Travel guide – xian

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Overview

In ancient times the city of Xi'an was a major crossroads on the trading routes from eastern China to central Asia, and the beginning point of the famed Silk Road; in recent years this 3,100 year old city that was once regarded to be on a par with Rome and Constantinople, has come back into its own as one of China's major tourist attractions. In 1974, on the city's eastern outskirts, archaeologists stumbled across a treasure trove: an army of terracotta warrior figurines in battle formation standing in underground vaults. Hailed as the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century, the terracotta warriors have brought visitors from around the world flocking to Xi'an to soak up its historical and cultural heritage, and perhaps embark on an adventure tour along the ancient silk caravan route.

Xi'an, in ancient times known as Chang'an, is situated in central China in the southern part of GuanZhong Plain in Shaanxi province, with the Qinling Mountains to the north and the Weihe River to the south.

Besides the terracotta warriors, the city has a great many historical relics of interest, having been the capital city of China through 12 dynasties during its thousands of years of development.

Climate

China covers extensive territory and has a complex topography, therefore the weather differs from region to region. The south east, below the Nanling Mountains, tends to be very wet with high temperatures all year round. In the central Yangtze and Huaihe river valleys there are four distinct seasons with very hot summers and extremely cold winters, and rain all year round. The dry north experiences a short but sunny summer, with long bitterly cold winters. The coast is humid and experiences monsoons during summer.

Health

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas. There is a risk of malaria throughout the low-lying areas of the country, and it is recommended that travellers to China seek medical advice before departure. An outbreak of meningococcal disease was reported in January 2005 from 11 cities in Anhui Province in eastern China. Meningococcal vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Anhui Province.Outbreaks of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) are officially over, but travellers are warned to remain vigilant for this viral disease. The last case occurred in April 2004. Travellers are unlikely to be affected by bird flu, but live animal markets and places where contact with live poultry is possible should be avoided. All poultry and egg dishes should also be throughly cooked. Outbreaks since November 2005 have infected several people working with poultry, some of whom have died. Altitude sickness can occur in the mountainous regions of Tibet, Qinghai, parts of Xinjiang, and western Sichuan. Outside city centres, visitors should only drink bottled water. Western-style medical centres with international staff are available in the major cities and usually accept credit cards. Health insurance is recommended.

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