Since 2001, UCLA has been part of the
Silk Road to the Future, a project which brings hundreds
of American based students, staff and faculty to Beijing
to interact with their counterparts from Chinese universities.
A nonprofit organization called Legends
of China spearheads this project with the hopes of promoting
cross-cultural exchange and developing intercultural friendships
to prepare our countries for the upcoming Olymics taking
place in Beijing in 2008. Participants in this trip are
thus dubbed “peace ambassadors” as they set
off to China to make new friends and experience the beauty
and richness of Chinese culture. Trip itineraries take visitors
to ancient and historical sites as they explore ancient
temples, the Forbidden City, Tiananment Square and the Great
Wall of China. They take a glimpse into Chinese culture
as they learn how silk fabric, silk rugs, jade artifacts
and pearl jewelry are processed and traditionally made. Students both from China and US are required
to create artwork representing peace on silk fabric provided
by Legends of China. All other participants are also encouraged
to submit their own creations. All silk pieces collected
from all trips taking place between 2001 and 2008 to create
a magnificent banner 10,000 meter to be presented at the
Beijing Olympics in 2008.
Legends of China coordinates this trip
to ensure that all participants have a wonderful and unique
experience in China. Traditional ten-course meals are served
to participants at fine restaurants on a daily basis and
accommodations are at 4 & 5 star hotels. Comfortable
charter busses take visitors through the busy boulevards
of Beijing or the scenic countryside en route to the more
rustic provinces of China.
This trip will be offered once again to
UCLA students, staff and faculty. Please attend the information
meetings to find out more about this once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity.
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