Shanghai Expo Excursions Offer an Escape from the Bustling City Fair

BEIJING, July 1 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- With travelers flocking to Shanghai this summer season for Expo 2010, the city sights will be experiencing higher than normal volumes. The China Guide ( http://www.TheChinaGuide.com ), a trend-focused travel company, is recommending an off-the-beaten-path side trip from the bustling city in between Expo visits. Tongli Water Town is an old style Chinese village referred to as the Venice of the East, prefect for an overnight or day escape.

Tongli Water Town is famous for its twisting water canals and folk culture. The town offers a quaint setting and although not very big, travelers can still get lost in the many small streets while exploring the town's offerings. Travelers can stroll the neighborhood, shop for handmade souvenirs and stop for lunch canal side, watching the boats drift past. "Our Tongli trip includes a boat ride in a traditional style wooden boat that lets guests explore and photograph the beautiful scenery and historic stone arch bridges," says Peter Danford, Operating Director of The China Guide. "It is a genuine village and guests can see into people's homes and lives as you pass by, a welcome change from the crowded Expo site."

Tongli also offers a unique site, The Chinese Sex Museum. Tasteful artifacts are on display dating back to 3000 B.C. and showcase a less talked about side of Chinese history.

This charming water town is about 40 minutes outside of Shanghai and can be visited as a day trip or an overnight getaway; there is a pleasant traditional style courtyard hotel. The China Guide's Expo excursions will include transportation to and from Shanghai, private guide, meals and accommodation if overnighting.

For Tongli photographs, visit:

http://TheChinaGuide.com/suzhou/#id=Water_Town_Tongli_Hotel&num=1

The China Guide

The China Guide, http://www.TheChinaGuide.com , is a Beijing based travel agency, American owned and operated. Specializing in western-style service and quality with hassle free web bookings, they work with clients to customize tours that match their travel style. Operating only in China, they have up to date knowledge and offer exciting experiences for travelers including their famous Sleep on the Great Wall tour. The China Guide avoids the common factory shopping stops that are not reflective of the true China.