Xiamen

Xiamen (a.k.a. Amoy or E-mng to the locals) is one Fujian province's most beautiful coastal cities. Situated at the mouth of Jiulong River, the city of Xiamen encompasses Xiamen Island, Gulangyu Islet and Tong'an County (mainland). Being one of China's first special economic zones, it is well developed in infrastructure and diverse in culture.

 

  Salty sea breezes and sunny days abound, making the city a popular tourist destination. During the summer months temperatures frequent the high thirties (around 100 ºF) driving sweaty locals and holidaymakers to the swimming beach to cool off. Although surrounded by beaches, some of Xiamen's shores tend not to be patrolled or a little grubby. Swimmers are advised to join the masses at the official swimming beaches.

 

  Aside from its generous tax-cuts for foreign investors, Xiamen is probably best known for Gulangyu, an islet accessible only by ferry located off Xiamen Island's south-western coast. Cars are forbidden on Gulangyu and foot traffic prevails, although there is a small armada of electric powered golf buggy-style vehicles on hand to whisk leg-weary or less budget conscious tourists between scenic spots.

 

  History

  Xiamen, blessed with a deep water ice and silt free port, has a long history of foreign trade. Trade with Europe first began in the mid 15th century where tea leaves were the primary export. The increase in trade relations and exposure to foreign cultures over the centuries has left its mark on Xiamen—evident today in the city's unique "Sino-Mediterranean" style architecture, local attitudes and hospitality.

 

  In the early 1980's, under the direction of Deng Xiaoping, Xiamen was designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and began a new wave of foreign trade and growth. Substantial tax cuts and other incentives lead to an influx of foreign companies and the establishment of a multitude of factories.

 

  In 1999, Xiamen "lost face" on the world stage as the largest corruption scandal in Chinese history was uncovered. Some 200 government officials and members of the local Public Security Bureau were implicated, accused of running a huge smuggling operation whose proceeds were used to fund the building of a film studio and various other constructions, finance the local football team, and invested in a brothel.

 

  Climate

  There's basically no bad time to visit Xiamen, but if you plan a dip in the South China Sea, late spring to early autumn would be the best time to visit. The climate is sub-tropical monsoon, so expect summer rains. Average annual temperature is a comfortable 21 ºC(70 ºF) with highs peaking at just a bit over 38 ºC(100 ºF) and lows at 2 ºC(36 ºF).