Have you ever dreamt of sunbathing on a tropical beach right after skiing down a snow－covered mountain? Have you ever wanted to appreciate the thrill of a bullfight or the artistic vision of Picasso's paintings? If the answer's "yes", then look no further than Andalucia. On Feb.16, officials from the popular Spanish region arrived in Beijing, hoping to entice more Chinese tourists back to their homeland.
With the swirling skirts, the melodious music and the captivating rhythms, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a Spanish street carnival, but this was, in fact, a display of traditional flamenco dancing right here in Beijing.
Andalucia, one of Spain's largest autonomous regions, plays a vital role in Europe's tourism industry, bringing in planeloads of travelers and their pesetas every year. Made-up of eight provinces, it boasts a rich and diverse history together with a mind-boggling selection of cuisine, climates and customs to choose from.
The visit by Andalucian officials is the biggest-ever European tourist promotion in China and comes just days after the signing of a key agreement with the EU last week.
Besides enjoying the performances, Chinese visitors to the promotion were also given a detailed introduction to the resources available to them in Andalucia. Judging by appearances, everyone was understandably bewitched by the irresistible prospect of sun, song and sherry.
While some Chinese travelers are already planning their holidays, others are getting into the Latin spirit here in Beijing, signing up for flamenco classes, as well as other cultural activities. If all goes according to plan, sunny Spain may well be the hottest new thing.
(CCTV.com February 19, 2004)
