Tour China? Discover Dalian.

Discover Dalian is a personalized tour and photographic service in English that introduces foreign visitors to every aspect of history and culture for this dynamic coastal city in Northeast China.

Originally established by Russia, then later occupied by Japan, Dalian has a long history as an international sea port supporting commerce and tourism from Japan, Korea, and other traditional Asian regions for over a century. However, in recent years there has been a gap in services for visitors from native English-speaking countries.

www.discoverdalian.com was created to fill this need.

Fast Fact: Dalian is the center of foreign trade in Liaoning Province as well as the second largest international commercial harbor in China. It is one of those rare cities that has the look of a major metropolitan hub, but the mindset of an island resort. Wth a mountainous panoramic beauty encircled by beaches and host to year-round festivals, the many attractions of Dalian are all just a few minutes from historic downtown.

"When you visit a new town, you call a friend living there to help show you around. This was my idea and philosophy for Discover Dalian, and my goal is to be a friend you can count on in this foreign land." - SongLi

The Discover Dalian tour collection is a revolutionary idea, offering in-depth attention and photographic services without equal from Dalian's resident foreign expert and celebrity, SongLi. His fame as the first foreigner to host the evening television news in Northeast China, and the popularity of his book "Blue Sky Red Tears" which was set during Dalian's colonial era, has brought a great deal of attention and renewed interest in the city and its role in Manchurian history.

"My service is personal, catering to the needs of my clients. That is why I do not offer tours to groups larger than four people. You will see the real side of Dalian, and I will document your adventure at every step." - SongLi

Having lived and worked in Dalian for several years, and from the extensive research needed to write his novel, SongLi has a deep affection for his adopted city. This passion can be seen in his many public and private efforts to internationally promote China's most livable city for 2005. The Dalian Municipal Government recognized his personal work when they commissioned him in 2005 as the official English voice to present the city to the WTO (World Trade Organization) meeting held in Dalian, one of China's most treasured cities.

"Dalian is growing at an unbelievable rate, and I witness it daily. I am outside all the time, regardless of season or weather, exploring the city on foot to record its history and on-going development. As an artist and photographer, I like to take the paths less traveled and at talk with real people. I want them to understand that I am not just passing through, but belong here." - SongLi

It is from this special perspective, using SongLi's own personal experiences, that Discover Dalian can offer its tailored and unique tours. It is also why Discover Dalian only uses the private photography of SongLi to show featured tour locations. Other than historical images taken decades ago, no pictures seen here have been taken from any other public or governmental source.

To view tour specials and discounts offered for this week, please visit Discover Dalian. Dalian related photographic memorabilia can also be purchased at the Discover Dalian Store.