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Today's Poll!Your Opinion: China trip prompts tourism idea
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Dear Editor:
I am writing this letter fresh “off the bus,” having returned from Beijing, China, on a tour sponsored by the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce through Midwest Travel Consultants.
In addition to visiting the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace and many other tourist attractions, we engaged in “cultural tourism.” We had a meal in a Chinese family’s home. We interacted with the people.
The purpose of this letter is to point toward possibilities for the City of Jefferson in “cultural tourism” and beyond. Our Beijing tour guide was Nancy Hu, provided by Collette Vacations out of Pawtucket, RI. Hu had studied for four years in the Beijing Institute of Tourism. Her English was excellent, as was her knowledge of China.
The City of Jefferson can create a “Missouri Institute of Tourism.” We can do this in cooperation with Lincoln University and other entities. We can learn from the Chinese. The Chinese can learn from us.
“Business bus stops” were part of our tour. At a cloisonné factory, we observed the manufacturing process. We had an opportunity to buy. A lunch stop was part of many tour stops.
In the City of Jefferson we have many unique small businesses. Imagine tour buses pulling up to these sites. The visitors could receive education about processes. Perhaps it could be a lunch stop. They would have an opportunity to buy.
I thank the many people and organizations who made this tour possible. I am especially thankful to be back home in the City of Jefferson.
Marry Me
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