Exotic China: Beijing and Beyond

July/August Issue As the world turns its attention towards China for the 2008 Summer Olympics, AAA Going Places magazine explores one of the world’s most mysterious and fascinating travel destinations.

Filled with great photography, captivating narrative and practical travel information, this special issue of Going Places will expose you to life and travel in modern Beijing, the ancient cultures of China’s Silk Road and mythical Tibet through the personal experience of award-winning photographer, travel writer and Going Places editor David Noyes.


online edition

AAA Photojournalist Visits China's Olympic City
david noyes Going Places editor and photographer, David Noyes, was recently invited to join nine other photographers from around the world to participate in the “Olympic City Photo Shoot” in Beijing. These 10 international photographers spent six days working in Beijing to capture a modern portrait of China’s capital city.

"Beijing in the Third Eye" - China Travel Channel Documentary
In Beijing, Noyes was also followed by a crew from China’s Travel Channel for an hour-long documentary that will air to a Chinese audience of 30 million in August during the 2008 Summer Games.

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Going Places Featured Articles
Beijing 2008: Awakening the Dragon
For years, Beijing has prepared for one particular day in 2008. Consistent with Chinese mythology, the eighth day of the eighth month of the eighth year of the new millennium is an auspicious day for the world to be introduced to a new China. Learn about China’s capital city as it prepares to host the 2008 Olympic Games.
China’s New Silk Road
While the Silk Road remains a symbolic representation of the interconnectedness of multi-ethnic and multi-national cultures, it is easy to forget that China’s legendary oases are still home to a vibrant community of people caught between their ancient traditions and modern aspirations.
The Lure of Tibet
“I came to Tibet to see for myself if the magical place of my imagination, filled with ancient rituals, cloistered communities and an indigenous culture that celebrated a profound spirituality, still existed on the roof of the world.”

Where Next for Helen Bingo?
Now in her mid-80s, Helen Bingo was recently inducted into the Travelers’ Century Club, an organization that celebrates travelers who have visited 100 or more countries. As she prepares for another international adventure this fall, see the list of the countries she’s visited so far.
Going Places Featured China Itineraries

China to Tibet By Rail
Our 13-day small-group escorted tour in China and Tibet includes Beijing, Xian, Lhasa and the highest train in the world. Includes 24 meals, sightseeing and internal flights.


Yunnan & Tibet
Southwest China is a region of stunning landscapes, remote villages rich with ethnic traditions and ancient towns. Then travel on to Lhasa, Tibet, and discover the beauty and deep spirituality of this mountain land.


The Silk Road
Journey deep into remote western China to explore magnificent vistas, ancient ruins and colorful history along the legendary Silk Road. Travel to Dunhuang, Turpan and Urumqi, where you’ll see the Flaming Mountains and Heavenly Lake.


Discover Beijing
Experience the best of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Savor authentic Chinese dishes and learn to prepare them for yourself during a visit to the home of a local family! An unforgettable highlight will be kite flying on the Great Wall.