. It is four kilometres long. It stands out as one of the most important features in Shanghai. The landmark attracts both local and foreign tour ists. Earlier in the 1930s, the course of buildings constituting the bund hosted the city’s financial as well as commercial centres (Hall Page 2000). Numerous foreign banks and financial empires were hosted in the bund. Another feature is the Russian embassy in the city. It is an imposing blue structure near the bank of the river. In the colonial times both the British and the Japanese guards secured the bridge, which functioned as a boundary of territory (Zhang 1995). The western wing of the Bund is equally striking. A number of buildings with varying architectural designs are found here. For instance, Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture buildings can be seen here. The combination of these architectural marvels results to a unique boulevard, a very beautiful site for tourists. Figure 2: The Bund Source: SJTU (2014) Jade Buddha Temple Built during the era of the Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty (A.D. 1875-1909), the Jade Buddha Temple was burnt down during the early 20t h century (Zhang 1995). It was restored in 1918. The Song Dynasty architectural designs influenced the new structure. The temple is made up of different areas. One of them is the Main Hall (Zhang 1995). Today, the temple is occupied by a group of monks. In addition, the Shanghai Buddhist Instituted is housed in the shrine. A number of historical artefacts are also found in the temple. They include statues, religious scriptures, and paintings. Figure 3: The Jade Buddha Temple Source: SJTU (2014) The People’s Square It is another prominent feature in Shanghai. It is found at the centre of the city. The space occupied by the Square used to be a racing track before it was converted into a recreational feature for the larger public. The changes were carried out after the war, perhaps to cater for the rising demands for social amenities (Bayes 2004). The People’s Square is significantly different from similar features in the country. For example, most public spaces are made up of concrete. However, the People’s Square is more natural. It is made up of plants, including trees and lush bushes. In addition, the square is surrounded by marvellous buildings. The People’s Square covers an area of 140 000 square meters (Zhang 1995). At the northern end of the Square is the Municipal Government Mansion. The bureaucratic structure is, however, not accessible to members of the public. On the northwest lies the Shanghai Grand Theatre, constructed almost in entirety from glass. The Exhibition Hall for the City Planning is located on the East. The Shanghai Museum however constitutes the most impressive building located in the square (SJTU 2014). The structure is symmetrical and has a very smooth texture. The design was inspired by a traditional cooking pot. Figure 4: People’s Square Source: SJTU (2014) Yu Garden Many tourists are attracted to this feature. It is located in the south-western part of the city. It is near the Bund. Yu Garden can be described as a Chinese Disney, only that it exhibits different twists, such as being lower in quality. Yu Garden was first established by Pan Family in 1577, however it was destroyed twice in the 1800s (Zhang 1995). The Garden was however restored later. Although the garden usually has massive masses of people, visiting it while in Shanghai is worthwhile. Yu Garden occupies a strategic place in the city. The surrounding area is made up of the Old City God’s Temple, referred to as the ‘Chinese City’ during the colonial times (Zhang 1995). The area surrounding the Garden has however been recently renovated, with numerous tourist attraction shops. The small side streets and the antique market are also very attractive sites for tourists. Figure 5: Yu Garden Source: SJTU (2014) Xin Tian Di Xin Tian Di Plaza is constituted of two blocks, the North and the South (Dai 2006). The southern part of the building is made up of modern architecture. The design is accompani ed by Shikumen. Shikumen is a unique feature of Chinese architecture. It is a combination of domestic and foreign cultures. The northern part of the building is equally captivating. It also has elements of Shikumen design. It is a beautiful contrast of the rest of the building. The South block hosts a shopping, leisure and entertainment complex, covering 25 000 square meters (SJTU 2014). The South Block also has a series of international restaurants catering for the various world flavours. The same applies to the North Block. The restaurants specialise in American German, Italian, Brazilian, French, British, Japanese, and Taiwanese cuisine among others. The combination displays the international dimension of Shanghai as a tourist destination, capable for catering for a variety of foreign tourists. The dividing line between the North and South Blocks of Xin Tian Di (which is the Xingye Road), is the site of the First Congress Hall of the Chinese Communist Party (Zhang 1995). Figure 6 : Xin Tian Di Source: SJTU (2014) Destination Management in Shanghai-China The magnificent attractions in Shanghai can be used to woo the European tourist by the spectacular experience that they create. However, another important aspect to creating the desired tourism experience can be further achieved through destination management. In this case, Shanghai would be the destination. Mill and Morrison (2012) provide a working definition of destination management. Mill and Morrison (2012) regard it as the organisation of the various aspects of the destination mix. The elements constituting the mix should be in regard to a particular geographic area. In addition, these should be in relation to defined tourism plan or strategy. Destination mix elements comprises of the attractions, events and facilities within the geographic location (Morrison 2012). Others include infrastructure and transport and communication network. Destination management also comprises of branding and marketing a g iven location. The marketing is targeted at both local and international travellers. The various attraction sites, events, culture, among other aspects of Shanghai constitute the city’s destination mix elements. The destination mix of Shanghai develops the tourism experience that can attract more European tourists. The destination mix can also be regarded as the destination product, since the concepts are the same (Morrison 2012; Timothy 2001). According to Knapp and Sherwin (2005), every destination mix must exhibit at least the four products namely physical, people, packages and programs. Physical products include items such as the attractions, transportation, facilities, and infrastructure (Mill Morrison 2012). Tourists are drawn to the various attractions associated with a location, such as Shanghai. It is apparent from the major attraction sites of Shanghai that the city has impressive physical products, which it can offer to the European tourist. The modern infrastruct ure of Shanghai and the transport system supports safe and enjoyable travelling in the city (SJTU 2014). The hotel and restaurants in Shanghai meet the aspirations of the European traveller. The feature is another potential reason why the city is an emerging tourist destination. It is important to take into consideration the people element of the destination mix. To this end, the local population accommodates and entertains the foreign tourists (Morrison 2012). Local lifestyles and cultures also constitute the people aspect of the marketing mix. Shanghai city exhibits diverse cultures, from European, to Chinese. The various cultural events also indicate the awareness and appreciation of tourists by the city residents. Different combinations of packages and programs are availed to the tourist. The European traveller can purchase and use these combinations. A number of tour operators have come up with unique packages for those travelling to Shanghai city (Morrison 2012). Most of the p ackages are organised to attract different tourists. In addition, most of them are based on industry partnerships such travel and hospitality companies. The tourists can access the packages from conventional retail outlets. Such outlets include travel agents and online channels. Destination mix programs are unique. They include the various events organised for the travellers (Harris, Griffin Williams 2002; Mill Morrison 2012). The European tourists can be further drawn towards Shanghai through well designed and promoted events and festivals. Some European tourists have unique interests that should be addressed. The objective can be achieved through the use of prearranged packages. The city for instance hosts several colourful festivities such as the Shanghai China International Art Festival, and the Shanghai Tourism Festival (Lew Yu 1995). Shanghai has apparently made considerable effort in destination management, in order to become a global tourism choice, not only for the Europ eans. For instance, the city has introduced a policy allowing visitors jetting into the country to stay for three days without a visa (Tourism Review 2013). Travellers from more than 45 countries have already enjoyed the three day visa free stay in the ‘administrative area’ of Shanghai. In addition, the Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration is seeking the Central Government permission to extend the same to the cruise terminals (Tourism Review 2013). The aptness of Shanghai authorities in destination management is also apparent from the various expos held by the city such as the Shanghai 2010 world expo (Mill and Morrison 2012). Objectives of such events by the city included attracting visitors globally. The events also advance Chinese culture, in the world. It is very easy to access many ports of China from Shanghai. Consequently, local organising committee sometimes organises trips for tourists within and outside the city (Tourism Review 2013). For instance, these trips can be to the neighbouring water towns or historical cities such as Suzhou and Hangzhou. Arrangements to visit other popular tourist attraction in China can be made in Shanghai to other locations such as Hong Kong, Xian and Beijing. These cities are only two-hour flight away. Conclusion The diplomatic relations between China and the EU are apparently a stepping stone for Shanghai, in attracting more tourists from these countries. In addition, these relations have been developed for the mutual benefits of the two sides. In attracting tourists from the European countries, Shanghai offers a wide range of attractions that create a unique and lasting tourism experience. The destination management initiatives of Shanghai also make the city a choice destination for European tourists in Asia. Research Methodology Introduction In chapter 2, a critical review of literature in this field was conducted. In this chapter, the design of the overall study is provided. The types of research me thods employed in the study are described. In addition, the techniques employed in the study are also elaborated in this chapter. Literature Review Collection of materials in relation to exploration of Shanghai in order to create an experience focusing on the European tourist was a relatively difficult task. Most of the literature found focused on tourism in China as a whole. In addition, materials focusing on specifically wooing the European tourists to Shanghai were even harder to come by. The literature review is majorly based on secondary materials that the author collected from libraries. In addition, online resources were extensively reviewed in order to develop a comprehensive image of Shanghai for the European tourist. Data Collection Techniques Generally, the bulk of this study is qualitative as opposed to quantitative. The title and objective of the study gives a certain orientation towards the methodology suitable for the study. Exploring Shanghai in order to create a tou rism experience for the European Tourist is the overall objective of the study. As indicated earlier, data collection is mostly based on materials collected from secondary sources in libraries and online databases. Travelling to the European countries to collect views on their perception of Shanghai as a tourist destination of choice could not be done. Consequently, primary data was collected through questionnaires mailed to several European countries. Popular tourist agencies were requested to select some of their clients, who responded to the questionnaires. The trip would be apparently very costly to the author, hence the option on the method of data collection. The author, however, made a point of touring most of Shanghai’s popular tourists’ attractions. The objective was to develop a firsthand experience, in order to enhance and compliment the information collected from the secondary sources. Data Analysis Despite of the study being qualitative, the responses from the questionnaires, as well as other secondary data need to be analysed. Consequently, the software SPSS version 10 would be used for the purpose of analysing and representing the data. SPSS refers to the Statistics Package for the Social Science. SPSS is an integrated system comprising of computer programs, used in the analysis of social data (Norman, Dale Hadlalh 1970). The system is designed in a manner that it provides social scientists with a comprehensive package. The package enables them various types of data analysis, in a very convenient and simple manner. Limitations of the Study Potential limitations to the study include: Since the research was limited to a tourism experience in Shanghai, the views represented do not necessary reflect destination China. Some of the respondents to the questionnaires might lack the specific aspect of the study which is focusing on Shanghai, and respond with a viewpoint of China as whole. The geographical area covered by the study is very large, hence become an impediment to collection of primary data in Shanghai and Europe directly by the author. Conclusion Shanghai offers a very fascinating, unique, and impressive destination for the European tourist. Traditionally, Europeans have shunned the idea of visiting this region, especially due to the distorted perceptions they had previously held about the country. It is apparent that the diplomatic relations between China and Europe are improving. Shanghai can take advantage of these developments to lure more tourists to the region. The proposed study will determine some of the factors that can increase the number of European tourists to Shanghai. References Bayes, R. 2004, ‘An economic powerhouse’, Travel Trade, vol. 1 no. 2, p.21. Cooper, C. Wahab, S. 2001, Tourism in the age of globalisation, Routledge, London. Dai, X. 2006, Understanding EU-China relations: an uncertain partnership in the making. Web. Eleftherios, A. 2003, ‘Tourism in China: reg ional distribution and economic impact’, AEEADE, vol. 3 no. 2, pp. 45-60. Gareth, S. Allan, M. 2002, Critical issues in tourism a geographical perspective, Blackwell Publishers, Inc., London, UK. Hall, C. Page, S. 2000, Tourism in South and Southeast Asia: issues and cases, Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford. Harris, R., Griffin, T. Williams, P. 2002, Sustainable tourism: a global perspective, Elsevier Science Ltd., Burlington. Knapp, D. Sherwin, G. 2005, Destination BrandScience, Destination Marketing Association International, Washington, DC. Laws, E. 1995, Tourist destination management: issues, analysis and policies, Routledge, London. Lew, A. Yu, L. 1995, Tourism in China: geographic, political and economic perspectives, Westview Press, New York. Lew, A. 2001, â€Å"Tourism development in China: the dilemma of bureaucratic decentralisation and economic liberalisation†, in D Harrison (ed), Tourism and less development world: issues and case studies, CABI Publishing , Wallingford, UK, pp. 23-32. Mill, R. Morrison, M. 2012, The tourism system, Kendall/Hunt Publishing, Dubuque, Iowa. Morrison, A. 2012, Marketing and managing tourism destinations, Routledge, London. Norman, N., Dale, H. Hadlalh, C. 1970, SPSS: Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, McGraw-Hill Book Company, New York. Pantucci, R. 2012, Diplomatic links. Europe China research and advice network. Web. Shanghai Jiao Tong University 2014, Shanghai at a glance. Web. Staiger, B. 2004, Timeline of Chinese-European cultural relations. Web. Tan, M. 1986, ‘China tourism: big growth, immediate problem’, China Reconstructs, vol. 35, no. 6, pp. 8-10. Timothy, D. 2001, Tourism and political boundaries, Routledge, London. Tourism Review 2013, Shanghai: visa-free stay luring tourists. Web. Wang, Y. Pizam, A. 2011, Destination Marketing and management: theories and applications, CABI, Wallingford. World Expo 2010, Shanghai China communication promotion plan. Web. Zhang, G. 1 995, â€Å"China’s tourism since 1978: Policies, experiences, and lessons learned†, in A Lew L Yu (eds), Tourism in China: geographic, political and economic perspectives, Westview Press, New York, pp. 49-59. This dissertation on Tourism in Shanghai was written and submitted by user Everett Cain to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Definition and importance of a tree butt

Definition and importance of a tree butt The butt of a tree is its bottom portion and this basal portion of the trunk is distinctively different from a trees branches, roots, and upper trunk.   A trees  butt is above the roots but separated from the trunk which continues upward toward the terminal bud A trees butt is often referred to by loggers as the bottom log of a felled tree. The first cut  nearly always starts at the butt or base of the tree for the initial cut. It is the most valuable part of the tree when sold and converted to a wood product A tree butt is also important when tree disease is detected at or near ground level. Butt rot diseases  are serious concerns for tree owners and tree managers. A basal rot will inevitably weaken  the tree to the point where its support system is compromised  resulting in trunk failure and the eventual death of the tree. The butt of a tree is also its most valuable section to a timber grower. If there is a defect in the butt log which by definition is the first 16 feet of a tree trunk, the trees lumber grade is diminished considerably. Butt Rot and Effects on Trees Butt rot  is a serious disease of trees and all species are susceptible to a greater or lesser degree. Fungal pathogens are the primary causal agent of butt rot  and attack the moist, vulnerable and under-protected lower portion of a tree trunk where its largest diameter is recorded. A tree is most  vulnerable to rot where the bottom end of the trunk  stem  makes contact with the  soil. The tree butts location, when diseased, can  attack the roots as well causing a disease known as  root rot. These kinds of  infections are  likely to impair the transport properties of the  xylem  tissue found in the cambial region under the tree bark. Again, it also weakens the stem and makes the plant more vulnerable to toppling. Rot in the area of the tree butt can spread to the roots and/or  move up and into the tree compartment producing a roughly conical column of dead, rotted wood which increases in size proportional to a trees age and ability to compartmentalize and stop the spread. These wood-decay diseases can start as a root or butt disease but can  overlap as both root and  stem decays. Most are caused by Basidiomycota  or fungi. They may get in through wounds in the lower part of the tree or penetrate roots directly. Understanding a Butt Log and Its Quality The highest quality logs typically  come from the first or lowest section  called the butt log by timber harvesters. The butt log is where the best, highest quality wood veneer and lumber is found. Wood veneer (usually hardwood) that is sliced  or plywood (usually pine) that is rotary cut  command high prices. It should be noted that high-quality trees with butt log damage or disease will negatively affect what will be paid at the timber harvest time. Buyers of veneer and plywood quality wood will  require certain minimum log lengths depending on the mills operation and set up.   A  common minimum used in North America is  8 feet plus an extra 6 inches  for trim allowance. However, different veneer markets have different requirements for species, wood color and grain quality and can take logs as long as 11 feet plus 6 inches. Top grade veneer logs may have a 14-inch diameter minimum and extra prime grade  can only come from the first butt cut. What is Tree Butt Swell? All trees will have some taper but the most valuable timber tree will maintain a cylinder-like form extending up the trunk. Any extra expansion of  tree trunk butt above the normal stump flare is called butt swell and is normal in some tree species (especially trees on wet sites like cypress and tupelo gum). Sound wood within the butt swell can be used but only as non-construction materials including wood chips and specialty items. Timber cutters are  recommended to cut above the swell for construction logs. Butt swell is considered a defect for veneer logs.

Ms. Martinez Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ms. Martinez Case Study - Essay Example On first physical exam she did not bring her old medical records and patient history. Al dough the results of her examinations were all right, her physician noticed that she was due for mammogram. She had to wait next 6 weeks for it. A week after the mammogram exam, results came. Dr.McGonagl, her physician told her that examination showed abnormal findings, and that she needs to visit surgeon for biopsy. First opening with the surgeon was 9 weeks later. For that period, Ms Martinez could not sleep from worry and fear.Old mammogram findings showed that there is a possibility of abnormal findings, but no one was noticed about it, nor her, nor her primary care physician. Biopsy showed that she has unusual form of cancer which had spread on lymph nodes and that Ms Martinez has to decide which kind of surgery to have. She decided for mastectomy, but when she arrived to hospital, some important laboratory findings were missing. Surgery was almost postponed, but hospital staff tracked down the missing laboratory results. Several lymph nodes were found during mastectomy, so Ms Martinez had to visit surgeon, oncologist, radiologist, as well as her primary care physician. Six months later, another lump was found, this tim e under her arm. Often irrational and unequal, American medical care system should be, according to recommendations of Advisory Commission on Cons

Molecular Identity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Molecular Identity - Essay Example The paper, instead, expounds upon the seven cation-coupled chloride cotransporters that have been described to date with specific emphasis placed on KCC2. The cotransporter KCC2 is evident in neuronal processes with specific preference for inhibitory ones where ergic action is relevant. KCC2 action precedes the ergic one as the KCC2 action brings down the intracellular chloride concentration to optimum levels to make it possible for ergic action. The phylogenetic, molecular and structural-functional details of the cotransporters have also been provided with special emphasis on KCC2. The CAD cell line, new in studies like this, has been introduced. The cell line exhibits catecholaminergic voltage dependent currents across membranes. Specific experimentation details have not been provided. A 5708 nucleotide region of the SLC12A5 gene that encodes the KCC2 cotransporter protein was probed with two 20 bp bits, left and right primer details in Appendix, with RT-PCR analysis. The resulting 206-nucleotide insert was perfectly amplified with one complement in the RT-PCR at temperatures varying from C - C. mRNA isolated from undifferentiated and differentiated murine CAD cells were used for the analysis. Electrophoresis of the RT-PCR products through 1.5% agarose gel revealed that most of the inserts had been perfectly complemented once during the RT-PCR producing evidence that the SLC12A5 gene is present in both murine differentiated and undifferentiated CAD cells and that these cells can, thus, later be used as culture media for further study of the KCC2 cotransporter expression and molecular identity. This is of great importance to such study as a suitable cell line has been hard to find so far and the easy manner in which the gene revealed itself in this study assures that this cell line can be a very convenient medium of further such studies Contents: 1. Introduction 8-9 1.1 CAD Cells 9-10 1.2 The Cotransporters (KCC1, 2, 3 & 4) 10-11 1.3 The Electroneutral Cotransporters 11-12 1.4 Cotransporters KCC1 11-15 1.4.1 Genetic Details 1.4.2 Structure 1.4.3 Function and Location 1.5 Cotransporter KCC3 15-16 1.5.1 Genetic Details 1.5.2 Location 1.6 Cotransporter KCC4 16-17 1.6.1 Molecular Genetics with Structural Identity 1.6.2 Function and Location 1.7 Cotransporters: General Features 17 1.8 Cotransporter KCC2 17-24 1.8.1 Phylogenetics 1.8.2 Structural and Locational Implications 1.8.3 Structural and Locational Implications 1.8.4 Specific Neuronal Location 1.8.5 Regulatory Action 1.8.6 Neuron-Specificity 1.8.7 Post- and PreNatal Concentration 1.8.8 Immunohistochemical Analysis 2. Methodology 2.1 RNA Isolation Technique 24 2.2 RNA Isolation Protocol 24-27 2.3 Estimation of RNA Yield 27-29 2.3.1 Vol. Isolated RNA in Differentiated Cells 2.3.2 Vol. Isolated RNA in Undifferentiated Cells 2.4 Primer Design 29 2.5 The PCR Analysis 29-30 2.6 Gel Electrophoresis Technique 30-31 3. Results 31-41 4. Discussion 42-43 5. Conclusion 43-44 References Bibliography List of Abbreviations:- Chloride anion - GABA A type - GABA S type - Potassium cation - Sodium

The Shona People Of Zimbabwe History Essay

The Shona People Of Zimbabwe History Essay The Shona people of Zimbabwe, Mozambique and southern Zambia belonged to the Bantu. They formed almost three quarters of the population of Zimbabwe and were under British colonialism for almost a century. The Shona are one of the three major cultural groupings of mixed farmers that predominated in southern Africa. The two others are the Sotho-Tswana and Nguni. Before 1500, a Shona clan, the Rozwi established a great kingdom known to Europeans as Monomotapa which stretched from the Kalahari to the Indian Ocean and from the Limpopo to the Zambezi. By the end of the 15th century, Monomotapa broke up into several Rozwi dominated successor states that survived into the early 19th century. Shona society was founded in the Zimbabwe plateau region of South-central Africa. The original inhabitants of Zimbabwe were the Shona group called Hungwe who were conquered by another group, the Mbire. The Mbire founded the Mutapa and Rozwi Empires that were destroyed by the fleeing Nguni tribes, especially the Ndebele of Southwest Zimbabwe and the Shangane of southeast Zimbabwe during the Mfecane uprisings. The Mutapa Empire covered a substantial part of modern Zimbabwe and incorporated the whole of Mozambique, South of the Zambezi river and north of the Sabi river to the sea. Some of the tribes of modern South Africa, mostly the Venda and Lovendu originated from the Shona. Other Shona tribes include Barwe, Manyika, Ndau, Korekore, Shangwe and Guruuswa. Shona society organized many of its descent principles through men rather than women. The emergence of Shona language was probably a development of the later Iron Age. Like the Sotho-Tswana and the Nguni, the Shona belonged to the so uthern Bantu language group. Shona language (chiShona) is widely spoken in, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia and Botswana. Shona is one of the principal languages of Zimbabwe. Shona language has several dialects including Hwesa, Karanga or Chikaranga spoken in Southern Zimbabwe with subdialects of Duma, Jena, Mhari, Ngova, Venda, Nyubi and Govera; Zezuru dialect include Chizezuru, Bazezuru, Mazizuru, Vazezuru and Wazezuru that are spoken in Mashonaland and central Harare; Korekore dialect is widely spoken in northern Zimbabwe. The balanced and varied resources of the Zimbabwe plateau provided a wide range of environmental and economic factors to underpin the spectacular growth of Shona states. The Shona occupied much of the modern Zimbabwe and the area between the Sabi and Pungwe rivers and extended to the Indian Ocean in modern-day Mozambique. The Shona people migrated into the modern day Zimbabwe during the great Bantu expansion. Between 16th and 19th centuries, Shona groups, especial ly the Tsonga and Nguni lived in dense settlements. By 1800, the greater proportion of Zimbabwe and Mozambique was populated by the Shona people. The Ndebele pushed the Shona northwards before the invasion of the European settlers in the 19th century. Its probable that the Shona originated from the Congo Basin area and migrated southwards into Rhodesia at the end of the first millennium. The first stone building at Zimbabwe were the works of the Shona people. Most of the stone works on the Acropolis were constructed by them. The Shona also began to build in the valley during the 13th or 14th century. They established the Great Zimbabwe civilization with stone wall enclosures. The Great Zimbabwe was indeed a thriving center for professional masons. The word Zimbabwe is Shona term for houses of stone. This civilization developed in an area with excellent pasture for grazing, farming, hunting, mining and long-distance trading which made the Great Zimbabwe a prosperous state in the region. Possession of cattle was a symbol of power and wealth that was concentrated in the hands of those in the position of authority. The Shona set up many other states including Changamire, Mutapa and Torwa. In the 17th century, recruitment into the army was rewarded by cattle. Enlistment into the army made the ruling elite to organise raids for capturing livestock and other booties. In this process, Changamire state developed a professional standing army. Shona society enjoyed reasonable political organization in the decades that preceded European partition. It was divided into lineages and a male member belonged to the fathers lineage; a married woman joined her husbands lineage. Each lineage was symbolized by annual totem. Shona people identify themselves with clans rather than the group. Communities in turn have mixture of clans. The political economy of the Shona society was not based on an equal sharing of resources or wealth inspite of a political ideology that often claimed equality. The fundamental political issue was land. Control of land use for cultivation, game, grazing and mineral resources was the basis of power relations between the ruler and the subjects. The rulers claimed authority over land. Economically, the Shona practiced agriculture, mining and pastoralism. The most specialized sector the economy was gold-mining. Gold was important source of Shona wealth at Great Zimbabwe, but cattle continued to be the backbone of the economy. The Shona formed part of the gold trade network that reached China. The Portuguese had contacts with the Shona and established themselves in what became known as Mashonaland before they were driven out at the end of the 17th century by the Rozwi Changamire dynasty. In Central Africa, the Shona groups were the first to accept European settlement. But under the Mwene Mutapas, the Portuguese were never able to control the Shona absolutely. In the 1690s, the Changamire rulers who were successors of the Mutapa dominated a large territory and remained free from the Portuguese invasion. They controlled gold production and gold trade than other rulers in the Zambezi-Limpopo region. They constructed stone buildings and accumulated vast gold ornaments a t their capitals, Dhlodhlo and Khami. They collected tribute from their subjects and vassal states. They had over 3000 warriors and waged wars over their surroundings. Changamire state continued to expand before it was overthrown by conquerors from KwaZulu in the 1830s. In response to capitalism in southern Africa after 1870, agriculture and migrant labour further developed. Shona peasant farmers supplied white farmers in Rhodesia with variety of crops such as poko corn, millet, groundnuts, tobacco and so on. The Mwanamutapa was the first major civilization in Zimbabwe. It was founded in about 1420 among the Karanga people at the Great Zimbabwe. This empire expanded by 1440s to include all of the Zimbabwe plateau and Mozambique. By 1490, the empire split into two sectors: Changamire in the south (including the Great Zimbabwe) and Mwanamutapa in the north. The gold and ivory trade attracted Arab and Swahili traders who settled in the major towns. During this period, the Great Zimbabwe region became the wealthiest and most powerful society in southeast Africa. In the early 16th century, Portuguese traders and soldiers established contact with the empire. Following the visit of Antonio Fernandes to Mwanamutapa empire, the Portuguese became interested in controlling the hinterland gold trade. The Portuguese were interested in commercial activities. They opened up the trade routes to the gold-producing areas from the coastal areas of Sofala and Mozambique. The Portuguese used the Zambezi River as their major route to the hinterland. They founded fortified and garrison towns at Sena and Tete on the Zambezi. They took over the Swahili trading posts and established new ones in the gold bearing region at Masapa, Luanze, Dambarare, Ongoe and Maramuca. Through these efforts, they controlled substantial part of the Shona gold trade. But the Swahili traders diverted some of the gold resources to the coastal settlements north of Mozambique where they evaded the Portuguese patrol and transported gold to Arabia and/or India. Power struggle among the Mbire led to the fall of the Mutapa state and the establishment of the Rozwi Empire in the southwest of modern Zimbabwe. Between 1560 and 1561, a Portuguese Jesuit missionary, Goncalo da Silveira visited Mwanamutapa and converted many Shona including King Nogomo Mupunzagato to Christianity. In 1569, King Sebastiao of Portugal sent a thousand men under Francisco Barreto to gain control of the gold mines and explore the possibility of expelling the Swahili traders as well as securing protection for the Portuguese missionaries. The Portuguese expedition reached Zambezi and Sena but most of them were attacked by malaria. Despite their impressive military power, they were not able to exert enduring control over the Shona. When Kapararidze assumed power as the new Mwene Mutapa in 1628, he attempted to unite his kingdom and expel the Portuguese. In turn, the Portuguese supported his rival to power, Mavura and ousted Kapararidze. Mavura declared himself as a vassal o f king of Portugal but anti-European protests followed among the Shona. A Portuguese military expedition suppressed the protests and strengthened Mavuras reign. He continued to enjoy the military protection of the Portuguese but suffered from the shrinking territory and subjects. He granted Portuguese officials who commanded the forts at Sena and Tete jurisdiction over lands and the inhabitants of the areas. Private Portuguese individuals enjoyed similar privilege from Mwene Mutapa. By 1677, the Portuguese had conceived the idea of planting a colony of settlers in Shona to enhance Portuguese power. The European settlement in the Zambezi valley was affected by heavy mortality. However, some of the Portuguese and Indian settlers established families that promoted Portuguese power in east Africa before the 20th century. The Portuguese elements integrated into the local African culture but they were turbulent chiefs due to their firearms. By the mid-17th century, the beleaguered Mwanamu tapa empire was controlled by the Portuguese. In 1690, the Portuguese was deposed by the Rozwi that was formed by the re-united Shona dynasties. King Changamira of Rozwi extended his control over the mining region of Zimbabwe. Rozwi Empire came to an end due to the attacks of led by Mzilikazi and Ndebele during the Mfecane wars. In 1890, the British South Africa Company invaded the Shona territory. At this point, the Shona had weak central kingdom. The Shona, like the Ndebele lost their economic resources including land and cattle. They were subjected to forced labor. The British conquest also led to the collapse of the old political structures. The Shona were mobilized through the religious authority of a spirit called Mlimo. The Shona and Ndebele rose in rebellion against the British forces between 1896 and 1897 using guerilla tactics. After two to three years of the British South African Company rule, both the Ndebele and the Shona had grievances including confiscation of cattle, expropriation of land, compulsory labour, harsh taxation, insubordination of Africans by white officials. These were the proximate factor was the Jamesons raid which led to the African revolt. Jameson was the administrator of Mashonaland who conquered the Ndebele in 1893. The combined forces of Ndebele and Shona attacked the company. The European settlers lost about 10 per cent of their population. Unlike the Ndebele, the Shona were fragmented people. They were only united by religious institutions, especially Mwari whose shrines were located in the caves with elaborate priests and messengers. Mkwati and his followers mobilized the people that the Mwari was prepared to kill all the white settlers. The revolts started with localized resistance to Europeans and Company rule from 1891-96. The resistance of Nyandoro in the East of the Salisbu ry district in April 1896 marked the beginning of the Shona uprising. Shona revolt was influenced by the Ndebele uprising of March 1896 led by Mkwati who forged alliance between Ndebele and Shona against Europeans. Religious organizations were a reinforcing factor in the rebellion. People were mobilized through the Mwari religious cult. Shona resistance to colonial rule in the 1890s took the form of desertion from underpaid labour, abandonment of settlements due to tax and labour demand, theft, cattle maiming between 1894 and 1896. Globally, the Shona people are known for their art works: stone sculpture and mbira music. Despite the tremendous influence of western scientific worldview and Christianity, the Shona remained attached to their traditional metaphysics. The Shona are not passive assimilators of European modernity, they have fused western science with tradition to shape their African modernity. After the uprisings against European settlers were defeated, independence wars occurred in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and Mozambique in the 1960s and 1970s. Since the 19th century, the Shona have migrated to work in the South African mines. They also migrated to large industrial cities. Some were dispossessed of their land in order to allow European settlers farm. Most of the Shona were educated in Chritianity missionary schools. They also benefitted from the training in improved agriculture. Rasheed Olaniyi

Patient Plan of Care Essay

Explanation of Teamwork and Collaboration Diagram: Teamwork and Collaboration is the development of partnerships to achieve the best possible outcomes that would reflect the particular needs of the patient, family or community. This concept requires an understanding of what others have to offer. The attributes which measure whether this concept exists at an optimum level are joint responsibility for the outcomes, shared decision-making, and unity of purpose. The antecedents or circumstances that must proceed Teamwork and Collaboration for it to exist are two or more healthcare professionals or nurse and patient, open communication and information sharing, common goals, and understanding the roles. Positive or negative outcomes result from the quality of Teamwork and Collaboration. Negative consequences which occur due to lack of Teamwork and Collaboration  would include bullying, poor retention, nurses leaving the profession, negative effects on the quality of patient care, safety issues, and unresolved conflict. Positive consequences are events or outcomes that occur due to proper functioning of the concept include good retention, job satisfaction, and quality of patient care and safety. Interrelated concepts are concepts which can affect change in Teamwork and Collaboration, these are concepts which work together to ensure a positive process and concepts which if depleted or impaired can cause a negative consequence in Teamwork and Collaboration. Concepts that are interrelated with Teamwork and Collaboration are Professionalism, Ethics, Communication, and Patient-Centered Care. The sub-concepts for Teamwork and Collaboration are components of the concept and provide good teaching points. Nursing interventions are triggered by negative consequences. At which time the antecedents are evaluated and nursing care is directed toward improving the antecedents which should increase the quality of attributes and thereby decrease negative consequences.

Curling Up with a Book

Curling up with a book requests time and solitude, demands our full attention and requires us to get into the reading. First of all, in order to curl up with a book, one should be isolated in his/her free time when there are no disturbances at all. It's necessary to read in your free time because It Is the time when you have nothing on mind. This Is very helpful since our mind would be empty of Issues and worries of our dally life. It also needs a comfortable place and environment to be able to focus on the reading; It Is necessary to be alone when It comes for reading.It has happened to me that I can't read anything in the college because there have been a lot of distractions; for example, the noisy atmosphere, electronic devises, too many people walking by and others. I'd rather wait until I arrive at my house; I would immediately go to my room with no interruptions, so I can read in silence and concentrate. Carol Shields (1997) explain that being lonely is necessary when one reads . It is not something to pity about as compared when someone is eating alone in the restaurant or watching the movie alone on a Valentine's Day.Solitary reading is the first requirement to curl up with a kook: â€Å"Our hearts go out to them, but reading, by definition, can only be done alone. I would Like to make the case today for solitary time, for a life with space enough to curl up with a book† (p. 248). Then one should pay full attention on the reading. We can do multicasts In many ways, for Instance, we watched television while we are eating or we listen to music while we are solving some math problems. We can do all of this at the same time, except when we are reading.When we read, we should focus to one point and one straight line. Don't let anything that can make you lose track easily. It is not recommended to read in the Internet because it is very disturbing whereas holding a book is much more real and potent. Losing concentration is very easy in the Internet beca use someone can send you an instant message, and you might want to surf for a while in the web. However, reading a book is always better; reading can take readers to an imaginary place that the Internet can never take you.Although the Internet provides us with many deferent kind of information, reading through the website will never give us the experiences and feelings that a book can give us. For example, when we read, we are connected with he reading since we are actually touching the book; also we can easily dullness the author's perspective. Just like the author Carol Shields (1997) said that we can bytes and texts; also by reading we can find out the tone, formal order, voice and the persuasion of the reading: â€Å"A written text, as opposed to electronic information, has formal order, tone, voice, irony, persuasion.We can inhabit a book; we can possess it and be possessed by it† (p. 249). Finally when someone reads, one should be part of the reading; furthermore, someo ne can get inside the reading and experience special linings and moments along with the main character. For instance, I have experienced this when I read â€Å"I'm a Banana and Proud of It† by Ways Choc; I felt like I was in the author's position since I also look like a Chinese, but my native country is not China.Nowadays, adults are so busy that they have almost no time to think of reading a book. They have more important things to do and to worry of, especially for the people that are not wealthy. The students are also occupied in their study, and if they ever have time, they will spend it in their social life rather than staying at home to read a book. Overall, curling up with a book is like being lost in a book. In order to comprehend deeply a reading, it is essential to be lone with our blank mind, to have full concentration and to feel part of the reading.We can feel free, imagine intensely and experience something beyond the real word through reading. Everyone needs r eading in their life. It's so vital for our mind and body. Almost all the knowledge that one can get comes from reading. That is why reading is such a wonderful activity to do since it broadens our knowledge and experience. Reference Shields, C. (1997). The case for curling up with a book. In G. Disgusts & J. J. Me (Des. ) Refining reading writing. (up. 248-250). Toronto: Nelson Thomson.