There has never been a more exciting time to visit China. Economic reforms instituted in the late 1970s opened China’s borders to trade and foreign investment, resulting in an explosion of new opportunities for growth, expansion and interaction with the outside world. Evidence of these changes can be seen in the contrasts around every corner: sparkling new high rises appear almost overnight amidst traditional courtyard houses and narrow cobblestone alleys, and “yuppies” chatting on cell phones rub shoulders with older men in Mao suits on the streets of Shanghai and Beijing. China’s 1.3 billion residents account for one fifth of the world’s population, and their increasing economic prosperity is attracting foreign business and investment. It is no wonder then that Mandarin Chinese is rapidly emerging as an essential language for Westerners to learn.

Amidst all the new activity and market economy glamour, many of China’s ancient values and rituals continue to endure. China is the world’s oldest civilization, with a political history spanning more than 4,000 years. This long history has left behind a legacy of architectural wonders and unique cultural traditions that have somehow survived the regular political and ideological upheavals of the past 100 years. You will still encounter the majestic temples, opulent palaces, lush gardens, and graceful pagodas you might expect, while much of the natural landscape is still astonishingly beautiful. Go beyond the bustling urban areas and you will find misty mountain forests, breathtaking lush valleys and clear rivers dotted with charming rural villages that seem largely untouched by time.

Programs in China:

Language School